Six Simple Ways to Lower Blood Pressure Naturally
Contrary to what pharmaceutical companies and some doctors may want you to believe, it is possible to lower blood pressure naturally. Many of these simple tips have been shown to provide a variety of health benefits, in addition to controlling blood pressure levels.
Garlic: Yes, that tasty little food flavoring that so many of us love can actually help to lower blood pressure naturally. This data is backed up by seven clinical trials, of which three found a noticeable reduction in the systolic blood pressure, and four found a reduction in diastolic blood pressure. These studies found that fresh garlic, garlic powder, and garlic supplements all provided benefits. Since garlic can cause a thinning of the blood and reduce a patient’s ability to make blood clots, garlic supplements should only be taken with the advice of a physician. Patients who already take aspirin, Coumadin, vitamin E, Trental, or gingko may suffer interactions.
Fish Oil: Early research suggests that fish oil may have a positive effect on lowering blood pressure. Since fish oil supplements contain EPA (eicosapentaenoic acid), and DHA (docohexaenoic acid), evidence asserts that the DHA may help to lower blood pressure naturally.
Folic Acid: Also known as folate, folic acid is a B vitamin that is important for red blood cell formation. This vitamin has been linked to a reduction in elevated levels of homocysteine, which has been linked to lowering high blood pressure. A study of two dozen cigarette smokers found that those who took folic acid supplements for one month had a significant reduction in blood pressure.
Biofeedback: This is a technique people can learn in order to gain physical control over internal processes of the body that would otherwise be considered involuntary. These processes include functions such as heart rate, blood pressure, body temperature, and muscle tension. Biofeedback has been used successfully for a variety of medical conditions including high blood pressure, chronic pain, urinary incontinence, and headaches and migraines. There are a few different variations of biofeedback; electrodermal activity feedback uses an electrical probe that responds to perspiration, and thermal feedback which evaluates skin temperature. These two forms of biofeedback have been shown to have more of a positive effect on blood pressure than other forms of biofeedback, including electromyography (EMG), which assesses muscle tension levels.
Yoga: Yoga is a great way to lower blood pressure naturally. Since this practice promotes a mind-body connection, it is a great way to relax, relieve tension, and learn how to get in touch with internal body functions. Because yoga is an exceptional stress reducer, lower blood pressure is a further benefit.
Hawthorn: An herb, hawthorn has been used for centuries for high blood pressure by herbalists. One controlled study of seventy nine patients, who had high blood pressure as well as type 2 diabetes, were given either a placebo or 1200 mg of hawthorn extract daily for a total of 16 weeks. At the conclusion of the 16 week study, patients who were given the hawthorn extract had a noticeable mean diastolic blood pressure reduction of 2.6 mm Hg.
Traditional forms of Chinese Medicine: Chinese medicine has been used for generations as a means to lower blood pressure naturally. Since many practitioners believe high blood pressure is an issue with the body’s vital energy circulation, also known as the qi, basic treatments have been shown to be helpful. It is recommended that patients with high blood pressure take part in a combination of herb therapy and acupuncture. Chinese medicinal practitioners also recommend consuming certain foods that may have healing properties for high blood pressure including items such as: mung beans, honey, water chestnuts, hawthorn berries, turnips, and Chinese celery.
Remember, while it is possible to lower blood pressure naturally, the process may take a bit of time and dedication. Always consult with a physician or pharmacist before switching therapies to ensure there will be no interactions or complications with your medical condition.
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