Are you looking for an easy way to lower your blood pressure a few points to meet the recommendations your doctor suggested?
Maybe your blood pressure if 128/88 and you want to meet a goal of 120/80.
Almost 30% of Americans have blood pressure that is too high. High blood pressure over extended periods can increase the risk of heart failure and heart attacks.
Before starting a prescription drug have you considered adding a plant or herb to your diet to help lower blood pressure?
Herbs have been used for centuries throughout the world and here are a few that you may want to try.
- Basil – Basil extract has been shown to reduce lower blood pressure. This herb can easily be added to a variety of dishes including soups, salads, and Asian dishes.
Basil
- Cinnamon – Known to help blood sugars, the evidence suggests it may help bring blood pressure down too. Easy to add to your daily breakfast routine.
Cinnamon
- Cardamom – Used in Indian and South Asian dishes this botanical was shown in a study that when given daily for several months a significant reductions in blood pressure was observed. Great to add to spice rubs and soups.
Cardamom
- Celery seed – Seeds are often used, however, some people juice the whole plant. Celery is known to be a diuretic (i.e. cause more urination) which is why it is also popular in weight loss protocols.
Celery
- Hawthorn – Hawthorne for blood pressure can be found in Traditional Chinese Medicine with studies showing it may be effective. Hawthorne is often available as a dietary supplement liquid extract or a tea.
Hawthorn
- Lavender – Known to help people relax it may also help lower your blood pressure. This herb can be used in many baked goods similar to how rosemary is used.
Lavender
- Hibiscus – Tea and dietary supplements studies have shown this can reduce blood pressure.
Hibiscus
- Flax seed – High in omega 3 fatty acids, studies have shown this can lower blood pressure significantly. Flax seed is one of those ingredients that can be added to so many dishes after it is ground up and is a source of fiber too.
Flax seed
- Ginger – May help control blood pressure by relaxing muscle around the blood vessels. Ginger is a great addition to stir fries, soups, and vegetable dishes.
Ginger
- Garlic – help lower blood pressure by opening up your blood vessels. Taking a fresh clove and crushing it allows an enzyme to activate garlic. **Remember buying fresh garlic is better than garlic from a jar.
Garlic
Take away message: These herbs and plants can be an easy addition to your daily routine. In addition to these plants don’t forget to make lifestyle choices such as reducing stress in your life, reduce caffeine, and getting daily exercise.
His research on plant medicine has led to more than 45 publications and abstracts.This research has been presented at international meetings in the USA, France, Turkey, Peru, Israel, Austria, and Italy.
Categories: Blood Pressure, Food, Plant Medicine
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