How to Reduce Your Hypertension; The Natural Approaches that REALLY work

High Blood Pressure (Hypertension)

Hypertension is one of the major medical problems of our modern age.  Hypertension is divided into two main categories--primary or essential hypertension and secondary hypertension.  Currently, 94% of all diagnosed hypertension is termed essential meaning that the underlying mechanism is unknown.  However, there is considerable research showing that a variety of genetic, nutritional and environmental factors are responsible for the condition.  In the other 6% the hypertension is secondary to another disease. 

The number of individuals with hypertension (blood pressure over 160/95 mm Hg) in the U.S.A. is estimated at 20% in the adult white population and 30% in black adults.  These values are nearly doubled if the  blood pressure reading of 140/90 mm Hg is considered the upper limit of normal.   Although behavior patterns and stress play an important part, hypertension is most closely related to dietary factors.  Hypertension is another of the many diseases or syndromes associated with the western diet, and is found almost entirely in developed countries.  People living in remote areas of China, the Solomon Islands, New Guinea, Panama, Brazil and Africa show virtually no evidence of essential hypertension, nor do they experience a rise in blood pressure with advancing age.  Furthermore, when racially identical members of these societies migrate to less remote areas and adopt a more "civilized" diet the incidence of hypertension increases dramatically.  

While many factors influence blood pressure including weight, diet, lifestyle, caffeine use, alcohol use, tobacco use, stress levels, and exercise, I'd like to focus on herbs and natural supplements that can be helpful for maintaining healthy blood pressure levels.  

HAWTHORN BERRY

Hawthorn berries are commonly used throughout Europe to their cardiovascular activity--they provide a combination of effects that are beneficial for angina and other heart problems.  Specifically, hawthorn berries reduce blood pressure and serum cholesterol levels, improve blood flow and oxygen supply to the heart, and offer significant protection against the development of atherosclerosis (hardening of the arteries).  In addition, hawthorn berries may be beneficial, either alone or in conjunction with Coenzyme Q-10, in the treatment of mild to moderate heart failure.  

OLIVE LEAF

Olive leaf extract has been shown in numerous studies to provide hypotensive (blood pressure-lowering) properties and inhibits the oxidation of LDL cholesterol, which helps to prevent the formation of plaque that can clog arteries and cause heart disease.  Clinical trials have confirmed that olive leaf extract lowers blood pressure, normalizes heart beat irregularities (arrhythmias), relieves angina pain, and enhances circulatory system function, improving blood flow in cardiovascular and peripheral vascular disorders.  In addition, researchers have determined that a bitter glucoside known as oleuropein is a powerful antioxidant and the compound responsible for olive leaf extract's ability to successfully inhibit oxidation of LDL cholesterol.  

GRAPE SEED

Grape seed extract is a rich source of plant flavonoids called proanthocyanidins.  The powerful antioxidant activity of these proanthocyanidins can cross the blood-brain barrier to protect brain cells and nerve endings against free radical damage caused by exposure to air pollution, certain carcinogenic (cancer-causing) chemicals, tobacco smoke and ultraviolet light.  In addition, double-blind research conducted in France has shown that grape seed extract strengthens capillaries and has shown good effects in the treatment of chronic venous insufficiency.  

GOLDEN ROD

Golden rod contains flavonoids and saponins that provide a diuretic action on the kidneys, promoting fluid elimination.  This action is achieved without stimulating the loss of sodium and chloride, thus golden rod is considered safer than many synthetic diuretics (prescription and over-the-counter) which promote the loss of electrolytes.  Golden rod has also demonstrated anti-inflammatory activity and is approved by the German Commission E for use as a diuretic, anti-inflammatory and mild anti-spasmodic.  In addition, golden rod is widely used in Europe to treat inflammation of the urinary tract, as well as to help prevent formation of and promote the elimination of kidney stones.  

COLEUS FORSKOHLII

Coleus Forskohlii has been used in Ayurvedic medicine for centuries as a natural remedy for heart disease.  Coleus forskohlii contains a substance known as forskolin that appears to be responsible for the herb's ability to reduce blood pressure.  Today, physicians in India use forskolin to treat angina, heart failure and hypertension.  Research shows forskolin has the potential to not only reduce both systolic and diastolic blood pressure, but also to strengthen the heart muscle, thus improving its function and enhancing blood flow throughout the body.  

L-ARGININE

L-arginine (an amino acid) has been shown in animal studies to help reduce high plasma cholesterol levels and aid in the treatment of atherosclerosis.  Arginine is a precursor to nitric oxide, which is needed by the body to keep blood vessels dilated, thus allowing the heart to receive adequate oxygen.  Arginine also appears to function as a natural blood thinner by decreasing platelet aggregation.  

VITAMIN E Vitamin E is a powerful antioxidant that protects LDL cholesterol from oxidation, which may reduce the risk of heart disease.  Studies published in the New England Journal of Medicine have shown that vitamin E supplementation can reduce the risk of heart disease by up to 41%.  Research has also found that vitamin E can reduce the risk of nonfatal heart attacks by up to 77%, according to a double-blind study published in Lancet.   

This information is not intended to prescribe or diagnose in any way.  Please consult a QUALIFIED health care professional before using any of the herbs or natural supplements mentioned above.  This information is for educational purposes only.

(This column is authored by Carol Koenigsknecht, Herbal Practitioner and owner of Terra Ken Herbals.  She is available for consultations, classes and lectures, and can be reached via her website at http://www.TerraKenHerbals.net or by phone, (706) 797-0091.  She also owns and operates Carol’s Critter Care, a pet-sitting service.)