High blood pressure, also called hypertension is a growing problem in Pakistan. A study conducted by the National health survey of Pakistan found that 33% of adults above the age of 45 are patients with hypertension or high blood pressure. A similar study also found that 18% of all adults in Pakistan are patients with high blood pressure. Among all those diagnosed, only 12.5% were successfully treated. This low percentage is due to the delicacy of the matter. Using herbs for lowering blood pressure can greatly increase your chances of treatment.
Hypertension is called a silent killer because it can arise due to very common factors such as genetics, stress, smoking, and lack of exercises. Having high blood pressure increases the chances of a number of cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, vision problems, kidney failure and metabolic syndrome. Experts recommend changing diet and lifestyle when treating this condition.
Note
If you are thinking of using herbs for lowering blood pressure, consult your healthcare specialist first.
Implementing herbs in your diet, that have the potential for lowering blood pressure can greatly increase the chances of treatment but these herbs are better to be used alongside hypertension medication.
1. Basil Leaves
Basil leaves go well with a variety of foods and it is a herb common to most households. It contain chemical eugenol that helps relax blood vessels which leads to dropping of blood pressure. Basil leaves can be added to the diet very easily through pasta, soups, salads, and casseroles. Grind some basil leaves in lemonade for a refreshing summer drink.
2. Cinnamon
Cinnamon is another one of those herbs for lowering blood pressure. It is easy to add to your diet. Extracts from cinnamon have been known to lower sudden-onset and prolonged high blood pressure. Cinnamon powder is taste and can easily be sprinkled on a number of dishes from breakfast cereals, oatmeals to curries and stews. Cinnamon can also be added to coffee for a pleasant taste.
3. Cardamom
Cardamom is a commonly used herb in the cuisines of South Asia and the Sub-continent. A study was done on 20 people taking 1.5 grams of Cardamom powder twice a day found significant reduction in their systolic, diastolic and mean blood pressure readings. Cardamom is a herb commonly used to spice things up like soups, stew, and curries but can also be added to baked goods.
4. Garlic
Garlic truly is a herb rich in allicin which is a powerful anti-oxidizing and antibacterial agent that lowers lipid levels, reduces high blood cholesterol levels and lowers high blood pressure. In a study done the effects of garlic in improving health found that garlic is very effective in reducing blood pressure in individuals with hypertension.
Implementing fresh garlic into your diet is better than processed garlic as most of the allicin content is lost during processing. Take about 600 to 900 mg of garlic daily to reduce hypertension.
5. Hawthorn
Hawthorn is herb widely used in traditional Chinese medicines. It has a high density of flavonoids such as quercetin that increase cardiovascular health and reduce arterial blood pressure while also stimulating blood circulation. All these benefits of hawthorn help in reducing the risk of hypertension. Hawthorn is best taken as a supplement or liquid extract. It can also be added to tea.
6. Moringa Oleifera
Among other herbs for lowering blood pressure, Moringa is the best. Moringa is a miracle herb when it comes to treating a health problem. Moringa is used to treat more than 300 diseases. It is a powerhouse of nutrients, vitamins, and minerals. Vitamin E helps the heart muscle of efficiently use oxygen and moringa is an excellent source of Vitamin E. In fact, just 2 teaspoons of Moringa can fulfill 70% of your daily requirement for Vitamin E.
One added benefit of using moringa is that it is versatile in its use and can be added to almost every dish and even juices and teas. Moringa also contains power antioxidizing agents that help in purification of blood. Iron content in moringa helps increase the oxygen carrying capabilities of the blood.
