Dear Herbalist,
What are the best herbs to take if a person has high blood pressure? I'd like to avoid taking medication, and this is the first time I've had HBP.
Curious in California
Dear Curious,
I have been receiving this question a lot. There are a number of herbs with properties that have helped with high blood pressure. In addition to avoiding salt in your diet, as well as avoiding processed foods and too much dairy, you might try:
Turmeric - traditionally used for many ailments, especially in India, this amazing East-Indian herb is found in curry dishes, but is also available in capsules. Turmeric extract contains curcumin which is a strong anti-inflammatory. Curcumin helps lower cholesterol and prevents clot formation. Its antioxidant ability improves blood flow and strengthens blood vessels. Turmeric also aids in liver metabolism.
Ginkgo Biloba - from the large tree indigenous to the mountains of China, gingko biloba improves blood circulation and dilates arteries, reducing blood pressure. Gingko also aids in improving memory and mental alertness due to increased blood flow to the brain.
Hawthorn Berry - Also known as the mayflower, hawthorn opens the coronary arteries and improves blood flow. Hawthorn berry is effective for hypertension because it reduces artery hardening and strengthens heart muscle, making it more effective in delivering blood to the body.
Olive Leaf- from the olive tree native to the Mediterranean region, olive leaf extract helps in lowering blood pressure and combats arrhythmia, or irregular heartbeat.
Best of luck to you,
The Herbalist
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