Treating High Blood Pressure

High blood pressure is a major risk factor for a heart attack or stroke. In fact, it is generally regarded as the greatest of the risk factors for a stroke. Most people do not notice they have high blood pressure until they get their blood pressure measured.

High pressure, otherwise known as hypertension, is a disease, not just an increase in blood pressure. At least three readings should be made before the final diagnosis since fluctuations are normal. Stress, anxiety, anger and physical activity cause substantial changes in readings.

The blood pressure denotes the resistance produced each time the heart beats and sends blood coursing through the arteries. The peak reading of the pressure exerted by this contraction is the Systolic pressure. Between beats, the heart relaxes, and blood pressure drops. The lowest reading is referred to as the Diastolic pressure. A normal blood pressure reading for an adult is 120 (Systolic) / 80 (Diastolic).

High blood pressure is divided into different levels:

·       Borderline: 120-160 / 90-94;

·       Mild: 140-160 / 95-104;

·       Moderate: 140-180 / 105-114;

·       Severe: 160 + / 115 +.

Since over 80% of patients with high blood pressure are in the borderline-to-moderate range, many cases of high blood pressure can be brought under control through changes in diet and lifestyle.

By far the most common reason for high blood pressure is arteriosclerosis. Narrowed arteries plugged with fatty deposits are usually linked to poor eating habits, high levels of stress, smoking and little physical activity.

Typically, a diet rich in saturated fats, meat and refined products and lacking in fresh vegetables, fruits and fibre from whole grains is to blame. The cholesterol-free, commercial vegetable oils, shortening and margarine are no better, as these contain trans-fatty acids. Vegetarians have a lower incidence of hypertension. Obesity increases the risks. Salt, coffee, alcohol and cigarettes are not direct causes, but certainly contribute substantially to increasing blood pressure.

Next to attaining ideal body weight, the most important dietary recommendation is perhaps to increase the consumption of plant foods in the diet. Special foods for people with high blood pressure include: celery, garlic and onions, nuts and seeds or their oils, cold-water fish (salmon, mackerel, etc.), green leafy vegetables (as a rich source of calcium and magnesium), whole grains and legumes and foods rich in vitamin C, such as broccoli and citrus fruits. Eating four ribs of celery a day has been shown to reduce mild hypertension over a few months.

Stress can cause high blood pressure in many instances. Relaxation techniques, such as yoga, have been shown to have some value in lowering blood pressure.

Herbal remedies complement dietary changes in the effective treatment of high blood pressure. Hawthorn is one of the most reliable remedies for regulating high blood pressure. It dilates larger blood vessels and inhibits formation of angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE); the same way that ACE-inhibiting drugs work. Aside from its blood pressure-lowering effect, hawthorn strengthens the muscular ability of the heart and can help the body rid itself of excess fluid. Hawthorn also has the ability to un-block the arteries thus easing Angina and over time lowering blood pressure.  Take 1 teaspoon of Hawthorn tincture two to three times a day .Hawthorn can be taken along with Hypertensive drugs.

It’s always important not to ignore high blood pressure; by using natural methods, one may be able to reduce high blood pressure. But if this can’t be done, then visit your GP.

David Foley

MRCHM, MNIHM

Medical Herbalist