High blood pressure is a pervasive enemy that you often can't see, feel or even know you have. But it can have a significant impact on your health.
According to the American Heart Association, a blood pressure reading above 140/90 is high. Diet and exercise can reduce blood pressure, and although there are prescription medicines for it, many people prefer to try herbal alternatives.
Garlic
If your current blood pressure readings are normal, you can supplement your diet and help to stave off future problems by eating one clove of raw garlic per day, either as is or with other food.
If you have high blood pressure, consider taking a supplement that contains allicin, the ingredient in garlic that helps to lower blood pressure. The recommended dose is one 600 mg capsule four to six times a day. You should see results in about one month.
Hawthorn
Hawthorn has outstanding cardiovascular benefits that are derived from the leaves, berries and flowers of the plant. While it may take a while to work, it is often used to treat high blood pressure. A standard dose is two 500 mg. capsules or 1 tsp. of hawthorn tincture three times a day. Do not take hawthorn without medical supervision.
Reishi
Reishi is a medicinal mushroom that has shown promise for treating high blood pressure. Capsules are commonly available at health food stores and are safe to take on a long-term basis. Look for supplements that have concentrations strong enough so you are taking between 2,000 mg and 4,000 mg daily, without having to ingest too many capsules or tablets.
Motherwort
Motherwort is traditionally used in Chinese medicine to control blood pressure. It has a calming effect and can be found in most health food stores. Motherwort tincture can be taken daily on a long-term basis. Take two to three drops of the tincture daily, either as is or mixed in juice or water.
Gingko
Gingko dilates peripheral blood vessels, relieving pressure. Combining it with hawthorn makes a potent blood pressure lowering medicine. Mix 1 oz. ginkgo with 2 oz. hawthorn in a glass of water three times a day.
Warning
Always consult with your physician before embarking on any herbal treatment plan for high blood pressure.
Tags: blood pressure, blood pressure, high blood, food stores, health food, health food stores, high blood pressure