6 Herbs That Will Naturally Lower Your Blood Pressure

Many people are dealing deal with hypertension, which is also known as high blood pressure. There are many natural ways to treat the condition, including some natural medications and some lifestyle changes.

If you are thinking of trying herbs for medical reasons, whether it is the supplement or the whole herb, consult your doctor first. Some herbs, most especially in large quantities, may produce undesirable side effects or may interfere with your other medications.

Herbs to Lower Blood Pressure:

1. Basil a.k.a Scent Leaf

Basil is a delicious and nutritious herb that goes well in a variety of foods. Also, it helps lower your blood pressure. An extract of basil has been found to lower blood pressure, although only briefly.

Adding fresh basil to your meal plan is easy. Just keep a small pot of the herb in your kitchen garden and add the fresh leaves to soups, pastas, salads etc.

2. Cayenne Pepper

The main compound in cayenne pepper is a substance known as capsaicin, which is the key active ingredient in several over-the-counter “hot creams” for muscle and joint pain. Capsaicin creates the sensation of heat by a thermogenic effect which raises your body temperature and boosts circulation in the areas where it is applied. Also, it is a natural cardiovascular health supplement and blood pressure reducer.

You can add cayenne pepper in your dishes once or twice a week to help in lowering your blood pressure.

3. Cinnamon

According to an article in the Journal of Clinical Nutrition, consumption of cinnamon daily may help lower blood pressure in people with diabetes.

You can include more cinnamon in your diet by sprinkling it on your oatmeal, breakfast cereal and even in your coffee. At dinner time, cinnamon enhances the flavor of curries, stir-fries and stews.

4. Flaxseed

Flaxseed is filled with omega-3 fatty acids, which have been found to significantly lower blood pressure. Also, it may protect against atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease by improving glucose tolerance, reducing serum cholesterol and acting as an antioxidant.

You can buy products that contain flaxseed, but it is much better to buy ground flaxseed or grind it yourself using a coffee grinder and add it to your home-cooked meals. Flaxseed can be stirred into any dishes, from smoothies, soups and baked goods. Store the flaxseed in your freezer to retain its optimum potency.

5. Garlic

Garlic is a very powerful herb that is popularly-known to be very effective for a number of physical ailments. In fact, many of the powerful benefits of garlic are still being discovered.

A recent study done at the University of Berlin reported that garlic can remove nanoplaque. Nanoplaque is a compound that is deposited on the walls of cells, which leads to atherosclerosis and clogged arteries. Garlic is known to lower overall cholesterol levels, prevent blood clots, which will stop high blood pressure.

More on Garlic: 5 Benefits of Eating Raw Garlic Daily

6. Ginger

Ginger may help in controlling blood pressure, as it has been known to improve blood circulation and relax the muscles surrounding blood vessels. It is commonly used in Asian foods and is a very versatile ingredient.

You can mince, chop or grate fresh ginger into soups, stir-fries and noodle or vegetable dishes, or add it to tea or desserts for a refreshing taste.