High blood pressure, also known as hypertension, is a chronic condition linked to cardiovascular health. It occurs when the blood vessels begin to narrow, causing the blood itself to exert pressure against the vessel walls. As a result, the heart begins to pump harder. If left untreated, hypertension can lead to life-threatening cardiovascular conditions like heart attack, coronary heart failure and stroke.

That said, hypertension is preventable. You can easily avoid the risk of high blood pressure by following a proper diet, maintaining a healthy weight and limiting alcohol intake.

But beyond protective measures, you can also control blood pressure levels by incorporating a variety of herbs to a balanced diet. Herbs contain plant compounds that have strong antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects against chronic conditions. Moreover, the use of herbs as natural remedies stem from traditional medicine that relied on plants and organic ingredients to treat ailments.

The following are 10 herbs that serve as potent natural remedies for hypertension.

Garlic

Garlic is a bulbous herb closely related to onions, leeks and chives. Like most herbs, garlic produces a distinct aroma that heightens the flavor of any dish or beverage. Garlic contains approximately 33 sulfur-rich compounds that have anti-inflammatory, antibacterial and antioxidant properties. In particular, the compound known as allicin has been shown to reduce high blood pressure. Garlic is also commonly used to prevent cardiovascular conditions like atherosclerosis, congestive heart failure and Type 2 diabetes.

If you are out of garlic, you can also use onions to enjoy similar benefits. Like garlic, onions also contain active compounds that can reduce blood pressure and prevent blood clots.

Green tea

The leaves of Camellia sinensis (tea plant) are commonly harvested to produce green tea. Its leaves contain a compound known as epigallocatechin-3-gallate (EGCG) that acts as a powerful antioxidant and anti-inflammatory agent. Extensive research on the medicinal properties of green tea has long since proven that the popular herbal drink can reduce systolic and diastolic blood pressure. But green tea can also increase blood pressure in cases of hypotension or abnormally low blood pressure.

Cinnamon

Technically speaking, cinnamon is considered a spice. But like tea leaves, it can be used to create hot medicinal drinks. Cinnamon contains a naturally occurring chemical known as cinnamaldehyde that has antioxidant properties. When consumed as an herbal tea, cinnamon can cause high blood pressure levels to go down. It can also restore insulin sensitivity and lower cholesterol levels.

Sage

Sage is commonly used to add freshness to tomato sauces, omelets, fish dishes and pasta. But it also contains antioxidants that can lower blood pressure. Sage also promotes blood circulation by enhancing immune responses to inflammation.

Hibiscus

Hibiscus plants are known for their large, colorful blossoms that possess medicinal properties. Often, the hibiscus flower is harvested to create an herbal tea. It is widely believed to reduce blood pressure due to the presence of antioxidants that treat inflamed blood vessels.

Hawthorn

A member of the rose family, hawthorn is a thorny flowering shrub whose leaves, flowers, berries and stems are commonly used as herbal medicines. It is often used to treat ailments, such as high blood pressure and cholesterol levels, that increase the risk of cardiovascular conditions. Hawthorn is also known to improve blood circulation and prevent vascular inflammation that can cause blood clots.

Herbs are potent natural remedies for inflammation, infection and chronic conditions. But you can also maintain normal blood pressure levels by following a balanced diet and exercising regularly.

Sources:

MayoClinic.org

Herbeday.com