High blood pressure, also known as hypertension, is a common condition in which the force of the blood against the artery walls is too high. This can lead to a number of serious health problems, including heart disease, stroke, and kidney disease. Therefore, it is important to effectively manage and treat high blood pressure in order to reduce the risk of these complications. Some individuals may prefer to use alternative treatments in order to manage their condition.

One alternative treatment for high blood pressure is lifestyle changes. Making healthy lifestyle choices, such as eating a healthy diet, getting regular exercise, and maintaining a healthy weight, can help to lower blood pressure. A diet that is rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, and low in sodium, saturated fat, and added sugars, can help to lower blood pressure. Regular exercise, such as walking, jogging, cycling, or swimming, can also help to lower blood pressure by improving blood flow and reducing stress.

Another alternative treatment for high blood pressure is relaxation techniques, such as meditation, yoga, or deep breathing. These practices can help to reduce stress and tension, which can contribute to high blood pressure.

Herbal remedies and supplements are also sometimes used as alternative treatments for high blood pressure. However, it is important to speak with a healthcare provider before taking any herbal remedies or supplements, as they may interact with medications or have potential side effects.

Some of the most commonly used herbal remedies  and supplements for high blood pressure include:

1. Garlic has been shown to have blood pressure-lowering effects and may be effective in reducing both systolic and diastolic blood pressure.

2. Hawthorn is a plant that has been traditionally used to treat a variety of heart conditions, including high blood pressure. It is thought to work by dilating blood vessels, which can help to lower blood pressure.

3. Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10): CoQ10 is a natural compound that is produced by the body and is important for energy production. It has been shown to lower blood pressure in some individuals and may be particularly effective in combination with other blood pressure-lowering medications.

4. Fish oil is a source of omega-3 fatty acids, which have been shown to have blood pressure-lowering effects. It may be particularly effective in individuals with high triglycerides, a type of fat in the blood.

5. Magnesium is a mineral that is important for many bodily functions, including maintaining normal blood pressure. Some research suggests that magnesium supplements may be effective in lowering blood pressure, particularly in individuals with low levels of magnesium.

6. Prickly custard apple, also known as soursop, is a tropical fruit long used in some cultures for managing hypertension and type 2 diabetes. In one recent study, people with prehypertension who took soursop supplements had significantly lower systolic and diastolic blood pressure after three months compared to people who received no treatment. Soursop seems to reduce the activity of enzymes that help regulate blood sugar (glucose). Reducing blood sugar contributes to reduced insulin production, which can keep blood pressure levels under control. But more research is necessary to prove how effectively prickly custard apples may help lower blood pressure, the right dose to use, and how long the benefits last.

7. Celery is thought to help with blood pressure regulation due to a natural chemical called 3-n-butylphthalide, which has been found to lower blood pressure in animals. However, only very small human trials have tested celery juice’s effects. Although the results of the two studies are promising, it’s not enough evidence to support using celery or its juice to treat hypertension.

8. Basil has been used in traditional Chinese medicine for treating various cardiovascular diseases and conditions like hypertension. The herb is known to be high in eugenol, a plant compound that is linked to lowered blood pressure. Sweet basil essential oil may also have angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE)-inhibiting properties, which are linked with antihypertensive benefits. But while some small, preliminary studies on basil supplements and blood pressure in humans are promising, it’s far from solid proof that the herb works. 

9. Flaxseed, also known as linseed, is a source of omega-3 fatty acids, particularly alpha-linolenic acid (ALA). Consuming high levels of ALA is associated with lower blood pressure. That may be why studies suggest that consuming flaxseed oil or whole flaxseed may help reduce systolic and diastolic blood pressure.

10. Sesame seeds are rich in vitamin E, which is linked with protective factors for heart health. Research on the antihypertensive properties of sesame is still ongoing. So far, studies suggest that eating sesame seeds or sesame oil may help reduce blood pressure. 

11. Ginger seems to have antihypertensive properties, with studies using ginger treatments suggesting an average 6 mm Hg reduction in systolic blood pressure and a 2 mm Hg decrease in diastolic blood pressure for people younger than 50. Researchers believe ginger contains components that inhibit angiotensin-converting enzymes (ACE), in turn easing pressure on the blood vessels.

Acupuncture, a traditional Chinese medicine technique in which thin needles are inserted into specific points on the body, is another alternative treatment that has been shown to be effective in lowering blood pressure. Acupuncture is thought to work by stimulating the release of endorphins, which can help to relax the body and lower blood pressure.

It is important to note that alternative treatments should not be used as a replacement for conventional treatments for high blood pressure, such as medication. Instead, they may be used in conjunction with these treatments to help manage and control blood pressure. It is always important to speak with a healthcare provider before starting any new treatment for high blood pressure.

September 2021.