A holistic approach combining the use of carefully chosen herbal remedies, along with lifestyle changes can go a long way to improve the overall cardiovascular health and lower blood pressure. Moderate exercise for 30 minutes daily can have an immediate effect on high blood pressure and losing as little as 10 pounds can make a big difference as well. Even small diet changes like cooking with more garlic and savory herbs instead of salt can have beneficial effects.

The polyphenols in teas help to fight plaque buildup in your veins and arteries. Two to three daily cups of green tea or hibiscus , a delicious red tea, has been shown in studies to reduce high blood pressure. Herbal diuretics like buchu and cornsilk tea can also help by eliminating edema. Angelica contains compounds that act much like calcium channel blockers, which are often prescribed for high blood pressure and heart health. In animal studies Nigel la has shown significant activity against liver disease, high blood pressure, and rheumatoid arthritis.

Aromatherapy has much to offer in the treatment of hypertension. Hypotensive oils to consider include lavender, marjoram, and ylang ylang . Relaxing, stabilizing oils and herbs can be used in therapeutic massage, baths and calming mist sprays to ease the stress and tension that make high blood pressure worse.

Berberine containing plants are best known as anti-infectious agents in the treatment of diarrhea and intestinal disorders, but have the beneficial secondary effect of lowering blood pressure as well.

In Iran, Barberry (Berberis vulgaris) leaf was used to reduce edema; in France, its bark was used in hypertension. In traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), coptis (Coptis spp.) and other berberine-containing plants were used in heart formulas. ¹

TCM also uses Chrysanthemum combined with Japanese honeysuckle in the treatment of high blood pressure. Although most useful as a wound herb and fever reducer, yarrow helps to relax blood vessels and lower blood pressure.

Those with high blood pressure need to be extra cautious when using and mixing herbs, OTC medications and prescription meds. Research carefully before trying any new herbs, and always take note of your individual reaction. Chinese medicine considers ginseng to be one of the most yang herbs and is actually contraindicated for those whose yang condition is causing high blood pressure. This may explain the conflicting reports here in the West on whether ginseng is a cure for high blood pressure, or worsens it. Maintaining electrolyte balance is also important, for instance licorice (Glycyrrhiza glabra) can decrease potassium levels, cause sodium and water retention and increase blood pressure.