High Blood Pressure
High blood pressure, or Hypertension, affects almost one third of adults in the United States, according to the American Heart Association. Even more amazing, many don't even know they have a blood pressure problem. Normal blood pressure should be below 120/80 mmHg. When measuring blood pressure, two numbers are taken: the 'systolic' and the 'diastolic'. The systolic number is the first number in a blood pressure recording. The systolic measures the blood pressure when the heart beats. The diastolic is the second number, and it measures the pressure when the heart is between beats, or at rest.
Symptoms
Many people don't realize they have high blood pressure because there are no symptoms in the early stages. As it progresses, you may feel dizzy, experience headaches, fatigue, nausea or confusion and nosebleeds. You may experience tiredness, breathlessness following exertion. Some people may also hear a ringing in their ears and have visual disturbances. Pre-hypertension is diagnosed when you have a systolic pressure between 120 to 139 or a diastolic pressure between 80 and 89. Stage 1 hypertension describes a systolic pressure between 140 to 159 or a diastolic pressure between 90 and 99. Stage 2 hypertension is a systolic pressure higher than 160 or a diastolic pressure higher than 100.
Causes
There is usually no one single cause for high blood pressure. For primary hypertension, the cause is usually a combination of being overweight, a low activity level, smoking, how much sodium you eat, low potassium, stress, drinking too much alcohol, age and family history. High blood pressure can also be caused by underlying conditions like kidney disease, thyroid problems, adrenal gland disease, hormonal disorders and some medications like oral contraceptives or even some herbs. Unusual blood pressure resulting from these other conditions is known as secondary hypertension.
Cautions
Depending on the level of your blood pressure, if left untreated it can cause organ damage and raise your risk of brain hemorrhage, stroke, heart attack, kidney disease and loss of vision. See your doctor regularly to check the condition of your heart and overall health.
Herbal Treatments
Internal Applications
- Garlic – this herb can reduce blood pressure when taken as a supplement. Garlic can thin the blood, so if you are taking prescription blood thinners, garlic may increase their efficiency.
- Hawthorn – this herb has long been used by herbalists to treat high blood pressure. Studies have shown that hawthorn made a significant reduction in diastolic blood pressure with no noticeable interactions with other medications.
- Arjuna – this herb dilates the coronary arteries and strengthens the circulation. It also tones the heart muscle.
- Flax – grind up 2 to 4 tablespoons of flax seeds daily. Ground flax seeds provide fiber, lignin and vitamins. Flax seed oil can also be used.
- Coleus – this herb lowers blood pressure and improves the function of the heart.
- Mistletoe – this herb is well-tolerated and nontoxic when taken at normal doses. Follow the instructions carefully, since overdosing can be dangerous.
- Rauwolfia – this herb is a very potent remedy for hypertension. Take according to directions to get the best results and avoid side effects. Congestion of the nasal passages is the most common side effect.
- Lemon – add the juice of half a lemon to 100 grams of water and drink every two hours for relief from abnormal blood pressure.
- Fenugreek – take one teaspoon of fenugreek sees in the morning and evening on an empty stomach for 10 to 15 days with water.
- Papaya – eat fresh papaya every day for a month as a remedy for high blood pressure.