Wednesday, January 19, 2011

Lower Blood Pressure with Garlic and Other Herbs

It is possible to lower blood pressure with garlic and several other herbs. Regular intake of garlic for a month can lower blood pressure significantly.


High blood pressure (hypertension) is a very serious condition.  It can lead to a variety of health problems. More than 30% of the people in the USA and other parts of the world suffer from it. There are several natural ways to overcome the problem.

High blood pressure may not show any symptoms. But it can lead to the damage of heart, kidneys, blood vessels and other parts of the body. The normal blood pressure is 120/80.

Reasons

There are several causes for the increase in blood pressure. One of them is obesity. Consuming excess calories contributes to the increase in weight and blood pressure. Strict dieting is necessary. The best foods to bring down weight are vegetables, fruits, chicken, fish and egg whites. 

Excess sodium can also contribute to the increase in blood pressure. Chips, pickles, crisps and sauces should be avoided. Alcohol and smoking also contribute to the increase. It also tends to increase with age.

Water

One of the most important ways to reduce blood pressure is to drink sufficient quantities of water.  Drinking water before breakfast or dinner is recommended. As your stomach feels fuller you are likely to eat less food. Water also helps to digest food easily.

Exercise

Cardio exercises like jogging, walking, and cycling not only help in maintain normal weight but also aid in reducing hypertension.  

Herbs

Garlic has been used for ages to cure a variety of ailments. Raw garlic acts on the cell membranes and makes the muscles to relax. It helps to reduce blood pressure. It can reduce both diastolic and systolic blood pressure. Three cloves of fresh raw garlic should be cut to pieces and swallowed like a tablet. Garlic is a blood thinner and helps to prevent blood clots. It also helps to lower blood cholesterol levels. 

Hawthorn is a herb which is known to expand arteries and help to improve coronary blood flow. It helps to reduce hypertension.

Ginger is known to improve blood circulation and helps to reduce blood pressure. It helps to relax muscles around the blood vessels and reduces cholesterol.

Aswagandha  is very popular herb prescribed by ayurveda. It is grown in India. It is also helpful in reducing blood pressure.

Cinnamon reduces the levels of LDL cholesterol in the body. It has anti-oxidant properties. It helps to keep the blood pressure in control.

Sleep

Good sleep is an absolute must for good health. Blood pressure comes down when we sleep. 8-9 hours of sleep is an absolute must for good health.


These are some of the methods to lower blood pressure

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