by Dasa Suciu

Created on: September 20, 2010

High blood pressure is a serious health problem that needs attention. It is the main risk factor for death caused by its complications such as heart disease. There are many natural cures that can be used to lower high blood pressure. Generally, high blood pressure is not difficult to control. In severe cases, proper medication is the best choice. Seek medical advice and treatment.

Among the main causes of high blood pressure are heredity, obesity, diet, hardening of the arteries, high cholesterol and stress. We can do a lot to help our heart to better pump blood if we change most of our bad habits. Appeal much more to natural cures that may help and improve blood circulation. There is a great connection between blood pressure and the kidneys. Among the factors that influence kidney functioning and hence increase of blood pressure are: salt, fatty acids in proteins, nicotine, and certain medications.

Diet

Animal fats and table salt are considered the most dangerous enemies. Avoid animal fats and eat instead a variety of fresh fruits and vegetables. Reduce salt intake to 3 grams a day and avoid canned or processed food containing much salt. Coffee and alcohol are said to increase blood pressure. Consume with moderation and also quit smoking. A diet rich in foods containing potassium, magnesium and calcium will bring much help to reduce high blood pressure. Other foods having benefic effects on high blood pressure are: olive oil, garlic and yogurt.

Lifestyle 

Avoid excessive physical effort and lose weight. Exercise is good if practiced with care. Walking helps you to lose weight and reduce stress. Seek medical advice before starting any kind of exercise program. Managing stress is very important. Reduce stress by relaxation techniques, meditation or herbal remedies. Take care that some simple activities such as talking and reading may lead to an increase of blood pressure.

Herbs

Various herbs may contribute besides diet and lifestyle changes to help in lowering high blood pressure. You have just to try them after consulting a specialist to see what is working best in your case. So remember that high blood pressure has various causes. Among the well-known herbal cures are: mistletoe, hawthorn (Crataegus), rosemary and green tea. Rosemary has a volatile oil that improves blood circulation and cardiac rhythm. Herbal cures may be used in combination but under strict medical control. Hawthorn is said to act in a similar way to beta-blockers and aspirin. It is a valuable cure for most heart diseases.

When having a treatment for high blood pressure, a monitoring kit is very useful. The herbal cures and the changes in diet and lifestyle may not have quick result. But they are worth trying if you are patient. Because their effect is similar to medication even if they work in time, be aware and consult the specialist.

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