High Blood Pressure
High blood pressure (hypertension) is caused by a variety of factors. Hardening of the arteries and emotional stress are often contributing factors. For most people, lifestyle changes bring their blood pressure into a healthy range. Work with your doctor to monitor your blood pressure and track your progress.
Eat fresh fruits and vegetables
Fresh fruits and vegetables are rich it potassium. calcium, magnesium, fibre,
and vitamin C-all help lower blood pressure. Strive for as many as ten servings
daily. eat fruit and vegetable: with every meal and as snacks.
Eat celery, garlic, and onions
Celery is a traditional Chinese remedy which is thought to help relax the
smooth muscles of the artery walls. Garlic and onions also help relax the
blood vessels. Eat four stalks of celery and at least one cloy of garlic or
half an onion every day.
Exercise aerobically to reduce stress
Make sure you do at least 30 minutes of moderate aerobic exercise, such as
brisk walking. bicycling, or dancing, five times a week This will not only
improve your cardiovascular health but also help to decrease your levels of
stress hormones which can otherwise raise your blood pressure.
Relax to lower blood pressure
Emotional stress is often a factor in hypertension. Eliminate stress triggers
if possible. but more importantly, identify and change the way that you respond
to stressful situations. Learn to slow down. to relax, and to take life with
gentleness and humour. Practise some form of relaxation every day. Meditation,
yoga tai chi. and deep relaxation exercises help regulate breathing and heart
rate, relax tense muscles, and reduce stress hormone levels.
Reduce blood pressure with herbs
Hawthorn dilates the arteries and so helps lower blood pressure. Lime flower
calms the emotional tension that often underlies high blood pressure.Yarrow
dilates the peripheral blood vessels and acts as a mild diuretic. Caution:
Hawthorn is a restricted herb and must be prescribed by a qualified herbalist
750m1 (24f1 oz) boiling water
3 teaspoons crushed dried hawthorn berries
3 teaspoons dried lime flower
2 teaspoons dried yarrow
Pour the water over the herbs. Cover, and steep for 20 minutes. Strain, and
drink three cups a day.
