High blood pressure is often linked to stress. Relaxation promotes overall well-being, including healthy blood vessels. Since constricted blood vessels contribute to high blood pressure, treatments that encourage dilation and relaxation are beneficial.
Explore these natural approaches to manage high blood pressure: herbs, aromatherapy, and yoga.
Herbs
Lemon Balm (Melissa officinalis):
This leafy green herb, resembling mint, is easy to cultivate. Lemon balm is known for its calming and muscle-strengthening properties. Introduced to Britain by the Romans in the 4th century, it also aids digestion, alleviates abdominal cramps, and soothes stress and nerves. The essential oil repels insects but should not be ingested. Lemon balm leaves enhance salads and marinades for chicken and fish. Pregnant women should avoid this herb due to its cervical muscle-relaxing effects.
Stinging Nettles:
Stinging nettles, rich in vitamin C, have been used to treat arthritis. They stimulate, cleanse, and improve heart function. Fresh, young shoots make a surprisingly good tea.
Hawthorne:
Hawthorne relaxes muscles, boosts heart metabolism, and strengthens heart contractions. It also dilates blood vessels, improving blood flow to the heart. Found in English hedgerows, hawthorne, especially its berries, has a history of medicinal use. Consult your doctor and a qualified herbalist before using hawthorne.
Other Beneficial Herbs:
Fennel, black pepper, ginger, oregano, basil, tarragon, and hyssop contain compounds that can help lower blood pressure. Fennel and ginger make excellent herbal teas, especially when combined with lemon balm.
Aromatherapy
Aromatherapy oils offer a convenient and safe alternative when used correctly. Never ingest them or apply them directly to the skin (except for lavender and tea tree oil). Use 5-8 drops in an oil burner or create a massage oil by diluting 5-10 drops in 10ml of almond oil. Opt for relaxing and calming oils like rose, ylang ylang, marjoram, lavender, cypress, chamomile, clary sage, and rosewood.
Yoga
Yoga helps lower high blood pressure by stretching and massaging blood vessels, improving circulation and promoting vessel flexibility. Yoga’s relaxation techniques combat stress, a known contributor to high blood pressure. Additionally, yoga is a weight-bearing exercise, which can help prevent osteoporosis.