Natural Medicine to Lower Blood Pressure

Natural medicine may be able to lower blood pressure with fewer side effects when compared to prescription medications. Types of natural medicines may include the use of dietary supplements or herbs as well as practicing natural stress relief and breathing techniques that are common in Eastern medicine. People who are thinking about using natural medicine to lower blood pressure should talk to their doctors first.

Types

Omega-3 fatty acids are found in fish or fish oil and in supplements, and may lower blood pressure more effectively than some prescription medications.

Types

Extracts from hawthorn fruit, leaves and flowers can be used in liquid or pill form to lower blood pressure.

Types

Two amino acids, L-arginine and L-taurine, are used as dietary supplements and can lower blood pressure after the body converts it to nitrous oxide, which widens blood vessels.

Types

Coenzyme Q10 may lower blood pressure for people who have mildly elevated blood pressure levels. It does not have any significant side effects.

Types

Breathing and stretching techniques such as tai chi, yoga and qigong can lower blood pressure and stress levels when performed daily over a period of several months.

Warning

Dietary supplements and herbs that are sold over the counter in health or food stores may not be appropriately labeled with ingredients or dosage information and instructions.

Resources

• National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine: Heart Disease
• Cleveland Clinic: Alternative Treatments for Hypertension