

However, more human research is needed.Ĭelery seeds ( Apium graveolens) are a versatile spice that’s packed with various nutrients, such as iron, magnesium, manganese, calcium, and fiber. Summaryīasil contains compounds, such as eugenol, that may help reduce blood pressure, according to animal studies. However, scientists need to do more research to investigate whether basil helps lower blood pressure in humans. Studies suggest that eugenol may help reduce blood pressure by acting as a natural calcium channel blocker.Ĭalcium channel blockers prevent the movement of calcium into the heart and arterial cells, allowing the blood vessels to relax ( 4).Īnimal studies have shown that sweet basil extracts helped relax blood vessels and thin the blood, which in turn helped reduce blood pressure ( 5, 6, 7). Research has linked this plant-based antioxidant to many health benefits, including lowered blood pressure ( 3). It’s popular in alternative medicine because it’s rich in various powerful compounds.

After a month, readings were down 4.Share on Pinterest Natasa Mandic/Stocksy Unitedīasil ( Ocimum basilicum) is a flavorful herb that comes in various forms. After a week, the participants had lowered their average systolic reading by 3.2 points. The University of Florence asked 28 adults on hypertension pills to listen to soothing classical, Celtic, or Indian music for 30 minutes a day, while also breathing slowly. Try Healthspan Coenzyme Q10 60mg (£14.95 for 90 capsules). Speak to your GP about taking a 60-100mg supplement three times a day. CoQ10 is an antioxidant required for energy production and works by dilating blood vessels. Studies have found that coenzyme Q10 supplements reduced blood pressure by up to 17 points over ten points. Duke University Medical Centre found 500mg of caffeine - three mugs of coffee - daily, increased blood pressure by 4 points, lasting until bedtime.

Try Beet It, £1.39 for 250ml, available at good supermarkets.Ĭaffeine can raise blood pressure by tightening blood vessels and by magnifying the effects of stress, which makes the heart pump faster. Scientists at Queen Mary, University of London say patients who drank 250ml of beetroot juice daily had significantly lower blood pressure for up to 24 hours. Try five minutes in the morning and at night. Slow breathing and meditative practices, such as qigong, yoga, and tai chi decrease stress hormones which elevate renin, a kidney enzyme that raises blood pressure. Good sources include bananas, melons, pulses, mushrooms and sweet potatoes. This mineral can counter the effects of sodium (from salt) and is great at helping to control blood pressure. These contain 80 per cent of the salt we consume, says the Blood Pressure Association. Try to cut down on processed foods – bread, biscuits, breakfast cereals, takeaways and ready meals. Try Hambleden Hibiscus Tea, £2.50 for 30 bags from health stores. ‘Aim to walk vigorously for at least 30 minutes most days, but build up to this if you’re not used to doing any exercise.’Ī US study claims that three cups of hibiscus tea daily lowers systolic pressure by seven points in six weeks – equalling the effects of many medications. ‘Regular exercise strengthens the heart so that it can pump more blood with less effort,’ according to Professor Gareth Beevers of the Blood Pressure Association. Regular brisk walks can lower the top number (systolic) of your blood pressure reading by almost eight points and the lower figure (diastolic) by six. Studies have shown that you’re twice as likely to have high blood pressure (ie: it’s consistently at or above 140/90) if your BMI is 30 or higher (visit nhs.uk). Try An Alternative: Natural Ways to Lower Blood Pressure

If you are one of the 16 million people in the UK with high blood pressure, and don't yet need medication, a natural remedy may help.
