Hypertension is a complex disorder which can lead to stroke, heart attack and heart failure; if left untreated. Here is a list of some herbs that are used for treating high blood pressure.

High blood pressure or hypertension is a condition that is often considered a lifestyle disorder. In most cases, hypertension develops gradually through the years, and do not have a specific cause. The risk factors include age, family history, obesity, pregnancy, stress, high levels of sodium intake, use of tobacco, lack of physical activity, alcohol consumption, and deficiency of vitamin D and potassium. Hypertension is a very common disorder in adults, but nowadays, children are also prone to this condition. This is due to their unhealthy dietary habits, lack of physical activity and poor lifestyle.

With higher incidence of this disorder, more and more people are resorting to herbal medicine and other stress relieving techniques. Here are some herbs, which are found to be effective for controlling hypertension.

Garlic: Garlic has already proved its worth as a culinary herb, but it has many health benefits too. It is believed to be beneficial for controlling hypertension and for promoting cardiovascular health. It is also good for lowering the bad cholesterol level, and is antibacterial in nature. According to some recent studies, use of garlic supplements may prove effective for controlling hypertension. However, use such supplements only after consulting your health care provider. It may cause side-effects, if taken with some prescription drugs.

Ginkgo Biloba: Ginkgo Biloba, a herb of Chinese origin, has been used for medicinal purposes, for thousands of years. It is found to be effective for lowering high blood pressure, as it dilates arteries and improves blood circulation. This facilitates increased blood flow to the brain, thereby enhancing the memory power.

Turmeric: This herb, which is commonly used in the Indian cuisine, has many medicinal properties. The active ingredient in turmeric, called curcumin, has antioxidant properties that help to control bad cholesterol, and improve blood flow by making the blood vessels strong. Turmeric is also good for liver metabolism.

Hawthorn: Otherwise known as mayblossom, hawthorn is a herb which has been used traditionally to treat hypertension. It is believed that, this herb enhances blood flow by dilating the arteries. Hawthorn reduces the risk of hardening of coronary arteries and strengthens heart muscles. It is better to take hawthorn in the form of herbal tea.

Ginger: Ginger is an indispensable ingredient, as far as Asian cuisine is concerned. It is good for improving blood circulation and for relaxing muscles around the blood vessels. This herb is also used for preventing nausea and is an effective digestive aid.

Olive Leaf: Olive leaf extract is found to be useful for controlling high blood pressure. It can also help to normalize irregular heartbeat or arrhythmia.

There are many other herbs used for treating hypertension. They include maitake mushroom, mistletoe, rauwolfia, lime blossom, saffron, asparagus, and hibiscus. Even spices, like cinnamon and cardamom may prove beneficial for lowering high blood pressure. To ensure the efficacy of herbs, they have to taken in prescribed quantities. You must buy good quality herbs and use them according to the instructions of a qualified herbal practitioner. It will be better to seek the opinion of your health care provider, before starting any herbal treatment for lowering high blood pressure. Following a healthy lifestyle, with a balanced diet and regular exercise, may also work wonders for preventing and controlling medical conditions, like hypertension.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only, and should not be used as a replacement for expert medical advice. Visiting your physician is the safest way to diagnose and treat any health condition.