Natural Blood Pressure Reducers

High blood pressure is the most common health problem faced by adults these days. Natural reducers help reduce the pressure without any side effects. Here more on what the natural remedies for this condition are.

Blood pressure is considered to be high, when two consecutive readings above 140/90 mm Hg are observed. Although medications that reduce blood pressure are available, their effect is temporary and one has to follow the medications lifelong. Additionally, there are numerous risks involved with the use of such medications. Thus, natural blood pressure reducers are a better option, and some of these are given below.

Natural Remedies for High Blood Pressure

Yoga

Yoga is considered to be one of the best natural blood pressure reducer. Though the benefits of yoga have recently become popular, it has been practiced since ancient times. While doing any exercise, the need for blood and oxygen increases. This is not the case while doing yoga. The asanas of yoga have very less oxygen and blood requirement. Yoga helps reduce the strain on mind, thereby helping to reduce blood pressure. It not only gives mental peace, but improves the functioning of the body organs, including the brain and the heart. Given below, are some of the Yoga Asanas that help reduce blood pressure.

• Sukhasan – It is a meditative pose, and its advantages include slowing down the metabolism of the body and straightening the spine.
• Ardha Matsyendrasana – It is also called half spinal twist, and benefits liver, adrenal glands, and kidneys.
• Pavanamuktasan – Derived from the Sanskrit word “pavana” meaning wind and “mukta” means free or to release; the pose mainly works on digestive system.
• Anuloma Viloma – It is an alternate breathing technique where you breathe air through one nostril, hold the breath, and exhale through the other nostril.

Exercise
Other than yoga, regular exercises can also help maintain blood pressure, and include activities like cycling and walking. Exercises may also reduce the intake of high blood pressure medication. It is recommended that if you are suffering from high blood pressure, you should not exercise excessively, as this may worsen your health. Get your exercise plan approved from your physician, and follow it regularly.

Diet

High blood pressure patients need to make quite a few modifications to their diet. The diet should contain magnesium, calcium, potassium, and garlic supplements. Patients should strictly avoid salt consumption, as sodium is an important factor that increases the blood pressure. Proper diet, that includes a variety of fruits and vegetables, improves the cardiovascular health. The diet should also include important acids required by the body like docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), eicosapentaeonic acid (EPA) and alpha linolenic acid (ALA). The following table will give you an idea of the sources of the nutrients, mentioned above.

Dark Chocolate
Dark chocolate and the food products made from it have been proved to reduce blood pressure. The component of dark chocolate called flavanol has health benefits. Chocolate confectionery and cocoa drinks are linked to the lowering of blood pressure. However, the amount of consumption of cocoa should be limited. Consult a professional for the amount of dark chocolate and other information, before you choose this natural blood pressure reducer.

Other than the natural blood pressure reducers listed above, music therapy and meditation also help to reduce blood pressure. High blood pressure is called a “silent killer”, as it may give rise to severe health consequences.

Disclaimer: This HolisticZine article is for informative purposes only, and should not be used as a replacement for expert medical advice.