Generally, beta blockers are prescribed for heart patients. Most people would usually prefer to take natural treatments for their ailment. Are you wondering what could be the natural alternative to beta blockers? To find out, read on.
Beta blockers block the beta-adrenergenic agents and the effect of norepinephrine and epinephrine hormones. Norepinephrine and epinephrine are adrenaline hormones that are blocked from binding with the beta receptors on the nerves. The three types of beta receptors in our body, perform different functions and are situated in different areas of the body. They are as follows:
- Beta-1: Heart and kidney
- Beta-2: Lungs, liver, uterus, blood vessels, and muscles
- Beta-3: Fat cells in the body
Mainly, beta blockers block the beta-1 and beta-2 receptors and are usually prescribed for heart-related ailments. These beta blockers are often used for treating abnormal heart rhythm, angina (chest pain), tremor, heart failure, high blood pressure, pheochromocytoma and preventing migraine.
There are very few side effects of beta blockers which are rarely seen. They are as follows:
- Dizziness
- Cold hands and feet
- Difficulty in sleeping
- Tiredness
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Heartburn
To minimize these side effects, patients as well as doctors are turning to natural substitutes or the natural beta blockers.
Natural Alternatives to Beta Blockers
We have the habit of looking for a more natural way of curing diseases. Mainly, beta blockers are of two types, viz. cardioselective and non-cardioselective. Cardioselective are used to cure all heart related ailments; while non-cardioselective are for treating the rest of the body. Natural substitutes for both types are readily available. Some of them include the following:
Passion Flower: Passion flower, also known as maypop, is a naturally grown medicinal herb. Passion flower acts as a tranquilizer for the patients suffering from insomnia, anxiety and restlessness. The capsules and tinctures of passion-flower are easily available in medical stores. Although, it is an effective relaxer and a good pain reliever, passion-flower is non-addictive. It is an effective muscle relaxant and used in many pharmaceuticals as beta blockers. Passion flower tablets or tinctures should not be taken without medical prescription.
Chamomile Tea: Chamomile tea is a natural beta blocker. It is rich in antioxidants, which tends to neutralize free radicals. Free radicals are those compounds which damage the body cells, increase the aging process, alter DNA and cause cell death. Free radicals are mostly responsible for a number of health-related problems, like cancer and heart failure. Polyphenols are the antioxidants in the tea, which prevent harm from the free radicals. Chamomile tea is a good beta blocker. It is also available in the capsule form and must not be taken, if you are taking some other beta blocker. Medical consultation is necessary for taking chamomile tea or tablets.
L-arginine: L-arginine is an amino acid. Amino acids play an important role in the proper functioning of human body. It is a basic building block of proteins and arginine is one of the many amino acids. Normally sesame seeds, chocolate and grains are the sources of arginine. L-arginine is a natural beta blocker and is available in the form of pills and tablets. Before taking these tablets, consulting your doctor is important.
Pomegranate Juice: Although, pomegranate is a common fruit, its antioxidant property has been researched extensively in the recent years. Some researches in California have also proved that pomegranate juice has more number of antioxidants than green tea and red wine. Therefore, pomegranate juice is now becoming a popular natural beta blocker.
Breathing Exercises: Breathing exercises can help a lot in controlling blood pressure. For breathing exercises, sitting in an upright posture is important. Exhale the air, with the tip of your tongue touching the upper front teeth, until your lungs are empty. Inhale air, while counting five, mentally. Hold your breath, till five counts. Repeat this entire cycle, ten times. This exercise can be done anywhere and is an easy way to decrease anxiety and blood pressure. This is a natural way to help reduce blood pressure and can be done without even consulting a doctor.
Remember and be cautious of the following points, while taking up these natural treatments.
- The herbal and natural medicines can interact with the other drugs.
- Natural drugs or alternative natural medicines are not always safe.
- Many times, natural treatment involves drugs which are not standardized.
Therefore, it is advised to have a talk with your doctor before you substitute your daily medicines with the natural ones. One should be completely sure of them, before one uses the natural alternatives to beta-blockers.
