What You Should Know About COVID-19 and Hypertension

With nearly half of Americans having hypertension, questions are swirling as people wonder if they are at a higher risk for a severe COVID-19 infection or if their hypertension medications might introduce a new danger. Much of what the medical community understands about the novel coronavirus is changing rapidly, but here is what we do know based on what has been happening around the world.

Does hypertension increase the risk for a severe COVID-19 infection?

Adults over age 60 are more likely to need critical care after contracting COVID-19. However, the virus is also fiercely attacking those who have weakened immune systems across all age groups. This has been especially true for people with diabetes and heart diseases. Hypertension patients who have other health problems or do not have their high blood pressure under control with medication are at higher risk. A large study conducted by the Chinese CDC identified high blood pressure as a high-risk factor for severe cases and deaths related to COVID-19. However, the data did not factor in such variables as underlying health conditions or if the high blood pressure was under control with medication. Industry experts, including the American Heart Association (AHA), believe hypertension alone does not increase the risk.

Do antihypertensive medications induce a special risk?

On March 11, 2020, The Lancet created a stir with its hypothesis that ACE2 inhibitor medications could potentially increase the severity of a COVID-19 patient’s symptoms because the virus attaches itself to blood vessels via ACE2. ACE inhibitors are used to treat hypertension, which fueled widespread concerns over the safety of established treatments. The esteemed medical journal noted the three independent studies that it cited did not assess prescription treatments as a contributing factor to the non-surviving COVID-19 patients. The AHA, along with the American College of Cardiology and the Heart Failure Society of America, released a statement acknowledging the potential link but noting that no data support beneficial or adverse outcomes. Do not discontinue use of your medication without talking to your medical team.

Do I need to take special precautions?

Very little is still known about the virus, so continue to take the recommended CDC precautions to reduce your exposure. There are several things you can do to stay healthy with hypertension during the COVID-19 outbreak. Monitor those new pantry food staples for high doses of salt, fat and cholesterol, which are major contributing factors to high blood pressure. Along with eating healthy and taking your prescribed medication, exercising regularly, practicing relaxation techniques and reducing alcohol consumption will keep your blood pressure at healthier ranges.

The post COVID-19 (Coronavirus) and Hypertension appeared first on BloodPressureOK.com.

These days, many people are looking for ways to lower their high blood pressure. Accomplishing this objective is important because high blood pressure can cause a wide range of health issues that detract from the quality of one’s life. Luckily, many researchers now agree that celery can be used to combat the problem. Learn more about high blood pressure and celery by reviewing the short outline that appears below:

Celery for Lower BP

If you’re looking for ways to ensure that you can keep your blood pressure at a reasonable rate, you may want to turn to celery. As noted in Cleveland Clinic, celery has a phytochemical which is referred to as phthalides. When used in extract form, phthalides is referred to as NBP. The extract is known to relax the artery wall tissue. This relaxation results in reduced blood pressure and increased blood flow.

While individuals can help lower their blood pressure by consuming celery in extract form, eating the whole food is better. This is the case for several reasons, including the fact that eating celery whole ensures that you attain potassium, magnesium, and fiber. Each of these food properties contributes to the blood pressure regulation process. Dr. Shafer states that you should eat about four stalks (which is equivalent to one chopped cup) each day.

How To Incorporate Celery Into Your Diet

If celery isn’t already a staple in your diet, know that there are numerous ways for you to start consuming more. For example, you can make a salad dressing by mixing avocado, celery, and lemon juice in your blender. This will taste delicious over a bed of your favorite lettuce.

Another way to work celery into your diet is ants on a log. This is a childhood favorite for many adults, and there’s no reason not to bring it back into your meal plan because it is both delicious and nutritious. Ants on a log is made by smearing peanut butter on top of a celery stalk and then topping it with raisins. If you’re not a raisin fan, you can use substitutes like dried cranberries or dates.

You can access even more delicious celery recipes through Internet articles such as The New York Times’s Celery Recipes

Summing It All Up

If you’re serious about bringing your high blood pressure down, now is the time to implement techniques that will help you realize the goal. One strategy that can prove beneficial is incorporating more celery into your diet. Use the information and advice found above to ensure that you can get on the road to greater health now!

The post Celery for High Blood Pressure appeared first on BloodPressureOK.com.

Beets have long been known for their health benefits, especially for their high vitamin C content and immune boosting power. More recent attention has been given to a specific benefit of beetroot juice and that is its ability to lower blood pressure.

Beetroot Juice

Various studies have shown that drinking beetroot juice can result in significant reductions in overall blood pressure readings, with systolic blood pressure being most positively affected. In addition to the powerful antioxidants, or cancer-fighting nutrients in beetroot juice, it also contains compounds known as nitrates. Nitrates that occur naturally in foods help to increase blood flow in the body, thus supporting the heart and healthy blood vessels. Because of increased blood flow, many individuals who drink beetroot juice report an increase in energy levels.

While eating beets in their whole, natural state can be a healthful addition to any diet, juicing raw beetroot ensures that you are getting the maximum amount of nutrients to assist with blood pressure reduction. Research indicates that 1 to 2 cups of beetroot juice each day is enough to significantly reduce blood pressure. Beets help to detoxify the body, so it is a good idea to start with a lesser amount of beetroot juice to allow the body time to get used to it slowly.

Beetroot juice can be a healthy addition to your daily diet. The high carotene levels in the juice can cause both urine and bowels to have a reddish color which is not harmful. However, beets are also high in another chemical compound known as oxalates. Those with a history of kidney stones will probably want to refrain from beetroot juice as it can contribute to the formation of stones.

Keep an eye on a healthy diet

Because of the positive effects on blood pressure from drinking beetroot juice, if you are taking prescription blood pressure medications, it is important to let your doctor know if you are using this natural remedy as well. It is possible that medication levels may need to be adjusted when also using beetroot juice as part of your healthy living regimen.

It is important to point out that maintaining a healthy blood pressure requires a healthy diet from a variety of foods to obtain important nutrients for the body. Additionally, regular exercise and stress management are important for proper blood pressure management. For many individuals, drinking beetroot juice can be an easy, effective way of supporting healthy blood pressure levels, and maintaining overall good health.

The post Drinking beetroot juice reduces high blood pressure appeared first on BloodPressureOK.com.

One of the most popular herb seasonings used in cooking, rosemary may also have a positive effect on overall health. For centuries, people living in the southern part of Europe have used this plant for a variety of medicinal applications. Although medical science has yet to verify the effectiveness of rosemary when used as a healing compound, millions of natural herb enthusiasts give testimonials filled with positive criticism.

About The Plant

Rosemary is a shrub native to the Mediterranean region. It grows several feet tall and produces clusters of blossoms and oblong seeds. The leaves are needle-like, resembling those of spruce or fir trees. These are often ground into a powder and used to season foods, particularly beef and lamb.

Since the days of the ancient Egyptians, rosemary has been used as a stimulant. The needle leaves contain oil that can be extracted and concentrated. The oil can then be diluted in water and ingested.

Rosemary is a natural diuretic. A diuretic – sometimes called a water pill – is taken by those who wish to control their blood pressure. However, rosemary is made up of complex compounds, many of which are concentrated in the plant oil. Taking this herb can aid in blood circulation because the effect is one of a natural stimulant. Blood circulation aids are of particular interest to those who have high blood pressure and are overweight. Diuretics are also taken by those who have had heart or kidney problems.

Rosemary And Hypotension

Hypotension is a term used to define abnormally low blood pressure. The phytochemicals found in rosemary have an effect on the circulatory system. Besides stimulating blood vessels near the skin- especially the smaller capillary vessels – the chemicals found in rosemary act as an overall stimulant. The effect is actually rather mild, much more so than prescription medications given to those who suffer from hypotension.

There is no single cause of hypotension. Many individuals have low blood pressure because of their unusually large arteries. Those with a slow or faint heartbeat also have lower blood pressure. Rosemary does not speed up the heart rate, nor does it act as an adrenal stimulant. What it does is stimulate blood flow to every capillary in the body.

Rosemary does not appear to raise blood pressure in those with hypotension. Instead, it acts more like a catalyst, allowing other bodily systems to function in a more desirable state. Some people take rosemary to control hypertension, but medical experts have come to the conclusion that the herb can do more harm than good for those who have extremely high blood pressure. Diuretics in general remove excess water and salt from the body, and rosemary accomplishes this as well. However, the stimulation effect can become dangerous if the individual has certain other health problems or is already taking pharmaceutical drugs to aid in managing their hypertension. Taking rosemary in combination with prescribed diuretics can actually result in dehydration.

Rosemary And Capillary Stimulation

More recently, rosemary has been used as a treatment for hair loss. The medical community is rather split as to the reason for the effectiveness, but most research studies have concluded that it does indeed help recharge worn-out follicles. The herb has an irritating effect that increases blood flow near the skin surface. People with eczema often use rosemary as an aid in reducing pain and swelling.

It is theorized that rosemary can actually stimulate blood flow in the brain. Several studies have found that taking the herb on a daily basis may help in slowing the process of senility and memory loss. Although this has yet to be proven by medical science, rosemary is nonetheless taken by countless people worldwide who have entered their elderly years and who have heard of this claim.

Additional Health Benefits

Rosemary has been used to relieve heartburn, decrease flatulence, eliminate headache pain, and even control the pain symptoms associated with sciatica. As a pain reliever, rosemary has been proven to be an effective treatment for muscle discomfort. It also seems to aid in the release of toxin buildup in fat cells and along the neural pathways. The oils found in rosemary are used as an ingredient in specialized bath soaps. Most bath therapies include using soaps that contain rosemary oil.

How The Herb Is Used

Rosemary can be used as a spice for food. The herb is available in both needle and crushed form. Most people use rosemary to season meats, but it can be a flavorful addition to vegetables as well. The herb is sold in health food stores in the form of capsules or caplets. The capsules contain concentrated rosemary oil. Some manufacturers also produce teas that contain rosemary leaves or extract.

Before taking rosemary as a health-enhancing supplement, individuals should consult with their doctor. Rosemary interacts with a number of pharmaceutical drugs, especially those that increase blood flow or stimulate the circulatory system in general.

The post Rosemary appeared first on BloodPressureOK.com.

Lavender is an herb and is part of the mint family. It’s known for having a pungent yet pleasant scent and a nice violet hue. The flower part of the lavender plant is what is extracted to create a very unique and potent medicine. There are many different reasons to take advantage of lavender, not only does it provide a nice scent but it comes with a variety of health benefits as well. Some of the ailments that lavender has been known to help with are; restlessness, insomnia, nervousness, anxiety, stress, and depression.
We all experience a little anxiety and stress here and there, and there’s no doubt that we all can benefit from stress reduction in one way or another. Stress and anxiety are directly correlated with high blood pressure, and high blood pressure can have very negative consequences if left untreated. Because stress and anxiety can have such devastating effects, we should learn ways to cope and manage these aspects of our lives. For centuries lavender has been used in medicine, and is well known for its relaxing and therapeutic effect upon the nervous system. The great thing about lavender is that’s its relatively inexpensive and it doesn’t take much to notice a difference in your overall mood. And, for those wanting to stay away from prescription medications, lavender can help tremendously. Herbal remedies, including lavender, are generally safe and effective alternative treatments for a variety of health conditions.
There are a lot of different ways to incorporate lavender into your life. Some of the more popular forms are aromatherapy oils, lotions and bath gels, teas, tinctures, encapsulated pills, and of course, the flower itself. Due to the potency and convenience of lavender extracts, they can be the most effective form. You are able to carry a little vial around with you and use it wherever you go. It doesn’t hurt that it makes you smell good, too! Lavender extracts can be utilized in many different ways including diffusing the oil in your home or rubbing the oil into your temples, wrists, or neck. Just simply breathing in the extract will help calm your nerves and create a soothing atmosphere. After a long day at work, you can take a relaxing bath and add a few drops of lavender directly into the water. Or, some people enjoy diffusing the oil the morning while taking a hot shower.
Your nervous system plays a vital part in your life; it controls your body and the communication between its parts. Lavender works by stimulating the olfactory nerve within our nervous system and also the amygdala gland within your temporal lobe located in your brain. This is why it is believed to be so calming and powerful. Another great thing about lavender is it’s not only useful in reducing blood pressure but it also helps with a range of other issues and ailments. Some of the other uses for lavender can include; swell reduction for things like bee stings, pain reduction for minor cuts and burns, alleviating nausea or motion sickness, moisture for dry or chapped skin, stimulation for hair loss, and you can even use it in cooking! In general, lavender oil is a great thing to have around, it’s essential!
If you learn that you have high blood pressure, be sure to discuss your treatment plan with your doctor before trying new alternatives. Pairing a few lifestyle changes along with some natural herbs and remedies could help tremendously, in more ways than one. Lavender is powerful yet gentle and can be a great addition to your home and life in general. Be sure to share your experiences pertaining to lavender and high blood pressure with others, being open about your experiences might just help you and others along the way. Many suggest that you do your own research as well; you may find other beneficial ways to incorporate lavender into your life. Make sure that you experiment and find which ways work best for you, no one body works the same. It may mean something as simple as using some lavender shampoo to begin with then graduating to diffusing the oil in your home daily. Good luck in your endeavors!

The post Lavender appeared first on BloodPressureOK.com.

Although we try to take care of ourselves and seek medical treatment when necessary, one of the major concerns with many patients is the adverse side effects of prescription medications designed to make us feel better. In many cases, the patient’s initial problem may decrease only to be replaced with other problems caused by medication side effects. This is why so many patients are now choosing natural and herbal remedies. One plant that’s gaining particular attention is the passion flower, along with its many health benefits, particularly its use in fighting high blood pressure. Read more about this versatile plant.

What is Passion Flower?

Referred by many as a very striking vibrant plant, the passion flower has an appearance similar to a daisy in shape. One common strain of this plant has white flowers with yellow-tinged tips and purple “seeds’ in the center. There are more than 400 varieties of this versatile plant called the passion flower. It is also called by many other names such as wild passion flower, apricot vine, Apigenin and Jamaican honeysuckle, among others.

Many spiritual and religious traditions had the belief that this flower had spiritual and sacred qualities. It was named after the “passion of Christ’ because many believed it represented the crucifixion of Christ. Discovered in Peru, the passion fruit has been around since the late 1500s. Today it has even more uses and purposes. One of the flowers many benefits is its ability to treat and/or fight high blood pressure.

How Passion Flower Helps Against High Blood Pressure

High blood pressure or hypertension is often brought on by overstimulation of the nervous system. The passion flower has two components, beta-carboline alkaloids and chrysin, that provide health benefits for the nervous system. The alkaloids possess the same qualities as modern-day MAO inhibitors, which are used as a treatment for depression. Chrysin has been proven to be effective for relieving anxiety. By relieving both depression and anxiety, this planting is not only helping the nervous system but also relieving the patient of two problems that can contribute to high blood pressure.

Another way that the passion flower can help with high blood pressure is because of its ability to decrease stress, nervousness and anxiety – all contributing factors to high blood pressure. The passion flower also has components that relax the muscles in the blood vessels, which can help to lower the blood pressure. Although the passion flower may not be a proven treatment for high blood pressure, research has shown that it’s beneficial in treating or preventing the many conditions that can lead to high blood pressure. It’s also a healthful additive that does not fill the body with many unpleasant side effects, and it is not addictive.

What About Dosage?

The dosage in which patients take the passion flower may vary, based on age, weight and method in which it’s being used. Passion flower may be taken as a dried herb by some, while others may prefer to take it in a tincture or extract form. This plant can also be given as an infusion. People who choose to use passion flower on a regular basis often use the dry herbs in tea form. They may take from four to eight grams per day. Tea is a very popular method of consuming passion fruit.

Health Benefits of Passion Flower

In addition to its ability to fight high blood pressure, the passion flower has many other health benefits. The flowers, stem and leaves of the passion flower have been used for sedatives for many years in Native America. In Europe, the flowers of this plant are used in conjunction with other medications to treat anxiety, stress and heart palpitations.

Due to its ability to calm the nervous system, the passion flower is also used to treat neurological and psychological disorders. Although it can also be used as a mild pain reliever, this plant does not cause drowsiness that’s often experienced with many prescription pain relievers. This quality alone has made it popular with patients suffering from many ailments. The passion flower has also been linked with the treatment of Parkinson’s disease, as well as a method of treatment for drug addicts and alcoholics suffering from withdrawals.

It’s also used to treat the nausea and vomiting that are common side effects from prescription pain medications. Additionally, the above-ground parts of the passion flower are used to treat the following health issues:

• Muscle tension
• Emotional turmoil
• Insomnia
• Asthma
• Menopause symptoms
• Hyperactivity
• Epilepsy
• Seizures
• Fibromyalgia
• Chronic pain
• Various nervous disorders
• ADHD

The post Passion Flower appeared first on BloodPressureOK.com.

Rauwolfia (Rauwolfia serpentina) originated in South Asia and is a small, woody shrub whose roots contain a milky substance called Reserpine. Rauwolfia is used by many cultures all over the world for medicinal purposes (both internally and topically) and is reported to have calming effects with a cooling action. It has a bitter taste and is also known as serpentwood, Indian snakeroot and Lu Fu Mu. The plant’s roots were used in the form of a powdered tea as early as 600 B.C.E. in ancient Indian medicine.

Roughly 20, with some publications citing more, alkaloids have been isolated from Rauwolfia serpentina, including Reserpine. Noted as a prime alkaloid (indole) component of Rauwolfia root, reserpine appears to be the key factor for lowering high blood pressure, and can administered in a dosage as low as 0.1 to 0.25mg per day to treat hypertension. Unlike other blood-pressure lowering agents, the action method of Rauwolfia root is different because it affects the central nervous system. When used in the correct dosage and under the supervision of a trained herbalist or licensed physician.

Rauwolfia root extract is a reliable blood pressure lowering and tranquilizing agent, because it controls the heart rate, and the force of peripheral resistance and cardiac contraction. In the US, the raw root, as well as the Rauwolfia serpentina powder, extremely diluted amounts of the herb can be found in homeopathic formulations. It is also sold as a nutritional supplement in some holistic pharmacies for external applications and internal use and some health food stores. Reserpine is available in combination with other drugs that contain a vasodilator like hydralazine and/or a diuretic (these combinations are referred to as a second choice drugs) for the treatment of hypertension in some countries even today.

Hypertension can stem from genetic, race, age, gender, lifestyle, diet (including those who are salt sensitive or those with mineral deficiencies) and stress factors. However, the underlying cause of high blood pressure in as many as 95 percent of cases in the U.S. cannot be determined which is known as essential hypertension. Chronic hypertension can lead to serious health problems, such as stroke, heart attack and kidney failure. The effects of high blood pressure on specific organs are significantly impacted by high blood pressure.

Making healthy lifestyle changes and using a natural high blood lowering formulation containing Rauwolfia root can work to improve and extend a person’s life. Although Rauwolfia root has been documented as a hypotensive agent that has the ability to deplete catecholamines, (type of hormones known to strongly affect blood pressure of the heart and in the blood vessels), common sense should be used as when taking any other plant supplement. It is extremely important to follow dosage recommendations and not have the mindset that taking more of Rauwolfia serpentina is better. This is why people who decide to take this herb should do so starting with moderate doses. For personal safety, it is wise to heed any contraindications that may be documented and proactively research information and studies that have been written about Rauwolfia serpentina and monitor any reactions while taking it.

It is crucial to check with the physician about monitoring and managing the dosages to see if he or she can benefit from combined therapy. According to the conclusion of an international Indian cardiovascular physician, Dr. Rustom Jal Vakil, taking a whole root tincture of Rauwolfia serpentina appeared to improve overall tolerance of taking the formulation and reduced the risk of side effects that happen with the use of alkaloids that have been isolated. Further, dozens of mild to moderate high blood pressure patients who were given the whole root tincture of Raulwofia experienced lower blood pressure, of which some of these had hypertension that was stress-related.

Instead of taking conventional drugs, persons who have mild, moderate or chronic hypertension stage may decide to explore non-prescription treatment options to lower their high blood pressure using whole root tinctures or extracts of Rauwolfia serpentina.

Within pharmaceutical terms, Reserpine is considered to be low in toxicity and relatively safe. However, the use of Rauwolfia alkaloid containing herbs and preparations of known alkaloid content should be restricted to qualified practitioners and should be solely responsible for modifying a Rauwolfia serpentina supplement regimen.
Individuals contemplating taking a Rauwolfia supplement have a greater advantage of controlling their high blood pressure safely, since researchers widely understand the mechanism of action, the predicted effects, and the indications of Reserpine better today than they did when it was first introduced in the U.S. in the 1950s.

The post Rauwolfia appeared first on BloodPressureOK.com.

What is stinging nettle?

Urtica dioica, also known as stinging nettle, is an edible plant found in the United States as well as countries in Asia, Europe and Africa. The plant was given its more common name, stinging nettle, due to the fact that it produces bristly or “stinging” flowers, which are used as a source of food and for its purported health benefits

What makes stinging nettle so special?

Stinging nettle is a versatile and inexpensive food item. It can be used to make teas, soups, stews and salads. According to data culled from the US Forest Service (fs.fed.us), “Stinging nettle produces abundant seed. Plants growing in the shade produce approximately 500 to 5,000 seeds per shoot and plants growing in full sunlight produce 10,000 to 20,000 seeds per shoot.” So, it should come as no surprise to those interested in growing their own plants that, literally, thousands of stinging nettle seeds can be purchased online for less than $50.

What’s in stinging nettle?

Stinging nettle is rich in potassium—a mineral found in foods such as bananas, potatoes, white beans, greens, avocados and certain fish—which helps regulate blood pressure and improves overall heart function as well as maintaining fluid and electrolyte balance. Additionally, multiple studies have shown that stinging nettle can help improve an individual’s quality of life.

Currently, the FDA suggests individuals 14 years of age and older should consume 4,700 mg of potassium each day. Pregnant women are advised to consume 5,100 mg of potassium per day whereas the requirements for people under the age of 13 are anywhere from 3000-4500 mg based on their exact age.

When a person does not receive enough potassium he or she can develop hypertension, which puts those individuals at risk of suffering a stroke or heart attack. Conversely, as of the date of this article, too much potassium—amounts that far exceeds 5,100 mg per day—can be fatal.

Can stinging nettle replace prescriptions and over-the-counter supplements?

There is no concrete answer to that question because what works for one person may not work for another person; additionally, radical dietary changes are never advisable without consulting a health care specialist first, and this is especially true for individuals using prescription drugs.

Upon consulting his or her primary physician, a person may find that he or she can safely add stinging nettle to his or her diet and, possibly, use it in conjunction with synthetic medication. For example, two of the stinging nettle plant’s dietary perks are its calorie and potassium content. One cup of cooked stinging nettles has less than 50 calories, almost 300 mg of potassium and less than 4 mg of sodium. This is just one reason why health conscious individuals and naturopathic doctors advocate the use of stinging nettle for its many nutritional and medicinal benefits.

How exactly can stinging nettle help control hypertension?

Various studies have shown that the stinging nettle plant’s leaves and roots have beneficial diuretic and anti-inflammatory properties. These agents act as a blood thinner and they also helping the body fight water retention. Blood that is less likely to clot reduces a person’s chances of having a stroke or heart attack due to arterial blockage that typically occurs in people living with hypertension.

Is stinging nettle completely safe?

Contrary to popular belief, words like “all natural” and “alternative” do not necessarily mean products bearing such labels are safer than synthetic drugs. Even with all of its professed benefits, stinging nettle can cause a number of serious side effects. For example, pregnant and breast-feeding women, people with known kidney and heart health issues, diabetics and individuals with certain allergies or respiratory conditions may not be able to tolerate stinging nettle. The plant can also be counterproductive for people using prescribed sedatives, blood thinners, etc.

There have been reports of spontaneous abortions happening to pregnant women due to agents in stinging nettle that cause uterine contractions. Individuals with compromised renal systems may find themselves urinating more than normal, which may put undue stress on their kidneys. Some diabetics have experienced significant drops in blood glucose levels, which can be dangerous. Similarly, some people living with hypertension may experience dangerous drops in blood pressure when using stinging nettle. These are just a few reasons why it is imperative that individuals interested in adding stinging nettle to their diets consult their respective health care providers first.

The post Stinging nettle appeared first on BloodPressureOK.com.

Hawthorn berries are one of the most popular herbs for treating cases of high blood pressure. In fact, the properties of the berry are considered to be a tonic for the cardiovascular system and help to promote proper blood circulation. Thanks to these benefits, this herb is often classed as a blood pressure regulator. That means along with helping to lower high levels of blood pressure, hawthorn berries can also help people with low blood pressure.

What is Hawthorn?

The proper name for hawthorn berries is Crategnus Oxycantha. The plant is usually considered to be part of the rose family, and is sometimes used as a shrub. Blossoms of red, white, or pink tend to bloom during certain times of the year. These qualities alone often make it sought after as a shrub that remains green during cooler weather and then adds color to the yard during the warmer months.

While the blooms are sometimes harvested for use in herbal formulas, it is the berry of the hawthorn plant is most commonly used for treating health issues, including blood pressure. The tiny red berries tend to appear right before the blooming and continue throughout the growing season. Hawthorn plants tend to do best in temperate climates, but can also be cultivated in green houses.

What’s in Hawthorn Berries?

The nutritional content of hawthorn berries is responsible for its benefits to blood pressure regulation and a strong cardiovascular and nervous system. A dose will be high in vitamin C and selenium, both of which are know to help fight inflammation and help clear the bloodstream. Moderate amounts of calcium and potassium are also present. These nutrients help to calm the nerves, something that is very important to the process of maintaining a reasonable level of pressure in the bloodstream. The smaller amounts of vitamin A, magnesium and phosphorus also help to minimize the potential for hardening of the arteries, which in turn makes it easier for the blood pressure to remain within normal limits.

Trace amounts of other nutrients are also found in the berries. All of these help to support health for the body and mind, and can aid in helping to clear the system of excessive amounts of cholesterol. These trace nutrients include zinc, silicon, iron, manganese, and some of the B vitamins.

Is There a Specific Reaction that Has to Do With Blood Pressure?

While much of the impact of hawthorn berries on the blood pressure has to do with overall cardiovascular health, there is one reaction that has a direct impact on high levels. This has to do with the relaxing of the blood vessels that are further away from the heart. Along with helping to improve heart function, relaxing those remote vessels means that it is easier for the heart to pump blood throughout the body. That in turn means there is less need for pressure to accomplish proper circulation.

How Long Does it Take to See Results?

Like most herbs, hawthorn does take some time to get into the system. How quickly that takes place depends on the individual. Some people are likely to notice a difference in a matter of days. Others may require more than a month before there is any measurable difference in blood pressure levels. During this time, careful monitoring and attention to the diet is very important.

Are There Chances of Side Effects?

Many people can take hawthorn without experiencing any side effects at all. Even those who do have some sort of adverse reaction find that it is mild and only lasts for a short time. Some examples include and upset stomach, insomnia, sweating, and possibly some fatigue. Many herbalists recommend using hawthorn for no more than four months, then taking a short break before resuming use.

In terms of interactions with medications, it is important to note that hawthorn can interfere with the function of any medications that are intended to increase the heart rate or increase the rate of blood flow through the body. The blood pressure lowering properties of the herb can also increase the effects of blood pressure medication, sometimes to levels that are dangerous. For men who are taking any type of medication for erectile dysfunction, it is important to note that since those drugs also sometimes work by lowering blood pressure, combining them with the use of hawthorn may cause a drop that leads to fainting or other serious problems.

If you currently take any type of prescription blood pressure medication, talk with your doctor before ceasing use. Discuss the use of hawthorn as a natural way to regulate your blood pressure. Once you begin the regimen, monitor the results regularly and let your doctor know how the herb is working for you. With a little luck, you’ll find that hawthorn controls your blood pressure and also improves your health in general.

The post Hawthorn appeared first on BloodPressureOK.com.

Often considered a part of a common Christmas tradition, there is more to mistletoe than just kissing under it. Historically known as a symbol of fertility as well as an aphrodisiac, the herb has resurfaced as an effective natural remedy for a number of common maladies in recent years. Its unique origin and active chemical compounds make it a plant of mystery and intrigue as well as usefulness and worth.

What is Mistletoe?

Mistletoe is a unique plant. Considered a hemiparasite, or a “partial parasite,” mistletoe earns this unique classification as it actually attaches to and grows on another organism, similar to a traditional parasite. After attaching itself to the host plant, mistletoe sends roots into the tree that allow it to collect vital nutrients. Mistletoe is unique in that it is also able to photosynthesize and grow on its own; however, it is most often found growing parasitically to some extent.

Mistletoe grows in two main forms: Phoradendron flavescens and Viscum album. The former, Phoradendron flavescens, is the mistletoe often seen and used in Christmas decorations. This species of mistletoe typically grows on the East Coat of the United States. The latter, Viscum album, originated and comes from Europe. Ancient peoples originally discovered this form of mistletoe and believed that it held mystical powers. This class of mistletoe typically has green leaves with sticky white berries and small yellow flowers. The berries of this plant are poisonous.

How Does Mistletoe Treat High Blood Pressure?

While mistletoe does have more purpose than just serving as décor, it is not the mystical substance that early Europeans thought it was. Mistletoe is actually an herbal substance that is effective for treating a number of health conditions. One of the most important benefits it has is treating high blood pressure.

Mistletoe contains a number of potent chemical compounds, several of which are lecithins. These compounds or proteins bind to toxic agents in the body and eliminate infection and other forms of illness. Working in the same way, the treatment alleviates high blood pressure by removing toxic substances from the body and breaking down plaque and buildup in the arteries.

Does It Have Other Health Benefits?

Mistletoe is not just a treatment for high blood pressure, though. The herb can also be used to treat a wide range of other health conditions. The leaves and stems possess the most beneficial compounds. Additional constituents of the herb include amines, antioxidant flavonoids, and terpenoids. These components work together to give mistletoe its effective potency.

Mistletoe can also be used to treat epilepsy, anxiety, fatigue, arthritis, vertigo, and inflammation of the joints. It is also effective for preventing cancer and treating hepatitis, HIV, respiratory disease, hyperthyroidism, diarrhea, gastroenteritis, nausea, gingivitis, and a number of other conditions.

How is Mistletoe Used?

The herb can be found in a variety of forms used for treatment; however, such use should be overseen by a trained herbal practitioner. Common usage preparations include mistletoe tea, injectable doses, mistletoe extract, and combined tinctures. The herb is typically not used alone but is paired with other herbal remedies for the most effective remedy.

What are the Dosage Recommendations?

The recommended dosage varies depending on use as well as treatment option. Common treatments for hypertension, however, generally use mistletoe fruit to make a tea with a concentration of 10 grams per day. Common treatments for cancer therapy are delivered intravenously or subcutaneously at dosages between 0.1 and 30 mg several times a week. The common doses can also be given in incrementally increased amounts if appropriately monitored by a trained professional.

Are There Potential Side Effects?

Like many other herbal remedies and even mainstream medications, mistletoe presents limited side effects. When used as an injection, the site of the injection may appear red, itchy, or inflamed. Likewise, some individuals have experienced systemic reactions that manifested as a mild fever or in flu-like symptoms. A few cases of anaphylactic shock have been reported in conjunction with mistletoe dosing.

Is It Safe?

While mistletoe is considered a safe treatment option by trained professionals, the United States Food and Drug Administration lists the plant as unsafe. As such, mistletoe treatments are best left to professional herbalists. In any case, though, data presents no cause for concern. No interactions have been identified, and the prevalence of side effects has been limited. As the berries may contain toxic constituents, use is not recommended for those who are pregnant or nursing.

Many individuals recognize mistletoe as a happy holiday tradition; however, the benefits of mistletoe extend far beyond the holiday season. This unique plant can be used as an effective herbal remedy all year round.

The post Mistletoe appeared first on BloodPressureOK.com.