Blood Pressure

Blood Pressure

Blood pressure is one of the leading causes of death in today’s society.  This is a problem that plaques so many of us in western civilization and around the world. With proper nutrition, exercise and herbal remedies the life altering effects of high blood pressure can reduce or completely dissolve. Herbal remedies have existed for centuries as a form of healing. Herbs if used properly have little if any side effects and are usually not habitual. When it comes to balancing blood pressure, an herbal infusion is a simple, effective remedy that may be used.

            When using an infusion for blood pressure I would recommend infusing a few herbs together for a satisfactory benefit. Motherwort, Yarrow, Hawthorn, Basil, celery and a squeeze of fresh lemon juice all have properties that are known to have a positive impact on high blood pressure. The infusion would consist of one teaspoon of dried herb or two teaspoons of fresh herbs in equal parts to one cup of boiling water. Ideally, the herbs should be whole, cut into small pieces.  Infuse the herbs in the water for ten minutes and then strain. You can drink this warm or chill for a refreshing cup of herbal iced tea. This tea can be used up to three times per day. A tea once made, is good if used within a twenty-four hour period. I would advise to disregard any unused portion after the twenty-four hour mark.

            In this blood pressure blend, the five herbs used have an array of properties that show a significant contribution to the stabilizing of high blood pressure. The first herb stated is the bitter tasting, motherwort. Motherwort shows sedative, hypotensive, antispasmodic, nervine, diuretic and carminative properties as well as being a cardiac tonic. Motherwort supports blood circulation, dissolves blood clots and removes arthersclerosis. It can decrease instances of heart dysfunctions including heart neuralgia, palpitations and angina. Motherwort should not be used during pregnancy or while lactating.

            The second herb in the infusion is the warm bitter yet spicy Yarrow. Yarrow shows diaphoretic, anti-inflammatory, carminative, anti-spasmodic, astringent, hemostatic, and antipyretic properties. Yarrow is used to regulate blood, control hypertension and protect against thrombosis. There are no known side effects when using Yarrow.

            Hawthorn is the third ingredient used in the brew. Hawthorn is a sweet and sour herb known to improve circulation and regulate the heart rate, blood pressure and coronary blood flow. Hawthorn is also labeled a diuretic and an antioxidant. Hawthorn can be used to remedy most heart problems due to its capabilities of lowering high blood pressure and raising low blood pressure. Although hawthorn is a gentile herb, it may increase the action of some heart medications.

            Basil is the fourth herb in the brew. Basil aids in the fight against high blood pressure by lowering stress, tension, cholesterol and blood sugar levels. Basil is an antispasmodic, anti-inflammatory, adaptogen, cleanser and detoxifier. There are no known side effects of basil.

            Celery is the last herb in the tea. Celery seed is a blood cleanser and a diuretic. Celery is known to lower blood pressure, aid in weight loss and detoxify the body. Celery is not to be used in high quantities by pregnant women.

            To add a bit of flavor and aroma a squeeze of fresh lemon juice will top off the tea. Lemon juice is also known to have a benefit when it comes to high blood pressure. Lemon is a natural anti-inflammatory and diuretic. Lemon also attributes positive effects to blood circulation.

            This herbal infusion is a quick, efficient way to aid in the ongoing problem of high blood pressure. A great reason for the use of this tea is that it does not take a lot of time, tastes good and has so many positive contributions. Use this formula along with exercise and proper nutrition to overcome the potentially fatal occurrence of high blood pressure.

Citations

• Mowrey, D. B. (1986). The scientific validation of herbal medicine how to remedy and prevent disease with herbs, vitamins, minerals, and other nutrients. Lehi, UT: Cormorant Books.

• Tierra, M. (1990). The way of herbs fully updated –with the latest developments in herbal science. New York: Pocket Books.

Mabey, R., & McIntyre, M. (1988). The New age herbalist how to use herbs for healing, nutrition, body care, and relaxation. New York: Collier Books