The heart is an organ we cannot live without. It moves the blood and propels it to various blood vessels throughout the body. When you really think about the process, it is truly amazing! “One of the most important functions of the heart is to help maintain the homeostasis of the pressure that blood exerts on the blood vessels, also known as blood pressure or hypertension. Proper and healthy circulation and function of blood throughout the body is critical for health and even for sustaining life.”
According to the CDC, as well as the American Heart Association, one in three adults has high blood pressure and this number is on the rise. In adulthood this tendency leads to morbid heart diseases, which now head the list of mortality in developed countries. Not to mention even children are coming into their pediatricians office with these same issues, mostly due to obesity.
Some risk factors, such as family history, are out of our control, but things like stress, smoking and drinking can be managed. Some other conditions such as diabetes and high cholesterol levels should also be followed up. This is why it is a good idea to see a healthcare provider once a year for a complete physical, to include blood work.
So what can we do naturally to tame our blood pressure?
There are many ways to manage this without medication. Two major changes you can make are diet and exercise. You can also use essential oils. You may not have heard of them or maybe you have. They have been around for centuries and are regaining popularity as people are getting back to a natural way of living. Essential oils are derived from plants. They are a great alternative to modern medicine. Just make sure the oils you are using come from a trusted source. There are a lot of great companies out there that produce them. Talk to friends, family members and a healthcare provider in regards to using them.
According to the book, Essential Oils Ancient Medicine, the top four essential oils to relieve high blood pressure are as follows:
- Clary Sage – relaxes the arteries. Supports healthy circulation.
- Ylang Ylang – known to improve blood flow and fight inflammation.
- Frankincense – has sedative properties, promotes relaxation.
- Lavender – helps to reduce stress, which is a cause of high blood pressure.
It is also suggested to use Omega-3 and Magnesium supplements.
There are also issues that can arise with low blood pressure known as hypotension. The symptoms include dizziness, fainting, blurred vision, nausea, fatigue and lack of concentration. They may result from various medical condition. More than likely they are connected to something like getting up to fast, but it is always a good idea to have the issue checked if it is happening often.
According to the book, Essential Oils Ancient Medicine, the top four essential oils to relieve low blood pressure are as follows:
- Rosemary – reduces nerve tension and occasional fatigue.
- Ginger – helps relieve nausea, encourages blood circulation.
- Bergamot – improves mood. Also serves as a natural antidepressant.
- Holy Basil – regulates cortisol levels (stress hormones): this helps with cardiovascular function.
Oils can be diffused aromatically or used topically with a carrier oil. A good way to use them topically would be by using a reflexology chart.
Earlier I mentioned pairing supplements along with natural ways to help combat hypertension. You can take capsules that contain them, such as Omega-3. The best way to get the supplements your body needs is to change your diet. Some supplements, such as garlic, can widen blood vessels making it easier for the blood to travel throughout the body. Then the heart does not have to work as hard.
What is a natural alternative to essential oils? Shilajit is a new natural product to the Western World but the centuries-old Indian ayurvedic remedy which consists at least of 85 minerals. It dilates blood vessels, improves elasticity, stabilizes the work of the heart muscle. Taking shilajit significantly reduces the unpleasant symptoms of hypertension: a headache and retrosternal pain, tachycardia, weakness, swelling, etc.
After reviewing multiple sources, the main four foods that help lower blood pressure are:
- Beetroot – can be added to smoothies or to compliment a meal.
- Flaxseed – can be added to smoothies.
- Garlic – can be added to multiple dishes or taken in gel caps.
- Pistachio – can be eaten as a snack.
There are also relaxation techniques that can be practiced such as medication and yoga to reduce stress
In conclusion, there are many natural ways to control blood pressure. One of the most efficient ways is to make changes to your body’s dietary needs. The high sodium diet which is common about the western people results in an increased peripheral resistance and the development of high blood pressure. All you need is to cut down on sodium intake, and add Potassium, which balances out the sodium absorption. Potassium is also known to oppose the effect of some other chemical agents, linked to the onset of high blood pressure. Thus, a steady diet of low-sodium and high in potassium foods like bananas, pomegranates, avocado, apricots, and nuts can have long term positive effects on not only keeping your blood pressure at a reasonable and sustainable balance, but also providing great sources to keep your body cleansed and physically fit. Even just walking on a regular basis can play a major role in keeping your body and blood pressure stabilized reducing the risk of heart disease and stroke. Everything in moderation. When you eat better, you feel better. You might consider talking to a nutritionist to get you started on health diet changes. It is always a good idea to talk to your healthcare provider as sometimes even natural solutions can interact with our body chemistry or other things you may be taking. Do your research, listen to your body and remember; everything in life is about balance.
