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High blood pressure is a condition where the pressure put on the artery walls is higher than normal. This pressure - if left untreated - can damage major areas of the body. High blood pressure is linked to heart attack, enlarged heart, kidney damage and hardening of the arteries. Your doctor will diagnose you by taking several blood pressure readings over several months. Because there usually aren't any symptoms, you may have high blood pressure and not know it.
Be aware that herbs and supplements are not strictly regulated by the Food and Drug Administration. Do not assume if a product is considered "natural" that it is harmless. Many substances do not have sound science behind them to prove their safety or how well they work. Manufacturers may not be giving you what you think you are getting, or the way the substance is processed may be unhealthy or unsafe.
With many of these products, doctors do not know enough about them. Herbs and supplements may interact with prescription and over-the-counter medications or can worsen your health conditions. Consider that some supplements, such as vitamin A, may be unsafe when taken in mega doses.
It is strongly advised that you talk to your doctor before taking any supplement or herb. If you are taking an herb or supplement and notice any unusual symptoms, stop taking the substance immediately and talk to your doctor.
| Herb or supplement |
Claims |
Possible Interactions, Side Effects and Dangers |
What the experts say |
| Flaxseed |
Helps lower high blood pressure. |
May increase the risk of bleeding when used with anticoagulants (blood thinners) or over-the-counter pain relievers. Can also interact with lithium, a medication for bipolar disorder. People with allergies to flaxseed, flaxseed oil or any member of the Linaceae or Linum plant families should not take flaxseed. May cause rashes, weakness, hives, itching, paralysis, seizure, shortness of breath, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, mania and prostate cancer. |
Studies that say flaxseed can treat high blood pressure are weak, small and flawed. Study results have not been consistent. The jury is still out as to whether flaxseed can help with cholesterol. Talk to your doctor first. |
| Garlic |
Helps lower high blood pressure. |
People with allergies to the plants in the Liliaceae family should not take garlic. May cause asthmatic reactions. Internal bleeding may develop if you are taking garlic as supplements or are eating high levels of garlic. May interact with blood thinners, aspirin, cholesterol-lowering medications and thyroid medications. Can also affect blood sugar levels. Bad breath and body odor may occur. In high doses, may also cause stomach disorders and diarrhea. |
A few studies say garlic may lower blood pressure. But more research needs to be done. Raw garlic, rather than supplements, might be a better choice. |
| Coenzyme Q10 |
Helps lower high blood pressure. |
May increase the risk of blood clots and bleeding. May interact with anticoagulants (blood thinners) or cholesterol-lowering drugs. Possible side effects are stomach discomfort, nausea, vomiting, insomnia, headache and sensitivity to light. |
Some studies say using coenzyme Q10 may help lower blood pressure, but more research is needed before anyone can make this claim. Also, it is not clear just how much is safe and effective. |
| Ginseng |
Helps lower high blood pressure. |
May interact with medications to treat blood sugar and drugs called diuretics, which treat high blood pressure. Can interact with central nervous system stimulants, steroids, hormone replacement and anti-psychotics. Drowsiness,
insomnia, headache, rash, sensitivity to the sun, upset stomach, heartburn, diarrhea or constipation have been reported.
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Poorly designed studies do suggest ginseng may help with lowering high blood pressure. It is not known how much is too much or if ginseng actually works. More research is needed. |
| Omega-3 oils (includes cod liver oil and fish oils) |
Reduces blood clotting, protects the heart, dilates blood vessels and reduces inflammation. |
High doses of fish oil or other omega-3 supplements can reduce how well your body can clot blood. High doses in some people may even increase cholesterol levels. May increase blood sugar levels. May also bring on a manic episode in someone with bipolar disorder. May lead to stomach upset, diarrhea, heartburn and skin rashes. |
A diet high in omega-3 fatty acids can be highly effective for protecting you from heart disease. Skip the supplements and get your omega-3s by eating fatty fish like salmon twice a week. If you can't get enough through diet, talk to your doctor before taking supplements. |
Dietary modifications
Follow a diet rich in fruits and vegetables, and stay away from fatty meats like beef. Also watch your sodium intake. Whole grains found in breads and cereals can help your heart health. Remember to exercise regularly - 30 minutes most days of the week.
This article was reviewed and updated June 2007.
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