5 High Blood Pressure Healing Foods, Herbs and Spices

image

High blood pressure (hypertension) is called the “silent killer” because often, there will be no signs or symptoms to warn people that there is a problem. However, it can lead to a number of complications, the most serious being incidents like heart attacks, strokes or kidney damage. While there are a number of medications on the market to help treat this, there are also a number of natural ways to lower the blood pressure, such as consuming the foods and spices listed below.

Beetroot Juice

Scientists have recently discovered that drinking a cup of beetroot juice daily can have a significant impact on the blood pressure. Research shows that this is likely due to its high nitrate content. Once it enters the body, this is converted into nitrite and eventually to nitric acid, which is a natural vasodilator. This means that it opens and relaxes the blood vessels and makes blood flow easier, both of which can lower the blood pressure. Research is now being done to investigate the boost to cardiac health that could come from other high-nitrate sources such as leafy green vegetables. (Source)

Cayenne Pepper

Although some people may object to the use of this spice because of its strong taste, it is one of the fastest-acting foods to lower the blood pressure. Like the nitrate in beetroot juice, compounds in cayenne pepper act to expand the diameter of the blood vessels, which improves overall circulation and decreases the blood pressure naturally. Cayenne can be consumed simply by using it in cooking like any other spice; it can also be used in a tea or taken in the form of a capsule. (Source)

Almonds

More and more research is confirming that array of benefits that come from consuming nuts in general. Specifically, almonds are probably one of the best nut choices, especially for cardiac health. They are rich in flavonoids and Omega-3 fatty acids (proven to extremely heart healthy) and potassium (which helps to regulate the blood pressure). They are also rich in the “good” monounsaturated fat that helps reduce inflammation around the coronary arteries and ultimately also reduce blood pressure. ( sources)

Garlic

Many people think of garlic in relation to how well it supports the immune system and help fight off viruses. However, it can also be good for heart health. This is because of its active ingredient allicin. This compound has strong antibacterial and antiviral properties, but it has anti-hypertensive properties as well and will lower both cholesterol and blood pressure, both of which can reduce the risk of heart disease. (Sources)

Turmeric

Popular in curries and other Indian dishes, this spice’s active compound is called curcumin and it helps to lower the blood pressure through its strong anti-inflammatory powers (inflammation is one of the risk factors for high blood pressure in the first place). It also improves cardiovascular health by widening the arteries and improving blood flow. (Sources)

The great thing is that these are all foods that can fit easily into the diet and are not expensive or difficult to prepare. However, they can all have major positive effects upon heart health and, from there, on general well-being.

More From Mayimina

5 Things You Should Know About Pure Caffeine Powder

10 Surprising Uses for Baking Soda

10 Hidden Health Secrets of Lemons

Mayimina
Mayimina has written articles on most health-related topics, including traditional medicine, alternative and naturopathic and natural treatments, wellness, medical marijuana, diets and fitness.