High blood pressure during pregnancy: natural high blood pressure remedies herbs

Subtitle: Understanding the root causes, recognizing warning signs, and discovering natural solutions for a healthier heart.

Health Reporter

In today's fast-paced world, it is not uncommon to find oneself battling high blood pressure (BP). Often dubbed as a "silent killer," hypertension affects millions worldwide, leading to severe heart complications if left untreated. This article delves into the fascinating world of natural remedies, providing valuable insights on what to do if your BP is high, understanding normal BP levels, factors that influence BP, and introducing a selection of herbal allies that can help manage this condition.

**What to do if my BP is high?**

If you suspect that your BP might be elevated, seek professional advice immediately. Your healthcare provider will administer the appropriate tests and suggest lifestyle changes or medication based on your results. However, working with nature does not mean neglecting medical advice - always consult a doctor before self-medicating.

**Normal BP for males and females**

Normal BP for adults (aged 18 and above) is typically less than 120/80 mmHg. Values higher than 130/80 mmHg are considered prehypertensive, while 140/90 mmHg and above indicate hypertension. It is essential to keep an eye on BP levels and make lifestyle adjustments if necessary.

**Factors influencing BP**

Several factors contribute to increased BP: genetics, age, obesity, stress, sedentary lifestyle, tobacco use, excessive alcohol consumption, poor diet, and chronic kidney disease are among the most common culprits. Identifying these contributing factors helps in determining the best course of action for managing one's BP.

**Average BP for teenagers**

Adolescents aged 13-18 follow the same norms as adults regarding normal BP levels. In general, a teenager's BP should be lower than an adult's due to their overall good health and more active lifestyle. Nonetheless, hypertension can still occur in teenagers - particularly those who are overweight or have a family history of the condition - so regular check-ups are recommended.

**What causes high BP?**

The exact cause of high BP often remains unknown, but several possible factors have been identified. These include damage to the arteries in the kidneys, defects in the hormone system that regulates the body's fluid balance, narrowing or thickening of the arteries due to atherosclerosis, and genetics. Other risk factors mentioned earlier also play a significant role in developing high BP.

**Natural high BP remedies:** **Herbs that could save your life**

Luckily, Mother Nature offers an array of powerful healing agents that may help manage high BP naturally. Here's a rundown of some notable options:

1. Hawthorn Berry: Known for its cardiovascular benefits, hawthorn berries have been shown to dilate blood vessels and decrease peripheral resistance, thereby lowering BP levels over time. Rich in antioxidants, hawthorn berries protect heart tissue from oxidative stress caused by high cholesterol levels or tobacco smoke.

2. Garlic: A well-researched culinary powerhouse known for lowering both systolic and diastolic BP. Garlic works by relaxing blood vessel walls and thinning the blood - making it easier for it to flow through arteries without putting excess pressure on them. Regular consumption of fresh garlic is recommended for optimal effects.

3. Celery Seed: An excellent source of phthalide compounds that are believed to work similarly to prescription medication for reducing BP by dilating blood vessels and inhibiting stress hormones released during times of anxiety or anger. The recommended dose is 3-6 grams per day in divided doses. Note that large amounts can cause potassium loss and related side effects like irregular heartbeat or muscle weakness.

4. Ginger: A popular spice used in cooking and traditional medicine, ginger exhibits antioxidant properties that support cardiovascular health by preventing plaque buildup in the arteries. Moreover, ginger has vasodilatory effects - meaning it helps relax the smooth muscles lining the walls of blood vessels - which ultimately reduces BP without causing any adverse side effects.

5. Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Found in fish oil supplements and certain foods like flaxseeds and walnuts, omega-3 fatty acids help maintain healthy heart function by lowering triglycerides (fats found in the blood), reducing inflammation, and decreasing arrhythmias (abnormal heart rhythms). Fish oil supplements containing EPA (eicosapentaenoic acid) and DHA (docosahexaenoic acid) have been clinically proven to lower BP in both healthy individuals and those with existing hypertension.

Remember, while these natural remedies offer promising benefits for managing high BP, they are not magic bullets - always consult your healthcare provider before incorporating them into your treatment plan. Maintaining a balanced diet rich in whole foods, exercising regularly, limiting salt intake, managing stress levels, quitting smoking, moderating alcohol consumption, and keeping track of your BP readings are equally important steps towards maintaining optimal cardiovascular health.