Natural Blood Pressure Supplements
In addition to prescription drugs, some people turn to natural supplements for blood pressure management. There are several ingredients found in natural blood pressure supplements. Many of these ingredients have been shown to lower blood pressure, increase oxygen levels in the blood, and maintain heart health. Some of these ingredients include Garlic, Hawthorn berries, and olive leaf extract.
Olive Leaf Extract
Olive leaf extract is an effective natural blood pressure supplement. Research shows that it can significantly reduce systolic and diastolic blood pressure. It can also lower triglycerides. It was studied against Captopril, a commonly prescribed drug for high blood pressure. The results of the study indicated that olive leaf extract reduced both systolic and diastolic blood pressure and triglyceride levels significantly. In addition, the extract was shown to improve artery wall muscles.
Hawthorn Berries
Hawthorn berries are one of the most popular natural blood pressure supplements, but there are some caveats to its use. It may interfere with certain medications. For example, hawthorn may decrease the effectiveness of drugs that lower cholesterol. Hawthorn may not be safe for pregnant women or anyone with high blood pressure.
Omega-3 Fatty Acids
Studies have shown that omega-3 fatty acids, which are found in fish oil supplements, can lower blood pressure just as effectively as lifestyle changes. Hypertension, a condition characterized by elevated blood pressure, affects 70 million people in the United States and is a major contributor to heart attack and stroke. Only about 47 percent of those with hypertension have their blood pressure under control.
Niacin (B3)
Niacin (B3) is a nutrient found naturally in fish, nuts, and seeds. It helps to regulate blood pressure and improve circulation. It also helps to reduce cholesterol levels in the body. It is commonly taken by people with heart problems. However, niacin has some potential side effects, and it is not advisable for everyone.
Vitamin B6
Vitamin B6 is an important vitamin for lowering blood pressure. It is also helpful in the treatment of Alzheimer’s disease, dementia, ADHD, Down syndrome, autism, and a variety of other conditions. Vitamin B6 helps to maintain healthy cholesterol levels and reduces homocysteine levels, two components of high blood pressure. Studies have also shown that vitamin B6 can help prevent atherosclerosis and hardening of the arteries.
Garlic Powder
Garlic has long been used to treat high blood pressure, but the science behind garlic’s effectiveness isn’t clear. While it may help lower blood pressure in the short term, there are no long-term studies, and most studies have small sample sizes. Garlic supplements may also interact with some medications.