The World Health Organization estimates that 600 million people with high blood pressure (HBP) are at risk of heart attack, stroke and cardiac failure.
Some of the main causes of high blood pressure are unhealthy diet, sedentary lifestyles and stress. While we can’t get rid of the stress completely, but we can make certain corrections in our diet and lifestyle to fight hypertension. Including certain herbs in our daily lives can be extremely beneficial in helping us lead a happy and balanced life.
Ayurvedic Herbs To Control High Blood Pressure
Brahmi
This is a well-known herb for reducing stress. It decreases the levels of the stress hormone and enhances the power of concentration. Brahmi leaves can be used to make a tea that helps you calm down and relieve stress.
Bhringraj
Bhringraj tea helps in detoxifying the body and energizing the brain by an increased supply of oxygen. You can also use bhringraj oil to massage your scalp, which will have calming effects on your mind and body.
Ashwagandha
Ashwagandha promotes restorative sleep and balances energies in the body to reduce insomnia and boost energy and stamina. Take a daily dose of 1-2 tsp of the dried ashwagandha root powder to reduce stress and anxiety.
Amla
Amla has been proven to be very effective in lowering blood pressure. Amla juice, if taken on an empty stomach with one glass of water can save you from various kinds of ailments in a long run. It is considered one of the best fruits in preventing heart failure and advanced stage problems like hypertension. Being a rich source of Vitamin C, it helps in widening the blood vessel and reducing blood cholesterol levels.
Arjun
Arjun is one of the most famous herbs known today. It has many effective medicinal uses especially for the heart and circulatory system which make it such a valuable herbal component in the treatment of heart problems in Ayurveda.
Shankhapushpi
Shankhpushpi or Shyamaktanta is a perennial herb and is used for its medicinal benefits. The herb is beneficial in treating high blood pressure. Take the powder of the herb (2-4 gm) thrice a day. Shankhapushpi sharbat can be taken as a single herb or adjuvant to other modern medicines.
(Dr Partap Chauhan, Director of Jiva Ayurveda, is an author, public speaker and Ayurvedacharya)
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