Strict deadlines, fast paced lifestyles, frozen GM food, alcohol and smoking have opened doors for chronically stressed bodies and minds. This stress has fathered many complications in today’s man. Statistics have given an alarming figure of people suffering from high blood pressure and hypertension. Mankind now is reverting back to the lap of Mother Nature for its problems. Instead of turning to allopathic medicine people want something right out of the heart of nature to calm their hypertensive nerves. There are some essential oils for high blood pressure extracted from plant roots, flowers or leaves. In this article you will find a complete guide of how to get a normal blood pressure by using natural remedies. (Please make sure to read first this article ‘All You Need to Know About Blood Pressure‘)
Contents
- 1. Top Essential Oils for High Blood Pressure (Hypertension)
- 2. Other Essential Oils for High Blood Pressure (Hypertension)
- 3. How to Use Essential Oils for High Blood Pressure?
- 4. Best Essential Oils Recipes for High Blood Pressure
- 5. Essential Oils to Avoid When Having High Blood Pressure
- 6. Natural Supplements to Help Reduce High Blood Pressure
- 7. Home Remedies, Teas and Herbs to Lower High Blood Pressure
- 8. Life Style Tips for a Normal Blood Pressure
1. Top Essential Oils for High Blood Pressure (Hypertension)
Now you might be wondering how an essential oil will do this magic. Well, essential oils when massaged into the body enter into our bloodstream through our sweat glands or follicle cells. From there they enter the body fluids.
They can enter our body though another medium and that is aromatherapy. Small molecules of the essential oil enter our lungs. So when the blood comes into the lungs for oxygenation they enter the blood stream and do the desired magic. This magic is dilating our constricted arteries that cause high blood pressure. Some essential oils for high blood pressure are discussed below.
1.1) Lavender Essential Oil
No one can deny the importance of antioxidants in our body that help to deplete chemicals and toxins. Sometimes our body needs antioxidants from the outside world and how great it would be to furnish our body with a natural antioxidant from lavender. This oil can be used in aromatherapy and help soothe stressed nerves leading to lowered blood pressure. For centuries it has been used to treat stress, anxiety, depression, emotional imbalance. Its constituents are esters and alcohols and they work wonders on tired nerves. It is one of the best essential oils both when used alone or with a mix of other essential or carrier oils.
1.2) Marjoram Essential Oil
This oil has a calming effect on the body and relaxes all senses. It has been known to dilate constricted nerves which in turn lower blood pressure. Its sweet aromatic smell warms the body cells in aromatherapy and neutralizes body stresses and depressions. It is used extensively in Indian Ayurvedic industry for curing blood pressure and anxiety.
1.3) Ylang Ylang Essential Oil
Ylang Ylang is one of the top essential oils for high blood pressure which not only lowers blood pressure but along with that it has antiseptic properties. Its aroma works on both body and mind and brings down stress.
1.4) Clary Sage Essential Oil (Salvia Sclarea)
It has been used since ancient times. It performs a function of relaxing the blood arteries. Because of relaxation of arteries the blood circulation is improved. This leads to lowering of blood pressure. The body cells receive more oxygen if the clay sage essential oil is used for aromatherapy purposes.
1.5) Frankincense Essential Oil
It is also known as Olibanum. It works against anxiety and depression and helps to reduce constant mental over thinking. In aromatherapy it acts as an anti depressant, sedative and a regulator of blood pressure. An interesting fact is that during meditation, yoga or any spiritual ceremony the aroma of this essential oil is used to create calming effect.
2. Other Essential Oils for High Blood Pressure (Hypertension)
Essential oils if used in right quantity and at the right time can do wonders for blood pressure patients. There are some oils that are proven to help fight hypertension in many ways. However there are a few oils that have one or two properties to help hypertensive situations. These other essential oils for high blood pressure are given below with their properties.
2.1) Geranium Essential Oil
When the blood pressure rises, our minds become more active leading to over thinking or chatter in the mind. Geranium essential oil is known to be diuretic: meaning that it increases urination and cleanses the body of toxins such as urea, uric acid, bile salts, pathogens, heavy metals, pollutants and sugar. It is therefore recommended in cases of water retention, edema, poor blood circulation, high blood pressure, cellulite and weight loss. Depression and stress is ousted and the nerves become more calm and composed.
For better results this oil should be applied before sleeping.
2.2) Bergamot Essential Oil
Bergamot contains flavonoids which are very good relaxants as they can stimulate the activity of certain hormones in the body that induce a relaxing sensation and sedation, such as dopamine and serotonin. These flavonoids soothe nerves and reduce nervous tension, anxiety and stress, and they can also help in the treatment of other diseases such as insomnia, high blood pressure and depression. Bergamot essential oil is used in aromatherapy. For centuries it has been used in the perfuming industry. It has been also used extensively in spas and saloons during massage sessions.
2.3) Chamomile Essential Oil
The first thing that triggers a rise in blood pressure is unusual stress, depression, anxiety and mental chatter.
In terms of relaxation, chamomile, is known to be among the most relaxing plants in the world.
The essential oil of Roman chamomile is known to have calming virtues thanks to its richness in esters; due to its sedative and calming effects for the nervous system, this oil is often used as a relaxant and an antidepressant and also to calm the tensions. It is effective in cases of nervous shock, depression or feeling deep sadness.
2.4) Valerian Root Essential Oil
Keeping in view the miracles it causes, it can be well tagged as wonder oil. A number of blood pressure symptoms are eliminated using this oil. Sleeplessness, trauma, mental chatter, unusual stress and a pounding heart all; fear this oil. This oil has been extracted from the roots of the Valerian plant. It has a unique smell and has been used for centuries for creation of a calming effect on body and mind.
2.5) Lemongrass Essential Oil
This plant grows in warm climates. It is an evergreen plant. Its stalks are chopped and dried for future use. It is rich in vitamin C. This evergreen grass has been used for centuries to cure many ailments like cough and flu. One of the best things about it is that it removes toxins, uric acid, cholesterol and excess fat from the body. It also works to improve the overall circulation of blood also. This ultimately helps in the lowering of blood pressure.
Lemongrass is grown abundantly in Africa. It is taken in the form of tea or juice whichever is convenient for the person.
2.6) Melissa Essential Oil
Melissa has many benefits for the body. The most notable are that it helps to relieve nervousness, restlessness, irritability, anxiety, stress, depression, nervous exhaustion, and to stimulate good mood and restore joy. But the main effect of Melissa is its extraordinary ability to calm, relax and have the necessary detachment on the problems of today.
Moreover, it helps to reduce pounding of the heart. This means that the chances for a cardiac arrest are reduced. Overall it reduces the blood pressure and palpitations. It works on the nervous system by soothing the tired nerves which works to reduce the tensions.
2.7) Neroli (Orange Blossom) Essential Oil
Neroli is a balancing plant of the nervous system. It acts on the tired nervous system and soothes the nerves. It takes away all the depression from the body and hence eliminating all feelings of stress, anxiety, rage, and depression. As a result, it acts on palpitation of nervous origin and reduces hypertension. This oil works through its inhalation.
2.8) Nutmeg Essential Oil
This is also one of the top essential oils for high blood pressure. Nutmeg is both a stimulant and sedative; It soothes the body while exciting the systems of the body. It is the sedative effect that can help to temporarily lower blood pressure, as in times of stress.
It is best when used in winters. In addition, its spicy smell works to relieve the body of a tired mind.
2.9) Vetiver Essential Oil
Vetiver is known to be a stimulant of the immune system. It helps for relaxation psychological rest by reducing blood circulation disorders. This oil works against rage, gloominess and frustration. It helps body absorb feelings of trauma, anger and sadness.
For the induction of a sound sleep it is used abundantly. It works to sooth the mind and body.
3. How to Use Essential Oils for High Blood Pressure?
The essential oils for high blood pressure can be used in two ways.
- You can either massage them onto the body. In this way they enter our body fluids through tiny follicle cells or sweat glands. After entering the bloodstream they create their desired effect on the body. In massage application they can directly be applied onto the body and also can be added into the bath tub of water. Letting your body immerse in the water with your desired oil and massaging them can help them absorb into body cells.
- The other way to administer these oils is by inhalation. Use them in aromatherapy and create the desired mood. They can also be used in candles. By inhalation they enter our lungs and from there they enter into the bloodstream when blood comes into the lungs for oxygenation purposes. For inhalation they can be administered by putting few drops of the oil onto a cotton ball and taking few nasal puffs.
Every oil has its own method of application. So before using these essential oils for high blood pressure in your daily regime, care should be taken.
4. Best Essential Oils Recipes for High Blood Pressure
These top essential oils for high blood pressure can be used either alone or along the other oils. According to the needs of the persons blends can be made. These blends are then used according to their needs.
Recipe 01 : Steam inhalation
– 2 drops of Ylang-Ylang essential oil
Mix everything in a bowl of warm water (be careful not to burn yourself).
Cover the head with a towel and inhale for at least 3 minutes.
Recipe 02 : Diffusion
– 5 ml of Ylang-Ylang essential oil
– 3 ml of Lemongrass Essential oil
OR Geranium essential oil
Recipe 03 : Massage (very effective formula)
Mix well the mixture into a small bottle. Apply 5 drops of the massage mixture on the set, solar plexus and shoulders.
Renew the application twice a day. Take a break of one week after 3 weeks of use.
Recipe 04 : Massage
– 2 drops of Marjoram essential oil
– 1 drop of Neroli essential oïl
– 15 ml of Almond carrier oil
5. Essential Oils to Avoid When Having High Blood Pressure
There are some essential oils that should be avoided during high blood pressure as they are known to be hypertensive. This means they actually raise blood pressure. So if you have high blood pressure frequently you should avoid using these oils. These oils are given below:
- Thyme Essential Oil,
- Sage Essential Oil : don’t confuse with Clary sage,
- Hyssop Essential Oil,
- Rosemary (Romero) Essential Oil,
6. Natural Supplements to Help Reduce High Blood Pressure
Along with medicines and essential oils for high blood pressure, there are certain natural supplements that occur in foods. These supplements when taken in food help to lower high blood pressure. These supplements include;
6.1) Fish oil
It is known that Omega-3 decreases the triglyceride levels in the blood, it has a beneficial role in the fluidity of the blood, lowers blood pressure and preserves the presence of good cholesterol. The best known action of Omega-3 is to reduce the risk of cardiovascular diseases.
It is advisable to consume fish 2 to 3 times a week. If it is not possible then opt for an omega-3 supplement like fish oil. Fish oil is rich in Omega-3 fatty acid. You may have seen on the counters of super stores fish oil known as cod liver oil. This particular oil has an immense effect in reducing the high blood pressure. This oil balances other body functions too. It is extremely good for our joints, heart and brain. Owing to its efficacy this oil can be used in larger amounts. But before administering this oil an advice from an expert doctor should be sought. It may have reaction with other medicines that the person is already taking.
6.2) Magnesium
Several clinical studies have shown that magnesium reduces the risk of death by more than half in patients with heart disease. The beneficial effects of magnesium in the heart are due to the fact that it helps to:
- Dilate the blood vessels,
- Dissolve blood clots,
- Prevent spasm of heart muscle and blood vessel walls,
- Act as an antioxidant,
In fact, Magnesium helps to reduce both systolic and diastolic blood pressure. On the other hand, a magnesium deficiency greatly affects psychological well-being.
Studies have revealed that a large proportion of the population is deficient in Magnesium. This element is found in green leafy vegetables like spinach, fenugreek, lettuce and kale. Intake of Magnesium for a healthy balanced body is different for both males and females. Magnesium supplements are also available. Once again even a supplement should be taken with a consultation from your physician.
You can opt for magnesium suppléments.
6.3) Coq10
Also known as Coenzyme10. Coenzyme Q10 stimulates energy and strengthens the immune system. It provides a support to the cardiovascular system and also works as an antioxidant. This means it helps body get rid of toxic materials which in return allows smooth circulatory system. Clinical studies have revealed that the therapeutic use of dietary supplements containing coenzyme Q10 can prevent or cure cardiovascular disease and congestive heart failure. Other studies show that CoQ10 supplementation can lead to a decrease in systolic and diastolic blood pressure in patients with high blood pressure.
It should be noted that the dosage used during the studies varies from 60 mg to 100 mg, twice a day.
6.4) Potassium and Calcium
Potassium and Sodium need to be balance in the proper functioning of the bodies. For body to perform well this balance is of critical nature. However in today’s’ modern society with piles of junk food, our Sodium intake has increased to a great extent. This has lowered the levels of Potassium in our body. This balance disturbance affects our kidneys.
For our kidney to perform well we need Potassium rich foods. These foods are given below:
- Potatoes
- Oranges
- Sweet potatoes
- Yogurt
- Tuna
- Fruits
- Vegetables
Potassium supplements can also remove this deficiency. But natural foods are always the best alternatives. So try as much as possible for naturally occurring foods rich in Potassium. However if you have a kidney complication you should not overtake Potassium either in the form of supplement or in food.
Not all the Calcium is deposited in the bones or teeth. Some of it circulates in the body in blood. Calcium helps the body by relaxing and tightening the blood vessels. A decrease in the Calcium may contract the blood vessels thus increasing the blood pressure. For this purpose food rich in Calcium should be consumed.
6.5) Niacin
Taking Niacin supplements can help balance the blood pressure. One thing that should be taken into consideration is that taking too much of Niacin may alarmingly lower the blood pressure which too is a dangerous situation. So the required doses of the Niacin should be administered.
The doses for both males and females are different. For adult males it is 16 milligram while for an adult female it is 14 milligram.
7. Home Remedies, Teas and Herbs to Lower High Blood Pressure
There are many herbs and teas that help to improve blood circulation and thus decrease blood pressure and tone blood vessels and heart (proven by clinical studies). In general, these herbs and teas are very effective especially in the cases of stage 1 and some cases of stage 2 hypertension (between 120 and 160 mmHg).
7.1) Garlic
Garlic works to reduce high blood pressure. It functions to lower the high blood pressure by lowering the pulse rate and heart rate. It can be used in a variety of ways. It can be used in cooking and in salads. If one can ignore the taste or smell; 2-3 cloves a day can do wonders.
If you really want quick results then follow the following recipe: 100 grs of garlic macerated in 150grs of alcohol at 90 ° for 20 days. Drink 15 drops a day in a little water. Increase up to 40 drops per day.
If you do not like the consumption of garlic then opt for a garlic supplement. Garlic supplements are widely available.
How to use?
- Ideally, two raw garlic cloves diluted in a glass of water should be consumed each morning on an empty stomach.
- Otherwise, 2 garlic cloves, peeled. Half a glass of olive oil. Cut the garlic cloves in half. Then, fill a glass jar with the olive oil, then dip the garlic cloves you have prepared beforehand.
Wait until at least three weeks before starting to consume these garlic cloves macerated in oil.
It is an exceptional way to naturally reduce your hypertension.
7.2) Olive leaf
Due to oleuropeoside, olive leaf is not only hypotensive but also vasodilators, regulating heart rate, antioxidant, antiatherogenic (opposed to the formation of arterial plaque), hypocholesterolemic (lowers cholesterol) and hypoglycemic (lowers sugar levels).
How to use? In case of moderate hypertension (from 160 to 180 mmHg), it is advisable to put olive leaf in boiling water and leave to infuse for 10 minutes (40 leafs in 1 liter of water). Filter and then drink 3 cups a day for 1 month.
7.3) Hawthorn flowers
Its medicinal properties derive mainly from its components, flavonoids and proanthocyans, which dilate the coronary arteries, thus increasing blood flow. In other words, hawthorn has a muscle-relaxing action on the heart muscles, which lowers tension (in the case of a stage 1 hypertension – 140 to 150 mmHg)
How to use? Let infuse 2 teaspoons of dried flowers into a cup of boiling water. Filter and then drink 2 or 3 cups a day for a month.
7.4) Hibiscus tea
Hibiscus flowers contain anthocyanosides which protect the blood vessels and promote a reduction in blood pressure (in the case of a stage 1 hypertension – 140 to 150 mmHg.)
How to use? Infuse 3 tablespoons to 1 liter of boiling water for 10 minutes then filter. Drink 4 cups a day, as long as necessary.
8. Life Style Tips for a Normal Blood Pressure
In general, a person suffering from hypertension will seek to lower his blood pressure. This seems logical, The problem is not the reading of the blood pressure itself. Who would think that we are sick with 140 mmHg and that we are no longer with 130 mmHg? But The problem is the lifestyle which induces figures supposedly too high.
Never forget that your goal is not to lower a particular measure of the blood pressure, but actually reduce your risk of illness, complications and death.
The question for you is not, “What do I have to do to lower my blood pressure? ” But rather : “What should I do to stabilize my blood pressure and reduce the risk of complications in the future?”
For about 90% of patients, the cause of hypertension is directly related to environmental factors; Such as poor diet (too much fat and especially salt), obesity, age, use of hypertensive drugs, stress, etc..
Unfortunately the modern lifestyle promotes hypertension and keeping a healthy lifestyle becomes a must. Here we present some lifestyle tips to stabilize blood pressure in the medium and long term.
- Change you diet and stop taking junk, caffeine, and fatty foods:
A lot of unhealthy junk has crept in our food today. These foods have excess fatty acids, caffeine and high contents of Sodium. These foods should be avoided at any cost. Also, limiting salt consumption to 5 to 6 g per day. Salt is one of the main causes of hypertension, it is found in large quantities in cold meats, cheeses, preserves, prepared meals, etc.
Instead, it is advisable to follow a very particular diet rich in fruit and vegetable. The DASH concept (Dietary Approach to Stop Hypertension) is well known and consists of an excellent dietary guide to follow in order to stabilize blood pressure.
In addition, consume enough dairy products, as these products are high in calcium. This mineral is very useful and plays an important role in the regulation of blood pressure. - Stop smoking because tobacco has an impact on the vascular system by increasing oxidative stress. This leads to premature aging of the arteries.
- Take regular exercise:
Doing exercise daily can help balance all the systems of the body. The exercise can be anything from yoga to aerobics, form walking to simple meditation. However, it is necessary to avoid isometric exercises such as weightlifting or difficult cardios as they can dangerously raise blood pressure. - Monitor your weight:
Excess weight increases the load of the cardiovascular system and affects the metabolism of lipids and sugars, which can have a thickening effect on the blood. Researches showed that hypertension seems to be three times more common in obese people than in people with normal weight.
Obese is considered one who weighs 20% more than the ideal weight for its size and bone. - Reduce Alcohol consumption:
Several studies have shown that people who consume a small amount of alcohol every day have less hypertension than people who drink more alcohol. - Manage your stress:
Taking unwanted stress does no good to the body. One should be practical and not indulge in harmful depression and stress. Stress, anxiety and depression are the main triggers of this silent killer which is high blood pressure. In addition, stress and anger can increase the risk of developing a cardiac event. Anything that helps you to reduce stress will help you to reduce tension, from the various meditation methods to stress management classes, yoga and softer exercises such as tai chi. Music, breathing techniques, singing, practicing the arts. Please read this article to learn how to deal with stress and anxiety. - Take your blood pressure yourself:
By taking your blood pressure yourself, you may be monitoring more your health: you will gain a better understanding of how diet, exercise and medication affect your blood pressure. So, do not hesitate and invest in a blood pressure monitor. For information, there are several types of devices but the simplest to use and the most convenient are electronic devices with automatic cuff inflation.
Conclusion:
We have seen that the approaches are numerous and the products too. The only way to succeed is to combine several: diet, stress management, exercises and supplements. It is truly the only method to overcome hypertension and cardiovascular disease.
A healthy lifestyle must be adopted so that this silent killer can be avoided at any cost. However if it becomes inevitable then the proper medicine should be taken in consultation with your doctor. Along with that essential oils for high blood pressure can be administered too.
For further knowledge of blood pressure we advise you to read the following article:
