This article looks at the scientific research behind 10 herbs and spices that may help lower blood pressure.both systolic and diastolic values above these levels You can manage blood pressure with medications, such as angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors and calcium channel blockers.In fact, studies have shown that some herbs and spices may reduce blood pressure levels, so you may want to consider adding these to your diet, too.Studies suggest that eugenol may help reduce blood pressure by acting as a natural calcium channel blocker.However, scientists need to do more research to investigate whether basil helps lower blood pressure in humans.Summary Basil contains compounds, such as eugenol, that may help reduce blood pressure, according to animal studies.Several studies have shown that carotenoid antioxidants reduce blood pressure and LDL (bad) cholesterol, a risk factor for heart disease ( 8 ).Summary Parsley contains a variety of compounds, such as vitamin C and dietary carotenoids, that may help lower blood pressure.Researchers have suggested that compounds in celery seed extract may help lower blood pressure by acting as a natural calcium channel blocker.In addition, celery seed is a good source of dietary fiber, which has been linked to lower blood pressure (11, 12 ).Animal studies have shown these may reduce blood pressure by acting as natural calcium channel blockers.Summary Chinese cat’s claw contains compounds that may act as natural calcium channel blockers and help blood vessels relax, according to animal studies.Practitioners of Ayurvedic medicine use it to treat various ailments, including anxiety, memory issues, and high blood pressure ( 17 ).A 12-week human study in 54 healthy adults looked at the effects of Bacopa monnieri on memory, anxiety, depression, and blood pressure.Although the findings from animal studies are promising, bacopa monnieri‘s effects on blood pressure in humans are still unclear.A 24-week study in 30 people found that 600–1,500 mg of garlic extract was just as effective at lowering blood pressure as the drug Atenolol ( 24 ).Animal studies have shown that taking rosmarinic acid helped significantly reduce systolic blood pressure by inhibiting angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) ( 27 , 28 ).Summary Thyme contains powerful compounds, such as rosmarinic acid, that appear to help relax blood vessels in animal studies.People have used it for centuries in traditional medicine to treat heart conditions, including high blood pressure.Moreover, a review of 3 studies including 139 participants with type 2 diabetes looked at the effects of taking cinnamon.People have used it for centuries to improve many aspects of heart health, including circulation, cholesterol levels, and blood pressure ( 34 ).Both human and animal studies have shown that taking ginger reduces blood pressure in several ways.A study in more than 4,000 people found that those who consumed the most ginger — 2–4 grams per day — had the lowest risk of developing high blood pressure ( 37 ).Test-tube and animal studies suggest cardamom may help reduce blood pressure by acting as a natural calcium channel blocker and diuretic ( 39 ).Summary Animal and human research suggest cardamom may help lower blood pressure by acting as a natural calcium channel blocker and diuretic.
Edward R. Forte
Author