Medicinal Plants for High Blood Pressure ~ NepalAyurveds.com

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Medicinal Plants for High Blood Pressure

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Explore natural solutions for high blood pressure with medicinal plants. Discover herbs promoting heart health and managing blood pressure effectively.

Medicinal plants have long been explored for their potential in managing high blood pressure, offering natural alternatives to conventional medications. Certain plants, like garlic and hawthorn, have been studied for their potential to lower blood pressure levels. Garlic, with its active component allicin, is believed to promote blood vessel dilation and reduce hypertension. Similarly, hawthorn is known for its cardiovascular benefits, potentially enhancing blood flow and reducing strain on the heart.

Another noteworthy medicinal plant for high blood pressure is olive leaf extract. Rich in compounds like oleuropein, it is thought to have vasodilatory effects, promoting relaxation of blood vessels and contributing to lower blood pressure. While these medicinal plants show promise, it is crucial to consult with healthcare professionals before incorporating them into a treatment plan, ensuring their compatibility with individual health conditions and medications.

Ajwain (Carum copticum L.):

Ajwain, scientifically known as Carum copticum L., offers potential benefits in regulating heart rate and blood pressure. This herb's extract from its seeds has demonstrated efficacy in reducing blood pressure, particularly in normotensive conditions. The calcium channel blocking effect of Ajwain contributes to its cardiovascular regulatory properties.

Bindii (Tribulus terrestris):

Bindii, also recognized as Tribulus terrestris, is employed for the treatment of hypertension. Both its methanolic and aqueous extracts exhibit vasodilatory properties, leading to a notable decrease in blood pressure, especially in spontaneously hypertensive individuals. The plant's saponins play a crucial role in its antihypertensive effects.

Black Cumin (Nigella sativa):

Black Cumin, scientifically termed Nigella sativa, holds a historical significance in medicinal use. The oral administration of its seed oil extract has proven effective in reducing both systolic and diastolic blood pressure in mild hypertensive male patients. This herb achieves its antihypertensive effects through vasorelaxation, calcium channel blocking, and possessing antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.

Black-Jack (Bidens pilosa L.):

Black Jack leaf extract demonstrates a significant decrease in systolic blood pressure. Beyond its impact on hypertension, this herb also exhibits anti-cancer and anti-obesity effects, along with radical scavenging abilities. The multifaceted benefits of Black Jack make it a noteworthy consideration.

Black Plum (Vitex Doniana):

Consuming fresh black plum fruit orally has been associated with a substantial reduction in both systolic and diastolic blood pressure within a short duration. The effectiveness of black plum in lowering blood pressure underscores its potential as a natural remedy.

Greater Burdock (Arctium Lappa):

Burdock, recognized for its role in treating hypertension, functions as an antioxidant, reduces inflammation, and promotes vasorelaxation. The active component, arctigenin, contributes to increased nitric oxide production and decreased superoxide anion levels, enhancing its antihypertensive properties.

Burhead (Echinodorus Grandiflorus):

Echinodorus grandiflorus, utilized in Brazilian folk medicine, acts as a diuretic, resulting in a decrease in mean arterial pressure, cardiac output, and vascular resistance, particularly in spontaneously hypertensive individuals. Its impact on multiple pathways, including prostaglandins and nitric oxide, collectively contributes to the herb's ability to lower blood pressure.

Cardamom (Elettaria Cardamomum):

The antihypertensive properties of cardamom fruit powder are evident, as it effectively reduces mean arterial pressure, systolic, and diastolic blood pressure in pre-hypertensive individuals. The incorporation of cardamom contributes not only to a significant improvement in antioxidant status but also to a notable reduction in oxidative stress.

Carrot (Daucus Carota L.):

Carrot stands out as a traditional remedy for hypertension, showcasing its ability to enhance endothelial function, regulate fluid balance, and serve as an antioxidant. The bioactive components within D. carota play a pivotal role in decreasing arterial blood pressure, making carrots a valuable addition to antihypertensive strategies.

Cat’s Claw Herb (Uncaria Rhynchophylla):

Employed in traditional Chinese medicine, Cat’s Claw emerges as a remedy that effectively lowers blood pressure and alleviates neurological symptoms. The component hirsutine within Cat’s Claw herb acts by reducing intracellular Ca2+ levels, influencing calcium channels and, consequently, inducing a hypotensive effect.

Celery (Apium graveolens):

Celery seed extract emerges as a promising solution for reducing blood pressure in hypertensive individuals. Particularly noteworthy is the efficacy of its hexane extract, which not only decreases blood pressure by impacting catecholamines and vascular resistance but also exhibits antioxidant effects.

Chakshushya (Cassia absus L.):

Alkaloids isolated from Cassia absus Linn seeds show potential in intravenously administered forms for reducing blood pressure. It is essential to note that higher doses may have implications for heart function, and repeated injections could lead to tachyphylaxis.

Chinese Sage (Salvia miltiorrhiza):

Salvia miltiorrhiza, a herb deeply rooted in traditional Chinese medicine, demonstrates significant cardioprotective effects, including vasodilation and anti-hypertensive properties. Additionally, it showcases antioxidative effects, anti-proliferative activities, and anti-inflammatory capacity.

Cinnamon (Cinnamomum zeylanicum):

Cinnamomum zeylanicum, recognized for its historical use in treating hypertension, proves its efficacy. The stem bark's aqueous extract stands out for its ability to reduce systolic blood pressure and prevent contractions related to endothelium, nitric oxide, and ATP-sensitive K+ channels.

Cocoa Bean (Theobroma cacao):

Cocoa powder, rich in flavonoids, serves as a potent inhibitor of cardiovascular diseases. Regular consumption of dark or milk chocolate has been associated with a decrease in both systolic and diastolic blood pressure, highlighting its potential as a dietary intervention.

Coffee Weed (Cassia occidentalis):

Using coffee weed leaves as an antihypertensive agent shows promise in lowering blood pressure. This effect may be attributed to various mechanisms, including the suppression of external Ca2+ influx, diuretic effects, and the presence of anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. Coffee weed also exhibits lipid peroxide reduction and inhibits phospholipase A2 activity.

Coriander (Coriandrum sativum):

Traditionally employed for cardiovascular and gastrointestinal diseases, coriander has shown efficacy in reducing systolic blood pressure (SBP), diastolic blood pressure (DBP), and mean arterial blood pressure (MABP). Its potential Ca2+ antagonist action, diuretic effects, and antioxidant properties contribute to this antihypertensive effect.

Dogbane (Apocynum venetum):

Extracts from dogbane leaves, rich in flavonoids and quercetin variants, demonstrate the ability to induce vasorelaxation by enhancing nitric oxide (NO) and scavenging reactive oxygen species (ROS). Additionally, it contributes to improved renal function, highlighting its potential as an antihypertensive agent.

Dog-strangling Vine (Cynanchum wilfordii):

Ethanol extracts of Cynanchum wilfordii have exhibited blood pressure reduction, especially in high-fat/cholesterol-fed individuals. This effect is linked to increased endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS) activity, elevated NO, cyclic guanosine monophosphate (cGMP) production, and decreased expression of VCAM-1 and endothelin-1 (ET-1).

Harmel (Peganum harmala):

Different parts of the harmel plant, including seeds, bark, and root, are utilized in folk medicine for hypertension. Peganum harmala prompts relaxation through endothelial cells and vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs). Active constituents like Harmine, harmaline, and harmalol exhibit vasodilatory properties by increasing NO production.

Fang Ji (Stephania tetrandra):

Stephania tetrandra is employed to regulate high blood pressure by reducing inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) expression and blocking Ca2+ channels. The bioactive constituent tetrandrine has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects, contributing to its ability to lower blood pressure.

Garden Cress (Lepidium sativum L.):

Garden cress is known for its hypotensive effects, involving increased urinary removal of sodium, potassium, and chlorides. Additionally, it exhibits anti-inflammatory effects and induces diuresis, contributing to the reduction of blood pressure.

Garden Nasturtium (Tropaeolum majus L.):

Garden Nasturtium, scientifically known as Tropaeolum majus L., positively influences the circulatory system. Hydroethanolic extracts from this plant have demonstrated a decrease in Mean Arterial Pressure (MAP). Components like isoquercitrin play a role in reducing plasma ACE levels and increasing NO production, making it beneficial for managing hypertension.

Garlic (Allium sativum):

Garlic stands out for its effectiveness in treating hypertension, consistently showing significant reductions in Blood Pressure (BP). Aged garlic extract (AGE) not only lowers BP but also provides various health benefits, including antibacterial, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, anti-cancer, and hypocholesteremic effects. This versatile remedy effectively addresses both systolic and diastolic blood pressure.

Giant Dodder (Cuscuta reflexa):

Known for its antihypertensive properties, Giant Dodder, or Cuscuta reflexa, demonstrates a decrease in both systolic and diastolic blood pressure with its ethanolic extract. This herb contributes to lowering blood pressure and inducing bradycardia, indicating a slower heart rate.

Ginger (Zingiber officinale):

Widely used in daily diets and therapeutic purposes, Ginger, with bioactive components like (6)-gingerol and (6)-shogaol, creates tri-phasic Blood Pressure profiles, effectively reducing blood pressure. Ginger also plays a role in decreasing levels of total cholesterol, triglycerides, LDL, VLDL, and inhibiting ACE-1 activity, regulating BP and cholesterol levels for managing hypertension.

Ginseng (Panax spp.):

Available in various forms, Ginseng can be taken to increase or reduce blood pressure. The extract from Panax ginseng shows declines in both systolic and diastolic blood pressure. Ginseng's hypotensive effects result from stimulating nitric oxide (NO) and cGMP production, supporting calcium-gated potassium channels, and exhibiting antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.

Goldthread (Coptis chinensis):

Goldthread, with its main component Berberine (BBR), decreases blood pressure by blocking calcium channels and inhibiting cardiac hypertrophy. Berberine scavenges reactive oxygen species (ROS), prevents NADPH oxidase, increases antioxidant enzymes, and enhances vasodilation by promoting NO release. BBR also prevents endothelial injury and controls inflammatory pathways, making Goldthread beneficial for hypertension management.

Gumbo Limbo (Bursera simaruba):

Gumbo limbo has been shown to decrease heart rate and induce long-lasting hypotension, improving endothelial function and providing vascular protection.

Hardy Fuchsia (Fuchsia magellanica):

Found in Chile and Southern Argentina, Hardy fuchsia acts as a diuretic, reduces body heat, and significantly decreases Mean Arterial Pressure (MAP) with ethanol/aqueous extracts.

Hawthorn (Crataegus spp.):

Used for cardiovascular diseases, Hawthorn displays significant decreases in diastolic blood pressure (DBP) in patients with mild hypertension. The main compound, quercetin, exhibits antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and vasorelaxant effects, affecting both vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs) and endothelial cells.

Indian Plantago (Plantago ovata):

Indian Plantago, with its seeds and husk used for medicine, can relatively reduce blood pressure. A clinical study suggested that using 15 grams of Plantago ovata supplement daily could result in a reduction of both systolic (SBP) and diastolic blood pressure (DBP).

Indian Snakeroot (Rauwolfia serpentina):

Indian snakeroot, scientifically known as Rauwolfia serpentina, is a tropical woody plant with established use in treating hypertension. The plant works by reducing dopamine and epinephrine levels, promoting vasodilation—a crucial process in regulating blood pressure. Reserpine, the main alkaloid in Indian snakeroot, is widely recognized and used as a drug for longstanding hypertension treatment.

Japanese Thistle (Cirsium japonicum):

Japanese Thistle, or Cirsium japonicum, is a medicinal plant known for inducing vasorelaxation. This effect is achieved through histamine H1 receptors, leading to increased levels of nitric oxide (NO) and cyclic guanosine monophosphate (cGMP). Silibinin, a component of Japanese thistle, acts as an antagonist for the human angiotensin II receptor type 1 (AT1 receptor), contributing to a reduction in systolic blood pressure (SBP).

King of Bitters (Andrographis paniculata):

Traditional Asian medicine has long used the King of Bitters, scientifically known as Andrographis paniculata, for cardiovascular diseases. Its extracts have demonstrated the ability to lower ACE and ROS activities, effectively reducing blood pressure (BP). The compound 14-deoxy-11,12-didehydroandrographolide found in the bark aids in increasing NO release and inhibiting the rise in intracellular Ca2+. Additionally, the herb is known for its anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, and antioxidant effects.

Kudzu (Pueraria lobata):

Kudzu, or Pueraria lobata, is recognized for its ability to reduce BP through vasodilation and stimulating Ca2+-activated K+ channels. The major compound, Puerarin, is credited with antihypertensive and cardioprotective properties. The herb's anti-inflammatory and antioxidant activities contribute to its effectiveness in managing high blood pressure.

Large-fruited Elm (Ulmus macrocarpa):

Oral administration of the root bark of Large-fruited Elm has been found to reduce systolic blood pressure (SBP). The improvement in vascular endothelium structure and function is linked to its antihypertensive effects, addressing both structural and functional modifications in vascular endothelium.

Lemongrass (Cymbopogon citratus):

Lemongrass, scientifically known as Cymbopogon citratus, contains an active compound called Citral that causes vasorelaxation through NO activation and calcium channel suppression. Its modest antioxidant activity helps suppress reactive oxygen species (ROS) molecules and involves anti-inflammatory pathways.

Logolai (Bag.) (Viscum articulatum Burm.f.):

Logolai, also known as Viscum articulatum Burm.f., has a methanolic extract with diuretic properties. Oleanolic acid extracted from the plant raises NO levels, and the herb exhibits antioxidant potential. Its diuretic properties and increased NO levels contribute to its antihypertensive effects.

Makandi (Coleus forskohlii):

Makandi, scientifically known as Coleus forskohlii, activates adenylyl cyclase, leading to an increase in cAMP and protein kinase A activation. This process causes vascular smooth muscle relaxation and a decrease in blood pressure (BP). The herb promotes the relaxation of vascular smooth muscles.

Maritime Pine (Pinus pinaster):

Maritime Pine, with its Pycnogenol extract, has demonstrated the ability to reduce BP, possibly by preventing angiotensin-converting enzymes. The potential reduction in BP is attributed to the prevention of angiotensin-converting enzymes.

Mistletoe (Agelanthus dodoneifolius):

Ethanolic extracts of Mistletoe have been found to reduce both systolic (SBP) and diastolic (DBP) blood pressure in normotensive rats. The mechanism involves vasorelaxation by preventing carbonic anhydrase and stimulating KCa channels. This vasorelaxation contributes to the herb's antihypertensive effects.

Melon-Gubat (Melothria maderaspatana):

Melon-Gubat has demonstrated the ability to reduce blood pressure (BP) in hypertensive individuals. The tea made from Melon-Gubat significantly lowers both systolic and diastolic BP, providing a substantial reduction in individuals with mild hypertension.

Murungai (Moringa oleifera):

Crude extracts of Murungai have shown a dose-dependent decrease in systolic (SBP), diastolic (DBP), and mean blood pressure (MBP). The antihypertensive activity is attributed to thiocarbamate and isothiocyanate elements, with decreases in BP linked to lessening vascular dysfunction and oxidative stress

Onion (Allium cepa):

Onion, known scientifically as Allium cepa, exhibits blood pressure (BP) lowering effects, particularly in individuals consuming a fructose-rich diet. The organo-sulfur compounds present in onions contribute to sustaining artery elasticity and reducing blood viscosity. Additionally, the flavonoid quercetin found in onions aids in decreasing oxidative stress, ultimately improving vascular function and mitigating oxidative stress-associated hypertension.

Pointed Phoenix Tail (Gynura procumbens):

Recognized as "longevity spinach" or "Pointed Phoenix Tail," this herb has been explored for its potential in lowering blood pressure (BP). Extracts from this herb are believed to work by inhibiting specific contractions and activities associated with elevated BP, showcasing its promising role in hypertension management.

Pomegranate (Punica granatum):

Pomegranate, a fruit-bearing shrub, has demonstrated its ability to modulate blood pressure by reducing the activity of angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE), an enzyme linked to high BP. Regular consumption of pomegranate juice may modestly decrease systolic blood pressure (SBP), presenting a natural approach to support cardiovascular health.

Prickly Custard Apple (Annona muricata):

The leaf extract of Prickly Custard Apple, scientifically known as Annona muricata, has shown potential in lowering blood pressure by reducing peripheral vascular resistance. This suggests a vasodilatory effect, contributing to its antihypertensive properties.

Qingxue Dan (Chunghyul-dan):

Chunghyul-dan, an herbal complex, exhibits anti-hypertensive effects, particularly beneficial for stroke patients. It has demonstrated the ability to reduce both systolic blood pressure (SBP) and diastolic blood pressure (DBP), providing a holistic approach to hypertension management.

Radish (Raphanus sativus):

Radish extracts, particularly from leaves and seeds, have shown promise in reducing systolic blood pressure (SBP) in hypertensive individuals. These extracts may enhance nitric oxide (NO) production and possess antioxidant properties, contributing to their antihypertensive effects.

Roselle (Hibiscus sabdariffa):

Known as HS tea, hibiscus tea derived from Roselle has displayed remarkable antihypertensive effects. Its mechanism involves increasing NO production, blocking calcium channels, and exhibiting diuretic and antioxidant effects, offering a natural and flavorful approach to supporting cardiovascular health.

Safflower (Carthamus tinctorius L.):

Safflower, specifically its compound safflower yellow (SY) derived from seeds, exhibits potential in reducing blood pressure (BP). SY has been associated with lowering BP levels, reducing vascular cell adhesion molecule-1 (VCAM-1) and low-density lipoprotein (LDL), while preventing cell proliferation and reducing arterial stiffness.

Saffron (Crocus sativus):

Saffron, both in tablet form and through its compound crocin, shows potential in reducing oxidative stress and inflammation, contributing to lower blood pressure. These anti-inflammatory properties make saffron a promising natural option for those seeking to manage hypertension.

Sesame (Sesamum indicum):

Sesame, particularly its alcoholic seed extract, has been observed to reduce blood pressure (BP). The potential antihypertensive effects of sesame extract provide another example of how natural compounds may contribute to cardiovascular health.

Shell Ginger (Alpinia zerumbet):

Shell Ginger's essential oil demonstrates vasorelaxant properties, possibly induced through effects on endothelial cells or vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs). This suggests a potential role in managing blood pressure by promoting relaxation of blood vessels.

Stone Breaker (Phyllanthus niruri):

The aqueous extract of stone breaker has shown the ability to reduce blood pressure (BP) and increase plasma antioxidants. This indicates its potential in contributing to cardiovascular health by addressing hypertension and enhancing antioxidant levels.

Sumac (Rhus coriaria):

Sumac's hydrolysable tannins exhibit vasorelaxant effects, along with potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. This multifaceted approach suggests a potential role in managing blood pressure and supporting overall cardiovascular well-being.

Sweet Basil (Ocimum basilicum):

The aqueous extract of sweet basil has demonstrated its ability to reduce blood pressure (BP) levels. With its vasorelaxant and antioxidant effects, sweet basil offers a natural and flavorful option for individuals looking to support cardiovascular health.

Sweet Flag (Acorus calamus):

Sweet flag extracts have shown to reduce mean arterial pressure (MAP), possibly through vasoconstriction or vasodilation. The effects on MAP suggest a potential role in managing blood pressure through various mechanisms.

Sweet Violet (Viola odorata):

Sweet violet leaf extract has shown promise in lowering mean arterial pressure (MAP), inducing vasodilation, and improving cardiovascular risk factors. This highlights its potential as a natural remedy for hypertension.

Tea (Camellia sinensis):

Both green and black tea varieties have demonstrated antihypertensive effects. Green tea, in particular, has been associated with a more potent hypotensive effect, reducing both systolic and diastolic blood pressure (SBP and DBP), offering a widely consumed and accessible option for promoting cardiovascular health.

Tianma (Gastrodia elata Blume):

Gastrodia rhizome, known as Tianma, exhibits antihypertensive properties by reducing blood pressure levels through various mechanisms, including modulation of the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system (RAAS). This natural remedy provides an alternative approach to managing hypertension.

Tomato (Lycopersicon esculentum):

Tomato extract, rich in carotenoids, has demonstrated a modest decrease in blood pressure (BP) in hypertensive patients. The antioxidant content of tomatoes contributes to their antihypertensive effects, providing a flavorful option for cardiovascular support.

Turmeric (Curcuma longa):

Curcumin, derived from turmeric, possesses anti-inflammatory properties and may contribute to reducing hypertension by decreasing angiotensin II receptor type

CHYURI (AESANDRA BUTYRACEA)

DATIWAN (ACHYRANTHES BIDENTATA )

DATIWAN (ACHYRANTHES ASPERA)

DHASINGARE (Gaultheria fragrantissima)

DHATURA (Datura metel)

DHATURA (DATURA STRAMONIUM)

DHUPI (JUNIPERUS COMMUNIS)

DRONAPUSPA (LEUCAS CEPHALOTES)

GHUIKUMARI (Aloe barbadensis)

GOBRESALLA / TALISPATRA (ABIES SPECTABILIS)

GOKHUR (TRIBULUS TERRESTRIS)

GUJARGANO (CISSAMPELOS PAREIRA)