Hypertension or high blood pressure is a continuous rise in blood pressure for a long duration. The blood pressure can be stated as the pressure exerted by the heart on the walls of blood vessels. When the heart squeezes and pushes blood through the arteries to whole body parts, this force generates pressure on that blood which further strikes with the walls of arteries. Over time, hypertension can lead to many disorders of heart such as angina, heart failure, etc. Many other body organs like kidneys, eyes, heart, and brain can also get affected by regular increase in blood pressure.

The normal range of blood pressure is considered as 120/80 mmHg but in hypertension, these numbers increase from normal value and can reach up to 250/170 mmHg. The patient is supposed to be serious if his blood pressure reading cross 180/120 mmHg.

Causes

There are several factors responsible for hypertension or increase in blood pressure which include:

  • Genetic factors
  • Environmental factors
  • Physical changes
  • Kidney diseases
  • Obstructive sleep apnea
  • Side effects of several medications
  • Problems in adrenal gland
  • Excessive consumption of alcohol
  • Thyroid disorders
  • Narrow arteries

Symptoms

Basically Hypertension is a silent condition affecting and many patients suffering from this are not able to observe any symptoms. It may take many years to reach the levels to make the symptoms of hypertension enough to observe. Some common signs and symptoms of hypertension include:

  • Severe headache
  • Dizziness
  • Difficult breathing
  • Nosebleeds
  • Flushing
  • Change in vision
  • Blood in the urine
  • Pain in the chest (Angina)

Diagnosis

The primary diagnosis method of hypertension includes the measuring of blood pressure levels. If your doctor observed a peak in your normal blood range, then he may suggest you routine checkup of blood pressure. If the blood pressure stays high continuously, then you will be diagnosed as hypertensive patient. The doctor may also prescribe some tests to rule out underlying conditions. These tests may include:

  • Urine test
  • Cholesterol or triglyceride test
  • ECG (electrocardiogram)
  • Ultrasound of the kidneys or heart

These tests will help the doctor to identify the cause behind the increase in blood pressure and to detect any negative impact on the body organs due to hypertension.

Ayurvedic Treatment for Hypertension

Treatment of hypertension is much easier with the herbs present in nature. These herbs regulate the increased levels of blood pressure and stabilize it under normal range. Take a look at some herbs which are very beneficial in maintaining normal blood pressure levels, and treat hypertension.

The herb Brahmi (Bacopa monnieri) is found in the marshy areas of South Asia and used by practitioners of Ayurveda for treating various ailments including hypertension, memory problems and anxiety. Brahmi is beneficial in lowering down both systolic and diastolic blood pressure by stimulating the release of nitric oxide in blood vessels. 

  • BASIL

Basil is an herb full of flavors and comes in many forms. Being rich in powerful compounds, basil provides multiple benefits in the body. It is a good antioxidant which excretes harmful toxins from the body and lowers the blood pressure. Eugenol present in basil acts as a natural calcium channel blocker which further reduces the increased blood pressure.

  • GARLIC

Garlic consists of sulfur compounds such as allicin and various other compounds which enhance the heart health. Garlic increases the flow of blood and relaxes the blood vessels. Unitedly they lower down the high levels of blood pressure. 

  • THYME

Along with flavors, thyme also contains numerous healthy compounds from which Rosmarinic acid is the one. This compound makes the thyme efficient in reducing inflammation, controlling blood sugar levels and improving the flow of blood. Thyme also reduces the increased pressure of blood by inhibiting the angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) which is responsible for narrowing the blood vessels and elevating the blood pressure.

  • CINNAMON

Cinnamon has been continuously in use since ancient times to treat the heart related ailments such as hypertension. The mechanism of action of cinnamon is not clear yet but it is supposed to dilate and relax the blood vessels, thus maintaining the blood pressure in a healthy state.

  • GINGER

Ginger is tested as a valuable herb in controlling hypertension. Consumption of ginger reduces the blood pressure in many ways and also improves the heart health, reduces cholesterol and triglyceride levels. Ginger can be taken along with vegetables and also in the form of supplements. It works as a natural ACE inhibitor and natural calcium channel blocker to regulate blood pressure.

Conclusion

Nowadays, hypertension is very common and affects a large portion of the population in the whole world. The best method to maintain normal blood pressure is to consume a combination of herbs, a balanced diet, daily exercise and adapting healthy lifestyle habits. You can include above mentioned natural herbs in your daily routine to prevent hypertension or any disease associated with it.

Consult a Doctor

If you think you are also suffering from hypertension or observe any of the above given symptoms, you need to consult a doctor immediately. You can book free online Ayurvedic consultation with highly experienced Ayurvedic doctor by visiting www.avedaayur.com