Alternative Medicine High Blood Pressure

I apologize for the awkward title - alternative medicine high blood pressure - but sometimes we have to twist titles around in order to make them easier for readers to find.

With that aside, let's get to the meat of the topic.

While there are plenty of prescription drugs to help control high blood pressure, many people either can't afford the medications or don't want to deal with the accompanying side-effects. These are the most often sited reasons for turning to alternative medicines.

Before we talk about some of your options, let's make sure you understand blood pressure ranges. You might be surprised to know that they aren't necessarily the same for everyone. Age, race, health and gender can all influence a healthy blood pressure reading.

In general terms, however, a healthy person should have a systolic pressure no higher than 120 mm of Hg and a diastolic pressure approximately 80 mm of Hg. 120/80. A systolic blood pressure ranging from 140 mm to 159 mm, along with a diastolic blood pressure ranging from 90 mm to 99 mm is known as stage one high blood pressure.

So what options are there for the person looking for an alternative medicine approach to high blood pressure.

Acupuncture

Acupuncture is a natural remedy that originated in China. In practice for approximately 2000 years, it works by stimulating your nerves and muscles to release tension. In relation to high blood pressure, acupuncture is used to relax your body, creating a sense of peace and well being.

Herbs

While herbs are not recommended for someone who suffers from highly elevated blood pressure levels, they can be helpful for slightly elevated levels. Ginger, rauwolfia, mistletoe and hawthorne are all helpful. Always check with your physician before introducing herbs into your diet. Improper doses can be dangerous and some herbs can have a negative interaction with prescription drugs.

Holistic

Holistic medicine is a system of health care that emphasizes the whole person, not just the disease. In relation to high blood pressure, it would include lowering the fat intake in your diet, adding fiber, and reducing your weight. In addition, you'd want to increase your exercise, reduce your alcoholic intake, eliminating smoking, and perhaps incorporate some massage or meditative exercises into your routine.

Yoga

There are a number of yoga exercises that can be used to help control hypertension. For example, the Easy Pose helps slow down your metabolism and promotes inner tranquility.

Biofeedback

Biofeedback is a complementary and alternative medical treatment which measures the processes of the body so that you can become aware of these processes and to learn to gain control of them. Some trials using biofeedback equipment have lowered the respiration rate to under ten breaths a minute. Very relaxing stress reduction.

So there you go ... alternative medicine high blood pressure. Always consult with your physician before embarking on alternative medicine approaches. They aren't appropriate for all people in all situations and your doctor will know what's best for you.

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