If you are currently on medication for high blood pressure or if your doctor has told you that you have high pressure (or borderline high blood pressure) then you might want to look at taking the alternative route to lowering your blood pressure naturally.
The herb Hawthorn is believed to be beneficial when it comes to lowering blood pressure. It has been used in traditional herbal medicine for many years as a type of heart herbal tonic. It has been a folk remedy for heart problems that has been put to use for many centuries in Europe and China.
What Does Hawthorn Do?
Hawthorn is thought to not only reduce blood pressure but also to increase the heart muscle’s ability to contract. It is also believed to reduce the rate that the heart beats and to increase the flow of blood to the heart. More and more evidence from research studies is supporting the claim that Hawthorn is an herb that is beneficial to take for those who suffer from congestive heart failure.
Be aware however that Hawthorn in and of itself is generally not enough. In fact it has been theorized that when it comes to lowering blood pressure, this healing herb may make a small difference. A small difference is still a difference though.
A typical dosage of Hawthorn that can be of potential benefit is 100 to 300 milligrams (MG) taken three times a day with the dosage being standardized to contain either 18 to 20 percent or procyanidins (or two to three percent of flavonoids). It will take in the range of a couple of weeks to a few months for the herb to begin to do what it is supposed to do.
The Helping Hand of Hawthorn:
When taken as an extract, Hawthorn can work to widen ( in other words, dilate) the arteries. It is particularly beneficial for the coronary arteries. Herbalists often recommend that Hawthorn be mixed up into a tonic or a tea. They swear by its effectiveness in terms of improving the work of the heart and the circulatory system in general.
It is important to stop here and make it known that Hawthorn is one of the stronger herbal medicines. For this reason you should not start taking it until you discuss it with your doctor.
While many Western doctors are still wary and a little uncertain about alternative methods that are aimed at healing, others are much more optimistic and open minded. These doctors are embracing the idea that alternative medicine such as the use of herbs can work as a compliment to conventional western medicine.
Look for Hawthorn at health food stores, pharmacies or grocery stores. This herb is best prepared as a tea. Add one teaspoon of the dried herb to boiling water and give it a few minutes to steep and cool down. Two cups of Hawthorn tea consumed on a regular basis should help to keep your blood pressure in check.
Two other herbs that are very beneficial for this purpose include coenzyme Q10 and garlic. For those with high blood pressure instituting necessary lifestyle modifications should count for a lot. This includes exercising on a regular basis, eating as few fatty and fried foods as possible, eating lots of vegetables and finding effective ways to cope with stress.
Becca
Alternative Health for Today 
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