Expert: Dr. Kristina Conner - 4/9/2009

Question
Just wanted to know what you would recommend to try to lower blood pressure naturally. I am on meds and have been for 4 years.  I was put on Medformin last year and wanted to know what I can do or use instead of medication for that as well. God bless you!

Answer
Hello Andrea,
Thanks for your question.  Many people find that they can reduce or eliminate the need for blood pressure-lowering medications with a  naturopathic approach, after all possible causes have been ruled out.  To develop an individualized treatment plan to help you lower your blood pressure, I'd suggest seeing a naturopathic doctor (www.naturopathic.org) or a medical doctor who uses natural therapies (www.holistic.org) in your area, for specific recommendations.  But you can start this process on your own, by changing lifestyle habits that contribute to high blood pressure.  A big advantage is that these changes may improve other conditions such as diabetes and high cholesterol, and lead to a lower risk of developing complications from these conditions.  
Lowering stress in your life and learning how to cope with stress are necessary steps for optimal health.  Incorporating exercise into your life is important not only for lowering blood pressure but also for increasing the quality of your life. Reaching and maintaining your ideal body weight helps lower and stabilize blood pressure.  Diet changes may include reducing salt and processed foods, reducing sugar and simple carbohydrates, replacing caffeine drinks, alcohol, and sodas with water and herbal teas, and increasing fish, fruit, vegetables, legumes, nuts, sedds, and whole grains. Supplements to the diet can also be helpful, such as essential fatty acids, calcium, magnesium, potassium, and Coenzyme Q10.  Herbs such as garlic, hawthorn, and rauwolfia are commonly used to lower blood pressure along with lifestyle changes; this is best done under the supervision of an experienced practitioner.  Other therapies such as homeopathy, chiropractic, acupuncture, etc, may alos be beneficial to include in your plan.  
In health,
Dr Conner