Foods to Combat Hypertension 

Hypertension is very common condition among the masses, it is also known as high blood pressure. The condition requires lifestyle modification and changes along with medication and treatments if necessary. Some herbs might have a positive effect and can help you lower high blood pressure.

• Basil: Its extract has been proven to have a blood pressure-lowering effect but only briefly. Eugenol which is found in basil is a chemical that blocks substances that tighten blood vessels. This results in dropping the blood pressure. But more studies are required. Still adding fresh basil leaves to your everyday cooking has no side effects.

• Cinnamon: It can have blood pressuring lowering effects as the cinnamon extract is able to lower both — prolonged case of hypertension and sudden-onset of hypertension.

• Cardamom: This spice has a lot of health benefits and its powder or seeds can be used in a variety of ways to reduce blood pressure.

• Flax Seeds (omega 3 rich fatty acids): It protects against cardiovascular diseases as it is an antioxidant and improves glucose tolerance by reducing serum cholesterol. Store it in a freezer to maintain its optimum potency.

• Garlic: It helps to increase nitric oxide in our body that helps to relax and dilate our blood vessels resulting in reduced blood pressure and increased blood flow.

• Ginger: It helps to relax the muscles around blood vessels and improves blood circulation resulting in controlled blood pressure.

As it is a lifestyle condition so factors like lack of exercise, smoking, stress, diet and also genetics play a major role. Usually, it is a symptomless condition thus known as “the silent killer.” Which makes it very important for us to keep a regular check on our blood pressure because elevated blood pressure can lead to stroke, heart attack, diabetes, kidney disease, vision loss and heart failure. So follow a good healthy dietary approach for it and never neglect regular screening of your blood pressure.