What are the easiest and effective home remedies for high pressure? High blood pressure, or hypertension, is a common health problem that can have serious consequences for the heart, brain, kidneys, and other organs. To control high blood pressure, doctors usually prescribe various medications that must be taken regularly. But sometimes, there may be situations where blood pressure suddenly and dangerously increases and emergency care is needed.
In these cases, you should immediately contact your doctor and use the prescribed medications. But are there ways to lower high blood pressure immediately at home without medication? Management and treatment of high blood pressure at home includes changes in lifestyle and taking medications. In this article from the Human Health Mag website, we will explore various aspects of managing high blood pressure, answering questions such as the best ways to manage high blood pressure naturally, herbal remedies, and the effects of exercise and massage.
Symptoms of a Hypertensive Crisis and Emergency
A hypertensive crisis or emergency can damage vital organs and therefore requires immediate medical intervention. Recognizing its symptoms can help prevent serious problems and save a person’s life. These symptoms include:
- Dizziness
- Confusion
- Headache
- Breathing problems like shortness of breath
- Vomiting
- Decreased urine output
- Numbness and weakness
- Difficulty speaking
- Vision changes such as double vision or blurred vision
- Chest pain
High Blood Pressure (Non-Crisis)
If you do not have the symptoms of a hypertensive crisis but your blood pressure is 180 (systolic) over 120 (diastolic) or higher, in addition to taking initial measures, monitor your blood pressure and measure it every 5 minutes.
If your blood pressure does not decrease after several measurements at 5-minute intervals and you still have no symptoms, it is best to see a doctor within a maximum of 48 hours. The reason for this is that a doctor can control it by adjusting or changing the dose of your blood pressure medications. This will prevent other problems such as heart and kidney failure. However, if you do not see a doctor, your blood pressure level may reach a critical state. In this situation, the vital organs of the body may be gradually damaged, and other problems may arise.
Immediate Actions to Lower Non-Crisis High Blood Pressure at Home
To immediately lower high blood pressure at home, there are several strategies. These strategies prevent the high blood pressure from becoming a crisis and affecting other organs. One of the most important of these home remedies for high pressure is taking a forgotten dose, which can be effective in increasing the impact of the medication. Additionally, drinking water and consuming foods like dark chocolate can be beneficial and effective. Stress management and avoiding tobacco are other methods that help reduce high blood pressure. Below, we will explain these strategies and other methods for lowering high blood pressure.
Taking a Forgotten Dose of Medication
Taking your medications regularly and on time helps better control blood pressure and prevents sudden fluctuations. Therefore, it is best to set reminders for yourself to take your medication at regular times. However, if you forget a dose of your medication and there is a lot of time left before the next dose, take it as soon as you remember. Obviously, if the next dose is due soon, you should postpone taking the forgotten dose until the next scheduled time. Also, taking two doses at the same time can be very dangerous and should be avoided. If a long time has passed since the forgotten dose, wait until the next dose. Furthermore, never take two doses together, as it can create serious risks for you.
Continuous Blood Pressure Monitoring
Regular monitoring of blood pressure is very important in preventing other problems and taking timely action to lower it. Therefore, check your blood pressure every 5 minutes. If it continues to rise or doesn’t decrease, be sure to see a doctor within a maximum of 48 hours. Also, if you experience any symptoms in your body’s organs during this time, see a doctor immediately.
Stress Management
Stress is a significant factor in increasing blood pressure. Therefore, reducing it helps a great deal in lowering and controlling blood pressure. Among the most effective stress-reduction techniques are deep breathing exercises and washing your hands and face with lukewarm water. A more detailed explanation of these home remedies for high pressure is provided below.
Breathing Exercises
Deep breathing can lead to the body calming down and blood pressure decreasing. To do this, slowly take a deep breath through your nose, hold it for a few seconds, and then exhale through your mouth. Repeat this several times until you feel calm. After repeating this a few times, stress and tension will decrease, leading to a drop in blood pressure.
Washing Hands and Face (with Lukewarm Water)
Washing your hands and face with lukewarm water can help reduce stress, calm the nerves, and create a sense of freshness and calm. This is a simple and effective method for lowering blood pressure and calming nerves in stressful situations. However, be careful not to use cold water, as it can cause blood vessels to constrict and double the increase in blood pressure.
Avoid Lying Down
When blood pressure rises, it is better to avoid lying down, as this can reduce blood flow to the brain. As a result, high blood pressure may be intensified. Therefore, it is better to sit calmly until your blood pressure decreases and you feel better.
Avoid Using or Being Exposed to Tobacco
Using tobacco and being exposed to cigarette smoke can cause an increase in blood pressure. The reason for this is that the nicotine in tobacco causes blood vessels to constrict, and this constriction will be accompanied by an increase in blood pressure. Therefore, avoid exposure to tobacco as much as possible.
Drinking Water (in Small Amounts)
Drinking a small amount of water can keep the body hydrated and lower blood pressure by improving blood circulation. Therefore, try to drink some water, but avoid over-consuming it, as it can have the opposite effect and increase blood pressure. The reason for this is that excessive water consumption increases blood volume, which can put pressure on blood vessels and lead to an increase in blood pressure.
Consuming Dark Chocolate: An Enjoyable Home Remedies for High Pressure Consuming a small amount of dark chocolate can lower blood pressure. This is due to the flavonoids present in this type of chocolate, which help improve the health of blood vessels. Additionally, the endorphins in dark chocolate calm the body and reduce stress, which in turn can have a significant effect on lowering blood pressure. Also, be sure to use dark chocolate and never consume milk or sugary chocolates. Chocolate for seniors, especially dark chocolate, can be an important part of the diet of people at this age.
Avoid Eating Until Blood Pressure Decreases
Until your blood pressure has decreased, avoid eating, especially salty and fatty foods. Also, refrain from consuming caffeinated substances like tea and coffee, as caffeine increases blood pressure. In fact, when you consume this substance, hormones are released in the body that constrict blood vessels and increase blood pressure.
Contacting and Informing Loved Ones
In a situation where blood pressure rises, it is best to inform one of your loved ones. Share your condition with them and explain your current symptoms. This way, if your situation becomes an emergency, they can help you and quickly contact emergency services. Additionally, they will be aware of your recent symptoms and, by explaining them to the doctor, can help with timely actions and a quicker resolution of the problem.
Reducing Blood Pressure with Traditional Medicine
Traditional medicine offers various methods for lowering high blood pressure. These home remedies for high pressure are used as a supplement to medicinal treatments and can regulate blood pressure in the long term. However, you should consult with your doctor before using them. Below, we will review several plant-based and natural substances effective in reducing blood pressure.
High Blood Pressure Treatment at Home with Lemon Juice
Lemon juice contains beneficial compounds that directly and indirectly lower blood pressure. The most important of these compounds are vitamin C and antioxidants, which help improve vascular health and blood circulation. Additionally, fresh lemon juice is a diuretic and can lower blood pressure by eliminating excess sodium.
How to Use: Squeeze half a lemon into a glass of water and consume it daily before breakfast or lunch. According to research, daily consumption of lemon juice combined with walking can have a significant effect on reducing blood pressure.
Home Remedies for High Pressure: Barberry Juice
Barberry juice has anti-inflammatory compounds that improve vascular health. Furthermore, barberry can help lower blood pressure by increasing the excretion of excess fluids from the body. According to studies, barberry juice is effective not only in lowering blood sugar but also in reducing blood pressure in diabetic patients.
How to Use: To prepare barberry juice, soak 50 grams of fresh or dried barberries in cold water. Then, strain the mixture after a few hours and consume one small glass of it once or twice a day. It is best to prepare and consume barberry juice fresh.
Home Remedies for High Pressure: Black Grape Juice
Black grape juice is rich in polyphenols and antioxidants that dilate blood vessels and improve blood flow. These substances also prevent the formation of blood clots, thereby lowering blood pressure. According to studies, this drink can be an effective natural supplement in managing blood pressure and enhancing the effects of exercise on blood pressure reduction. Therefore, consuming black grape juice after exercise doubles its effect on lowering blood pressure.
How to Use: Consume one small glass of natural, unsweetened black grape juice daily. Regular consumption of this drink can help regulate blood pressure.
Home Remedies for High Pressure: Unripe Grape Juice
Unripe grape juice (verjuice) can reduce oxidative stress, which is a factor in high blood pressure. Also, consuming verjuice can lower bad cholesterol and increase good cholesterol, which improves vascular function and reduces blood pressure.
According to studies, verjuice consumption can lower blood pressure in individuals with high fat and blood pressure. However, other research shows that a high dose can have the opposite effect and increase blood pressure. Therefore, consuming up to 200 ml per day is harmless and can have positive effects on blood pressure reduction. Verjuice can be consumed with foods like salads and stews.
Apple Cider Vinegar: One of the Effective Home Remedies for High Pressure
Apple cider vinegar has anti-inflammatory properties that can help improve vascular health. Additionally, consuming vinegar can lower blood pressure by reducing insulin sensitivity and blood sugar. Studies show that apple cider vinegar can be effective in regulating blood pressure, but it should be used as a supplement alongside medicinal treatments.
How to Use: Mix one to two tablespoons of apple cider vinegar in a glass of lukewarm water and consume it once a day, preferably before a meal. To reduce the pungent taste of the vinegar, you can add some honey.
Home Remedies for High Pressure: Borage
Borage can reduce stress and calm the nerves. Therefore, its consumption can be effective in lowering blood pressure. Studies on animal subjects show that borage oil, due to its gamma-linolenic acid, may be an effective option for the natural management of blood pressure. However, more studies are needed to confirm these effects in humans.
How to Use: Pour one tablespoon of dried borage into a glass of boiling water and let it steep for 10 to 15 minutes. This decoction can be consumed up to two times a day.
Home Remedies for High Pressure: Oregano
Oregano helps improve blood flow and reduce tension in the walls of blood vessels, which can be effective in lowering blood pressure. To consume it, pour one teaspoon of dried oregano into a glass of boiling water and let it steep for 5 to 10 minutes. Consume this decoction once or twice a day. Research shows that a diet rich in antioxidant-rich foods like oregano can help lower blood pressure.
Garlic: One of the Medicinal Plants and Food Items that Has Countless Benefits for Human Health
Garlic contains chemical compounds like allicin, adenosine, and sulfur, which help immediately lower blood pressure. Eating fresh, raw garlic is one of the herbal remedies for controlling high blood pressure. Chewing raw garlic activates allinase to release the maximum amount of allicin. Allicin dilates blood vessels and increases blood flow.
Home Remedies for High Pressure: Ginger
Ginger contains chemical compounds like gingerol, shogaol, and potassium, which help immediately lower blood pressure. Ginger can control blood pressure by increasing blood circulation and relaxing the muscles that surround the blood vessels.
Consuming Turmeric
Turmeric contains an active compound called curcumin, which has strong antioxidant, anticoagulant, and anti-inflammatory properties. This compound also helps lower blood cholesterol levels and is an excellent immediate remedy when facing high blood pressure. You can use powdered turmeric in a decoction or tea, or if you have access to raw turmeric, you can chew it to benefit from this herbal remedy.
Taking Blood Pressure Pills
Blood pressure or antihypertensive pills are medications that control blood pressure by reducing the resistance of blood vessels or reducing blood volume. There are different types of blood pressure pills, each working in a specific way.
- Diuretics (such as hydrochlorothiazide, furosemide, and spironolactone): lower blood pressure by increasing the excretion of water and salt from the body, which reduces blood volume.
- Beta-Blockers (such as atenolol, metoprolol, and bisoprolol): lower blood pressure by reducing the heart rate and the force of heart contractions.
- ACE Inhibitors (such as captopril, lisinopril, and enalapril): lower blood pressure by inhibiting an enzyme that causes blood vessels to narrow.
- Calcium Channel Blockers (such as amlodipine, diltiazem, and verapamil): Cause blood vessels to relax by blocking the entry of calcium into the muscle cells of the blood vessels, which lowers blood pressure.
If you have a history of high blood pressure, having blood pressure pills at home might be one of the most important factors that will help you control and immediately lower blood pressure at home. So, be sure to get these pills with a prescription from a specialist doctor, and always keep them at home or with you so that if you have any blood pressure issues, you can take them quickly.
High Blood Pressure Treatment at Home with Massage
Massage for seniors is a natural and relaxing home remedies for high pressure that can help reduce muscle tension, increase blood flow, and lower stress. Some studies have shown that massage can lower blood pressure either temporarily or long-term. However, not all types of massage have this effect; it depends on the type, duration, and frequency of the massage. To perform a massage to lower blood pressure, you can use various methods. Some of these methods include:
- Foot Massage: By applying pressure to specific points that are connected to different organs of the body, it can help balance blood pressure. To perform this massage, you should place your fingers on the points related to the heart, kidneys, liver, and lungs and gently apply pressure.
- Neck and Ear Massage: It can lower blood pressure by reducing tension in the neck muscles and improving blood flow to the brain. To perform this massage, you should find three points on the head and neck and gently massage them. These points are: the back of the head, the center of the collarbone, and next to the ear.
- Swedish Massage: It is a common massage method that can help reduce stress, increase blood oxygenation, and lower blood pressure with soft and smooth movements on the body’s muscles. To perform this massage, you should use oil or a moisturizing cream on the skin and use your fingers, wrists, and hands to massage the body’s muscles towards the heart.
Rapidly Lowering High Blood Pressure at Home with 5 Herbal Remedies
One of the best ways to rapidly lower high blood pressure at home is to use herbal remedies. Consuming herbal remedies like olive leaf, willow catkin, sour tea, barberry, and jujube can help lower blood pressure and improve cardiovascular health. These home remedies for high pressure can be useful as a natural supplement alongside prescribed medications due to their calming, anti-inflammatory, and vasodilatory properties.
However, it is recommended to consult with your doctor before consuming any herbal remedy to rapidly lower high blood pressure at home to prevent potential drug interactions and side effects. The herbal remedies that help lower blood pressure at home are:
- Olive Leaf
- Willow Catkin
- Sour Tea (Hibiscus)
- Barberry
- Jujube
Below, we will examine each of these herbal remedies and explain the conditions and methods of consumption in detail. If you have an elderly person, it is recommended to use in-home elderly care services, as high blood pressure is very dangerous for seniors.
Consuming Olive Leaf to Lower High Blood Pressure
Olive leaf is one of the effective home remedies for high pressure for lowering blood pressure at home. Olive leaf extract contains compounds like oleuropein, which helps dilate blood vessels and improve blood flow. Studies have shown that regular consumption of olive leaf extract can lower systolic and diastolic blood pressure and help improve cardiovascular health.
Method of Consumption: You can consume olive leaf as a decoction or use commercial olive leaf extracts. To prepare an olive leaf decoction, pour 5 to 10 grams of dried olive leaves into a cup of boiling water and let it steep for 10 to 15 minutes. You can consume this decoction 1 to 2 times a day.
Using Willow Catkin to Lower High Blood Pressure
Willow catkin is one of the well-known herbal remedies in traditional Iranian medicine. Due to its calming and anti-stress properties, it helps lower blood pressure. Willow catkin contains compounds that can help relax muscles and blood vessels, thereby lowering blood pressure. This plant also has positive effects on heart health and can help regulate heart rate.
Method of Consumption: Willow catkin is usually consumed as a syrup or decoction. To prepare a willow catkin decoction, pour one tablespoon of willow catkin flowers into a cup of boiling water and let it steep for 10 minutes. You can drink this decoction 1 to 2 times a day.
Sour Tea (Hibiscus)
Sour tea or hibiscus is another effective home remedies for high pressure for an emergency high blood pressure treatment at home. Sour tea contains antioxidants and phenolic compounds that help dilate blood vessels and improve blood flow. Some research has shown that regular consumption of sour tea can lower systolic blood pressure by up to 10 mmHg.
Method of Consumption: To prepare sour tea, pour one tablespoon of dried hibiscus flowers into a cup of boiling water and let it steep for 5 to 10 minutes. You can consume this tea hot or cold. For a better effect, it is recommended to drink 1 to 2 cups of sour tea daily.
Jujube
Jujube is another herbal remedy that can help lower blood pressure at home due to its calming and anti-inflammatory properties. Jujube contains vitamin C, flavonoids, and saponins, which help improve vascular health and reduce oxidative stress. Jujube is also beneficial for kidney failure due to its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
Method of Consumption: Jujube can be consumed fresh or dried. You can also prepare a jujube decoction. To prepare the decoction, pour a few dried jujubes into a cup of boiling water and let it steep for 10 to 15 minutes. You can drink this decoction 1 to 2 times a day.
Preventing the Recurrence and Crisis of High Blood Pressure
Preventing blood pressure from rising again and becoming a crisis requires proper management and continuous follow-up. Blood pressure can be controlled by adopting a healthy lifestyle and taking prescribed medications regularly. Below, we will provide effective strategies for controlling blood pressure and preventing its recurrence.
Diet
What foods should old people not eat? Diet plays a crucial role in controlling blood pressure. Effective dietary strategies include:
- Reducing salt intake to less than 5 grams and avoiding processed foods that contain a lot of salt.
- Increasing the consumption of potassium-rich foods like bananas, spinach, and potatoes to reduce the effects of salt.
- Consuming fiber-rich foods such as fruits, vegetables, and grains to improve cardiovascular health.
- Reducing the intake of saturated and trans fats and replacing them with low-fat protein sources like fish, chicken, legumes, and olive oil.
- Reducing the consumption of sugar and sweetened beverages to control weight.
Taking Medications and Following Treatment
The best way to prevent blood pressure from rising again is to take your prescribed medications regularly and on time. Studies show that when blood pressure medications are taken irregularly, their effect on lowering blood pressure decreases. Therefore, you must avoid changing the dose of your medications or stopping their use. Regular visits to your doctor for check-ups, blood pressure evaluation, and assessing the effectiveness of your medications are also essential.
Lifestyle Modifications
Positive changes in lifestyle can have a significant impact on lowering blood pressure and preventing its increase. The following actions can be effective in this regard:
- Losing weight if you are overweight or obese.
- Engaging in regular physical activity such as walking, cycling, or swimming for at least 30 minutes a day.
- Managing stress with breathing exercises, yoga, and meditation.
- Avoiding tobacco and alcohol consumption to improve vascular health.
My Blood Pressure is Still High, What Should I Do?
If your blood pressure remains high despite using home remedies for high pressure, it may be dangerous and you should immediately go to a doctor or the emergency room.
By providing the following information to the doctor, you can help them with a faster and more accurate treatment:
- A list of your current medications.
- The time you took the last dose of your blood pressure medication.
- A detailed explanation of symptoms like headache, dizziness, chest pain, shortness of breath, or any other unusual symptoms.
- Your medical history, especially cardiovascular and high blood pressure-related diseases.
- Information about your recent blood pressure measurements at home, including the time and values.
When Have I Passed the Dangerous Stage?
If your blood pressure has decreased from 180/120, it indicates that you have passed the dangerous stage. However, in this condition, you should still regularly check your blood pressure. If it is not stable and rises again, you should seek home or medical care. When your blood pressure reaches 120/80, it is considered normal, and there will be no risk.
Final Word
If your blood pressure is 180/120 or higher, and you have symptoms like shortness of breath, chest pain, dizziness, and a headache, you must call emergency services immediately and not rely on home remedies for high pressure. However, if you have hypertension without these symptoms, you can try to lower it by taking a forgotten dose of your blood pressure medication, managing stress, drinking water, consuming dark chocolate, and drinking a small amount of lemon juice, verjuice, or vinegar. These strategies can lower blood pressure in the short term and prevent it from becoming an emergency.
Frequently Asked Questions
What causes high blood pressure at night?
This condition can be caused by stress, sleep disorders like sleep apnea, kidney diseases, or high salt intake. High blood pressure at night is dangerous because it can increase the risk of heart disease and stroke, so regular monitoring and consulting with a doctor are essential for managing it.
Can nausea be a symptom of high blood pressure?
Yes, nausea can be a symptom of high blood pressure, especially if it is accompanied by other symptoms like a severe headache, dizziness, or chest pain. These symptoms might be a sign of a hypertensive crisis or emergency and require an immediate visit to a doctor.
Is ginger useful for lowering high blood pressure?
Ginger can help lower high blood pressure due to its anti-inflammatory properties and positive effects on blood flow. Consuming fresh ginger or ginger tea may help improve blood pressure, but it is best to consult with a doctor before regular consumption in high amounts, especially if you are taking blood pressure medication.
Can high blood pressure lead to a heart attack?
Yes, high blood pressure is a major risk factor for heart attacks because it can cause damage to blood vessels and the heart. Controlling and managing high blood pressure through medication, lifestyle changes, and diet can help reduce the risk of a heart attack.
Can abdominal pain be a sign of high blood pressure?
Abdominal pain is usually not a direct sign of high blood pressure, but it can be one of its complications. In fact, high blood pressure can lead to kidney problems or vascular diseases that may be accompanied by abdominal pain.
What does high blood pressure in the morning indicate?
High blood pressure in the early morning can be due to natural changes in the body’s system that occur in response to increased hormone activity and body movement upon waking up. It can also be a sign of uncontrolled high blood pressure or sleep disorders, and consulting with a doctor is recommended for better management.
Can facial redness be a sign of high blood pressure?
Yes, facial redness can be one of the signs of high blood pressure, especially when blood pressure increases suddenly. This symptom can be due to increased blood flow to the face and skin or physiological reactions to high blood pressure.
Can a buzzing or ringing sound in the ears be a sign of high blood pressure?
Yes, a ringing sound in the ears can be one of the signs of high blood pressure. High blood pressure can affect the blood vessels of the inner ear and cause a ringing or buzzing sound in the ears.
Why is high blood pressure known as the “silent killer”?
High blood pressure is known as the “silent killer” because of the absence of clear and specific symptoms in its early stages. Many people may be unaware of their condition until blood pressure reaches a critical level. This condition can increase the risk of heart attack, stroke, and other chronic diseases.
Can eye redness be a sign of high blood pressure?
Yes, eye redness can be one of the signs of high blood pressure. High blood pressure can cause small hemorrhages in the blood vessels of the eye or an increase in pressure within the eyes, leading to redness and inflammation on the surface of the eye.
Can consuming walnuts help lower high blood pressure?
Yes, walnuts contain omega-3 fatty acids, fiber, magnesium, and antioxidants, all of which can help improve heart health and lower blood pressure.
Can rosewater help lower high blood pressure?
Yes, rosewater, due to its calming and anti-inflammatory properties, can help reduce stress and create a sense of calm, which in turn can lower blood pressure. Drinking or smelling it can have a positive effect on blood pressure reduction.
Does a sublingual pill immediately lower high blood pressure?
Yes, a sublingual pill is used to rapidly lower high blood pressure in emergency situations. These pills, which usually contain drugs like nitroglycerin or clonidine, are placed under the tongue to be quickly absorbed into the bloodstream and lower blood pressure.
Can sugar consumption increase blood pressure?
Yes, high sugar consumption can lead to an increase in blood pressure. Sugar, especially in sweetened beverages and processed foods, can lead to weight gain, insulin resistance, and inflammation, all of which are risk factors for high blood pressure.
Can consuming black cumin help lower high blood pressure?
Yes, consuming black cumin can help lower high blood pressure. Black cumin has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties that can help improve the health of blood vessels and lower blood pressure. It is usually recommended to consume one to two teaspoons of black cumin per day in powder or oil form, with a doctor’s consultation.
Can hibiscus tea help lower high blood pressure?
Yes, hibiscus tea contains antioxidants and compounds like polyphenols that can help lower blood pressure. Drinking two to three cups of hibiscus tea per day is recommended. However, individuals taking certain medications or who have kidney problems should consult with a doctor before regular consumption.
Can green tea help lower high blood pressure?
Yes, green tea can help lower high blood pressure. Green tea is rich in antioxidants, especially catechins, which can improve the function of blood vessels. However, individuals sensitive to caffeine or those taking certain medications should consult with their doctor before consuming it.
Can pomegranate juice help lower high blood pressure?
Pomegranate juice, with its anti-inflammatory properties, can be beneficial home remedies for individuals with high blood pressure. Drinking one glass of fresh pomegranate juice per day can help improve cardiovascular health and control blood pressure.
Can sour yogurt help lower high blood pressure?
Yes, low-fat sour yogurt can help lower blood pressure because it contains probiotics and potassium, which help regulate blood pressure. Probiotics may have a positive effect on blood pressure by improving gut health and reducing inflammation.