Can Bofu-tsusho-san, an oriental medicine, help to control high blood pressure?

This study aimed to see if the addition of an oriental medicine, Bofu-tsusho-san (BOF), to traditional western medical treatment could be beneficial in lowering high blood pressure in the treatment of obesity.

In the western world the rate of obesity is rising. Obesity is associated with the development of type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease and is often associated with hypertension (high blood pressure). There is a growing interest in alternative treatment methods for obesity and its associated symptoms.

Bofu-tsusho-san (BOF) is a mix of different herbs commonly used in Japan for the treatment of obesity. Previous studies have shown BOF has a positive effect on metabolism and appetite suppression. It is not known whether BOF also has a positive effect on ambulatory blood pressure (the change in blood pressure over the course of the day). These changes in blood pressure can have a negative impact on cardiovascular health.

This study examined the effectiveness of BOF as a treatment for hypertension. Patients involved in the study had a body mass index (BMI, a measure of body fat that takes height and weight into account) that classified them as obese and had a history of hypertension. One group (52 patients) were treated with conventional medicine for obesity and hypertension (changes to diet and blood pressure-lowering medications). A second group (54 patients) were treated with the conventional methods, but were also given BOF. Patients were for monitored for 24 weeks. Blood pressure was monitored for 24 hours a day using a blood pressure monitor.

After 24 weeks, average blood pressure levels decreased similarly in both the conventional treatment group and the BOF treatment group. BOF, however, significantly decreased the variability of daytime blood pressures compared to conventional treatment alone. BOF also led to a greater weight loss (2.8 kg) than did conventional treatment methods (1.2 kg). BMI was significantly reduced in the BOF group (decrease of 1.1 kg/m²) compared to the conventional treatment group (increase of 0.5 kg/m²).

This study suggested that Bofu-tsusho-san decreased the variability of ambulatory blood pressure when used in combination with conventional treatment methods.

Patients were followed for a very short time in this study. The long-term safety and effectiveness of BOF need to be examined.

Discuss any use of herbs and supplements with your physician, as they may interact with other medications.