In a nutshell
This study investigated if herbs and spices can help control blood pressure in patients with hypertension.
They found that herbs and spices may reduce blood pressure in patients with hypertension.
Some background
Hypertension or high blood pressure (BP) is a serious medical condition. Managing hypertension is very important as it can lead to heart attacks or death. BP can be controlled with medication. Lifestyle adjustments can also improve BP control. A healthy diet can help lower BP.
Recent evidence suggests herbs and spices (H&S) may reduce BP. H&S are recommended as a substitute for salt for patients with hypertension. This is because salt increases BP. It is unclear if H&S can lower BP.
Methods & findings
This study reviewed data from 9 clinical trials. In these trials, the effects of H&S were studied in patients with and without hypertension. Patients with BP higher than 130/80 mmHg but lower than 140/90 mmHg were considered to be ‘pre-hypertensive’. Patients with a BP equal or greater than 140/90mmHg were considered to be ‘hypertensive’.
H&S did not affect BP levels in patients with normal BP (120/80 mmHg). H&S may improve BP control in hypertensive patients. H&S may improve BP in pre-hypertensive patients at the higher end of the range.
Nigella sativa seeds may reduce BP in women with pre-hypertension. Dichrostachys glomerata spice reduced BP in hypertensive patients to normal levels. Cinnamon may reduce BP but more research is needed. Korean red ginseng may reduce BP in pre-hypertensive patients. Turmeric and red pepper may be useful in lowering BP in hypertensive patients.
The bottom line
The authors concluded that certain herbs and spices may reduce blood pressure in patients with hypertension.
The fine print
The effects of H&S are not fully clear. Further investigation is needed to determine if there are any beneficial effects.
Published By :
Journal of hypertension
Date :
Oct 08, 2018
