HERBAL MEDICINE FOR HIGH BLOOD PRESSURE

Top  Herbs for High Blood Pressure

• Danshen (Salvia miltiorrhiza)

Danshen is one of the cornerstone herbs in TCM for cardiovascular health. It is widely recognized for its ability to promote blood circulation and relax the smooth muscles of the arteries. By improving microcirculation, reducing vascular resistance, and increasing oxygen delivery to tissues, Danshen may help support cardiovascular function. Its antioxidant properties may also help protect the vascular endothelium from damage associated with hypertension.

• Huangqi (Astragalus)

Best known for its immune-supporting properties, Huangqi also plays an important role in supporting heart function and helping reduce stress-related increases in blood pressure. In TCM, it is used to tonify the qi of the spleen and lungs, thereby enhancing overall vitality. For people with hypertension who also experience fatigue, Huangqi’s tonic effects may help improve energy levels and circulation.

• Tianma (Gastrodia elata)

Tianma is valued in TCM for its calming effects and is especially suitable for individuals with hypertension accompanied by dizziness, headaches, and nervous tension. It is believed to calm excessive liver yang by soothing the nervous system and reducing vascular excitability. This herb is commonly used in cases where high blood pressure is associated with stress or anxiety.

• Gouteng (Uncaria rhynchophylla)

Gouteng is a commonly used TCM herb known for extinguishing internal wind, relieving spasms, clearing heat, calming the liver, promoting circulation, relieving pain, calming the mind, and assisting in blood pressure management. One of its active compounds, rhynchophylline, has been identified as a potent activator of SIRT3 (Sirtuin 3). By activating SIRT3, it may improve the function of endothelial progenitor cells (EPCs) and help alleviate endothelial dysfunction associated with hypertension.

• Chrysanthemum (Chrysanthemum morifolium)

Chrysanthemum flowers are commonly brewed as an herbal tea. They may help relax blood vessels and support cardiovascular health. In TCM, chrysanthemum is particularly valued for clearing heat and detoxifying the body, making it especially useful for people with hypertension accompanied by symptoms of internal heat, such as red eyes and irritability.

Other Important Herbs

Several additional herbs are commonly used alongside the primary herbs listed above:

• Juemingzi (Cassia seed): Widely used to help lower blood pressure and blood lipids. Rich in flavonoids, it is also believed to clear liver heat, improve vision, and promote bowel regularity.
• Hawthorn (Crataegus spp): May help lower blood lipid levels and support cardiovascular health.
• Brahmi (Bacopa monnieri): May help reduce blood glucose levels, which could indirectly benefit vascular function. (Note: The original Chinese text incorrectly identifies 苦瓜 (bitter melon) as Bacopa monnieri. Bitter melon is Momordica charantia. This translation preserves the intended scientific name while noting the discrepancy.)
• Taoren (Peach kernel): Used to promote blood circulation, resolve blood stasis, and improve vascular elasticity.
• Honghua (Safflower) and Chi Shao (Red peony root): May promote blood circulation and help reduce inflammation.

How Herbs May Help Manage Hypertension

According to TCM theory, Chinese herbal medicine may help manage hypertension through several approaches:

1.  Regulating liver and kidney function:  Herbs such as Tianma, Gouteng, and Eucommia (Eucommia ulmoides) are used to calm excessive liver yang, nourish the kidneys, and replenish vital essence, particularly in cases attributed to liver and kidney yin deficiency.
2.  Improving blood circulation:  Herbs such as Danshen, Chuanxiong (Ligusticum chuanxiong), and Honghua (safflower) are used to promote blood circulation, reduce blood viscosity, and improve vascular flow.
3.  Lowering blood lipids:   Herbs including hawthorn, Juemingzi (Cassia seed), and lotus leaf are traditionally used to reduce cholesterol and triglyceride levels.
4.  Relieving psychological stress:  Calming herbs such as Suanzaoren (Ziziphus jujuba seed), Yuanzhi (Polygala tenuifolia), and Hehuanpi (Albizia bark) may improve sleep quality and help relieve stress.
5.  Balancing yin and yang:  Nourishing herbs such as prepared rehmannia root (Rehmannia glutinosa), cornelian cherry fruit (Cornus officinalis), and goji berries (Lycium barbarum) are used to nourish yin, support kidney function, and restore the body’s internal balance.