ACUPRESSURE FOR HYPERTENSION

Acupressure Therapy for Hypertension

Acupressure (a blend of "acupuncture" and "pressure") is a complementary medicine technique derived from acupuncture. In acupressure physical pressure is applied to acupuncture points by the hand, elbow, or with various devices.

Traditional Chinese medicine's (TCM) acupuncture theory predates use of the scientific method, and has received various criticisms based on scientific thinking. The anatomical or histological basis of acupuncture points or meridians, if they actually exist, is unknown. Acupuncturists tend to perceive TCM concepts in functional rather than structural terms, i.e. as being useful in guiding evaluation and care of patients. Neuro-imaging research suggests that certain acupuncture points have distinct effects that are not otherwise predictable anatomically.

Acupressure Work Theory

According to the principles of TCM, qi flows through the body via 14 primary meridians or channels. To strengthen the flow of qi, or remove blockages in the meridians, an acupuncturist inserts a number of tiny, sterile, flexible needles just under the skin at certain specific points (called acupoints) along the channels. There are four to five hundred named acupoints along the meridians, some of which are associated with specific internal organs or organ systems.

If you are suffering from nausea, for example, needles might be inserted into acupoints on your wrist, while a vision problem might be treated with needles in the foot. (Additional ear, scalp, and hand points are also commonly used by some practitioners.) Acupuncture practitioners believe that the therapy stimulates the body’s internal regulatory system and nurtures a natural healing response.

A variant system known as two point acupressure attempts to bypass a blockage of vital flow by using one acupoint to create a link with one of the collateral meridians, and then using one additional acupoint to stimulate or reduce the flow around the obstruction.

Acupressure for hypertension

In traditional Oriental medicine, hypertension is said to be intimately connected with blockages in the Liver meridian. The following points are useful for managing acupressure:

Gb 20, Li 11, Ht 3, St 36, Lv 3, and Kd 1

Caution: If blood pressure exceeds 200/100, do not do acupressure at all.

1. (Gb 20, Wind Pool)

How to locate this point: Place your thumbs on your earlobes. Slide them back toward the center of your neck. Now your thumbs will be approximately one thumb width above the hairline of your neck. Your thumbs will fall into a depression on either side of the vertebra of your neck, at the base of the skull. (If you slowly bend your head forward and then back again, you will be able to identify these depressions easily.) Wind Pool (Gb 20) is located in these depressions.

How to apply pressure: Use the thumbs to apply medium to firm pressure, and hold for a minute or even more. Breathe deeply and build up and release pressure gradually.

Gb 20 is helpful in relieving headaches and colds, neck stiffness and pain, and helps to regulate the internal movement of energy.

2. Li 11 and Ht 3

How to locate points: To locate Li 11, hold your arm in front of your chest, as if you were holding a cup in your hand. The point is at the outside end of the crease on your arm at the elbow joint.

To find Ht 3 (Lesser Sea), hold your palms facing up. From Li 11 slide your fingers across the elbow crease until you feel the bony projection of the outside of your funny bone. Just above this bony projection is a natural depression. Ht 3 is in this depression.

Applying pressure: Place your thumb on Ht 3 and your middle finger on Li 11 and apply strong pressure for about a minute.

3. (St 36, Three Mile Foot) 

St 36 is the most effective point to rejuvenate the ch'i and blood. The combination of Li 11 and St 36 is used extensively to treat hypertension.

How to locate St 36: This point is located four finger widths below the lower border of the kneecap and one finger width off the shin bone to the outside. Flex your foot up and down; you will feel the muscle move under your fingers if you are on St 36.

Applying pressure: Apply moderate to firm pressure on St 36. Hold the pressure for one minute. This point can also be stimulated either with the heel of your opposite foot, or with your fingers.

4. (Lv 3, Bigger Rushing) 

Traditional Oriental medicine practitioners believe that hypertension is intimately connected with blockages in the liver meridian. Lv 3 exerts a powerful, beneficial influence on all aspects of the body associated with the liver meridian.

How to locate Lv 3: This point is located on the top of your foot, between the big toe and second toe.

Start at the web margin of skin between the two toes. Now slide your index finger up between the bones until you feel a depression about 1/2 inch up.

Applying pressure: Using your index finger, press between the bones. Start with light pressure. Increase the pressure gradually as much as you can tolerate or until you are using moderate to firm pressure. Press for about 1 minute.

5. (Kd 1, Bubbling Spring)

How to Locate Point: Kd 1 is on the sole of the foot between the second and third toe bone, two thirds of the distance from the heel to the base of the second toe. It's just below the ball of the foot.

Applying pressure: Press firmly on the point for about a minute .

Article Source: http://www.holisticonline.com/remedies/Heart/hypert_acupressure.htm

MASSAGE THERAPY FOR HYPERTENSION

Simple Massage Techniques For Hypertension

By: Ryan English

Massage is a gentle way of soothing away sickness almost any kind of sickness. It stands in the contention that a sickness is the result of poor bodily functions that has sprouted from a variety of causes like poor blood circulation. Massage therapy causes gentle effects on our arteries and is found to increase blood flow without increasing blood pressure. Recent studies also found out that massage can lower both systolic and diastolic high blood pressure.

An exclusive study that has been recently conducted yields a positive result regarding the effects of massage in hypertension. The said study proved that it can decrease the possibility of having heart attacks through hypertension by promoting smooth circulation of blood. An ancient myth that says using massage to counter HBP a taboo is now debunked. 

The "Side Effect" Dilemma 

Having hypertension is not a joke but rather it is some sort of an ordeal that should be survived everyday. It can cause many discomforts as well as anxieties that lead to the worsening of the condition everyday. Drug-related treatment of this disease can be effective but the ill side effect of the method is also inevitable. One of the most prominent side effects of drug treatment for high blood pressure is kidney failure.  

Due to prolonged exposure to chemicals brought inside our body by the drugs we take in order to counter hypertension effects, some parts of our body suffer due to the constant and undesirable effects of it. The liver acts as a filter for all the substances that  enter our body, and if faced with the constant exposure to strong chemicals from certain drugs, it become weak and eventually break down. Same is true with our kidneys. They too can suffer from the ill effects of drugs used to combat HBP. 

Gentle Way is the Best Way 

When we are suffering from maladies, it is our human instinct to seek for a cure of it and putting high blood pressure in mind, we sure don't want to jeopardize safety by using treatment methods that has proven bad side effects. This is where the benefit of a massage can be made use of.  

Massage has a natural calming effect in the central nervous system. When our body is properly massaged, it signals our brain to release dopamine, a hormone most notable for its "feel-good" effect to be released into our bloodstream, thus causing the following: 

• Decreasing the pressure against the walls of the arteries caused by the surging blood
• A relaxed heart and a smooth blood flow. Because of the fact thatt our whole body is relaxed, all pressures and stress points in our body can relax as well, leading to a relaxed feeling, therefore it aids in the lowering of blood pressure.

Aside from staying away from the sources of high blood pressure like unhealthy lifestyles and poor diets, having a regular massage can aid greatly in fighting hypertension. It does not only give relaxation but it also gives more benefit than we really expected. Lowering the blood pressure is one.

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Article Source: Massage For Your HBP - Simple Massage Techniques For High Blood Pressure

Additional Information on Massage for Hyprtension:

As hypertension is strongly related to stress, massage therapy sessions are really beneficial to relieve stress and tension. By managing your stress, you will eventually manage your blood pressure. Another good point about using a hypertension massage therapy is that it can also lower related symptoms such as depression, anxiety and hostility.

Here are some scientific studies on massage therapy for hypertension:

People who had been diagnosed with hypertension were given massages for five weeks (ten 30-minute sessions) experienced lowered blood pressure, less hostile behavior, less depression and lower salivary and urinary hormone levels (cortisol). Researchers concluded that massage therapy may be useful in lessening the symptoms of hypertension and lowering diastolic blood pressure .

- Hernandez-Reif, M., Field, T., Krasnegor, J., Theakston, H., Hossain, Z., & Burman, I. (2000). -- High blood pressure and associated symptoms were reduced by massage therapy. -- Journal of Bodywork and Movement Therapies, 4, 31-38.

Following myofascial trigger-point massage therapy, subjects showed a significant decrease in heart rate, systolic blood pressure and diastolic blood pressure. Subjects also felt a decrease in muscle tension and an improved state of emotion. Analysis of heart rate variability revealed a significant increase in parasympathetic activity.

- Delaney, J.P., Leong, K.S., Watkins, A., & Brodie, D. (2002). -- The short-term effects of myofascial trigger point massage therapy on cardiac autonomic tone in healthy subjects. -- Journal of Advanced Nursing, 37, 364-71.

Sources: http://www.personalhealthzone.com/therapy/massage/hypertension.html

YOGA AND MEDITATION Part 2

Meditation for the treatment of Hypertension

Yoga and meditation are the alternative means for hypertension treatment. It as been scientifically proven, that yoga and meditation are of great value in reducing blood pressure. It seems that they work on the peace of mind and balancing of the mind, body and spirit. We have discussed Yoga in the previous post, let’s discuss meditation now.

Meditation is one of the alternative means for hypertension treatment. It as been scientifically proven, that meditation is of great value in reducing blood pressure. It seems that they work on the peace of mind and balancing of the mind, body and spirit

Meditation is very useful for people with hypertension which is proven to reduce the dependency on antihypertensive drugs. Dr. Jeffrey A Dusek and friends from The Massachusetts General Hospital declared that patients with isolated systolic hypertension possess better chances to reduce their dosage of anti-hypertension by 1 tablet when they practice meditation compared to those not practicing it.

Meditation

Meditation is a holistic discipline by which the practitioner attempts to get beyond the reflexive, "thinking" mind into a deeper state of relaxation or awareness. Meditation is a component of many religions, and has been practiced since antiquity. It is also practiced outside religious traditions. Different meditative disciplines encompass a wide range of spiritual goals—from achievement of a higher state of consciousness, compassion and loving kindness, to greater focus, creativity or self-awareness, or simply a more relaxed and peaceful frame of mind.

Eastern meditation techniques have been adapted and increasingly practiced in Western culture.

Meditation has been defined as: "self regulation of attention, in the service of self-inquiry, in the here and now." The various techniques of meditation can be classified according to their focus. Some focus on the field or background perception and experience, often referred to as "mindfulness"; others focus on a pre-selected specific object, and are called "concentrative" meditation. There are also techniques that shift between the field and the object.

Mindfulness Meditation

In mindfulness meditation, the meditator sits comfortably and silently, centering attention by focusing awareness on an object or process (such as the breath; a sound, such as a mantra, koan or riddle-like question; a visualization; or an exercise). The meditator is usually encouraged to maintain an open focus:

... shifting freely from one perception to the next clear your mind of all that bothers you no thoughts that can distract you from reality or your personal being... No thought, image or sensation is considered an intrusion. The meditator, with a 'no effort' attitude, is asked to remain in the here and now. Using the focus as an 'anchor'... brings the subject constantly back to the present, avoiding cognitive analysis or fantasy regarding the contents of awareness, and increasing tolerance and relaxation of secondary thought processes.

Concentration Meditation

Concentration meditation is used in many religions and spiritual practices. Whereas in mindfulness meditation there is an open focus, in concentration meditation the meditator holds attention on a particular object (e.g., a repetitive prayer) while minimizing distractions; bringing the mind back to concentrate on the chosen object.

Meditation can be practiced while walking or doing simple repetitive tasks. Walking meditation helps break down habitual automatic mental categories, "thus regaining the primary nature of perceptions and events, focusing attention on the process while disregarding its purpose or final outcome." In a form of meditation using visualization, such as Chinese Qi Gong, the practitioner concentrates on flows of energy (Qi) in the body, starting in the abdomen and then circulating through the body, until dispersed. Some meditative traditions, such as yoga or tantra, are common to several religions. (Extracted from Wikipedia)

Interested to Learn More about and Practice Meditation the Right Way? Click Here!

The fact is that we live in an "exhausted" society. And I'm sure you've had first hand experience with the ever present "energy drain" of modern life. What a relief it is to learn that a simple physical practice of meditation can give such an amazing energy boost. And not just a temporary jolt, but permanent improvement. To exercise meditation properly, I recommend you to learn more about meditation at this resourceful place: Teach Meditation   

Article by: Uno Birawan

YOGA AND MEDITATION Part 1

Yoga for the treatment of Hypertension

Yoga and meditation are the alternative means for hypertension treatment. It as been scientifically proven, that yoga and meditation are of great value in reducing blood pressure. It seems that they work on the peace of mind and balancing of the mind, body and spirit. Lets discuss Yoga first.

Yoga (Sanskrit, Pāli: yóga) refers to traditional physical and mental disciplines originating in India. The word is associated with meditative practices in Hinduism, Buddhism and Jainism. In Hinduism, it also refers to one of the six orthodox (āstika) schools of Hindu philosophy, and to the goal toward which that school directs its practices. In Jainism it refers to the sum total of all activities—mental, verbal and physical.

Major branches of yoga in Hindu philosophy include Raja Yoga, Karma Yoga, Jnana Yoga, Bhakti Yoga, and Hatha Yoga. Raja Yoga, compiled in the Yoga Sutras of Patanjali, and known simply as yoga in the context of Hindu philosophy, is part of the Samkhya tradition. Many other Hindu texts discuss aspects of yoga, including Upanishads, the Bhagavad Gita, the Hatha Yoga Pradipika, the Shiva Samhita and various Tantras.

The Sanskrit word yoga has many meanings, and is derived from the Sanskrit root "yuj", meaning "to control", "to yoke" or "to unite." Translations include "joining", "uniting", "union", "conjunction", and "means". An alternate root from which the word yoga may be derived is "yujir samadhau", which means "contemplation" or "absorption."

This translation fits better with the dualist Raja Yoga because it is through contemplation that discrimination between prakrti (nature) and purusha (pure consciousness) occurs. Outside India, the term yoga is typically associated with Hatha Yoga and its asanas (postures) or as a form of exercise. Someone who practices yoga or follows the yoga philosophy is called a yogi or yogini. (Yoga information as posted from Wikipedia)

As defined above, the word yoga means "union" in Sanskrit, the language of ancient India where yoga is originated. Yoga reflects the union between the mind, body and spirit.

What is commonly referred to as "yoga" can be more accurately described by the Sanskrit word asana, which refers to the practice of physical postures or poses.

Asana is only one of the eight "limbs" of yoga, the majority of which are more concerned with mental and spiritual well being than physical activity. In the West, however, the words asana and yoga are often used interchangeably.

About The Eight Limbs of Yoga

According to the Yoga Sutras of Patanjali, one of the ancient texts that is the basis for the philosophy behind yoga, there are eight “limbs” (Ashtanga in Sanskrit) of yoga. Each limb relates to an aspect of achieving a healthy and fulfilling life, and each builds upon the one before it. You may be surprised to hear that only one of the limbs involves the performance of yoga postures. Here is a description of the eight limbs.

1. Yama: Five ethical guidelines regarding moral behavior towards others: Ahimsa: Nonviolence, Satya: Truthfulness, Asteya: Nonstealing, Brahmacharya: Nonlust, Aparigraha: Noncovetesness

2. Niyama: Five ethical guidelines regarding moral behavior towards oneself: Saucha: Cleanliness, Santosa: Contentment, Tapas: Sustained practice, Svadhyaya: Self study, Isvara pranidhana: Surrender to God

3. Asana: Practice of yoga postures.

4. Pranayama: Practice of breathing exercises.

5. Pratyahara: Withdrawal of the senses, meaning that the exterior world is not a distraction from the interior world within oneself.

6. Dharana: Concentration, meaning the ability to focus on something uninterrupted by external or internal distractions.

7. Dhyana: Meditation, building upon Dharana, the concentration is no longer focused on a single thing but is all encompassing.

8. Samadhi : Bliss. Building upon Dhyana, the transcendence of the self through meditation. The merging of the self with the universe. Sometimes translated as enlightenment.

About Hatha Yoga

Hatha Yoga describes any of the physical practices of yoga. (Remember that yoga has eight limbs, only one of which, asana, involves doing yoga poses.) When you do Iyengar, this is hatha yoga; when you do Ashtanga, this is hatha yoga too. “Hatha yoga” can be used interchangeably with “yoga.”

Hatha yoga will likely be a slow-paced stretching session with some simple breathing exercises and perhaps seated meditation. This is a good way to learn basic poses, relaxation techniques, and become comfortable with yoga

WANT TO PRACTICE YOGA PROPERLY? Learn more about Yoga

The fact is that we live in an "exhausted" society. And I'm sure you've had first hand experience with the ever present "energy drain" of modern life. What a relief it is to learn that a simple physical practice of Yoga can give such an amazing energy boost. And not just a temporary jolt, but permanent improvement. To exercise yoga properly, I recommend you to learn more about Shape Shifter Yoga at this resourceful place, Just Click Here!  

Article by: Uno Birawan

TRADITIONAL HERBAL FORMULAS

Traditional Herbal Formulas for Hypertension 

Hypertension has been treated traditionally since hundreds of years ago. Find here two herbal formula from the ancient time of China and Indonesia, and still prescribed today for the treatment of hypertension

Chinese Herbal Formula for Hypertension 

GASTRODIA AND UNCARIA BEVERAGE

Chinese name: tien ma gou teng yin

This is a recently revised traditional formula listed in the mainland Chinese medical text entitled New Cure for Chronic Ailments and Symptoms. According to traditional Chinese medicine, in order to cure high blood pressure, first the associated liver-fire must be corrected. Liver-fire overheats the blood, and via the generative relationship of liver-Wood to Heart-Fire, an inflamed liver also over-stimulates the heart, which further elevates blood pressure. The formula balances the liver-energy and brings flaring liver-yang back down to normal.

INDICATIONS: Hypertension, with related symptoms of headache, dizziness, insomnia tinnitus (ringing in the ears), heart palpitations, breathing difficulties, bloating, bloodshot eyes, and nervous tension,

INGREDIENTS:
Uncaria rhynchophylla 30 grams
Gastrodia elata 15 grams
Chrysanthemum 10 grams
Tribulus terrestris 12 grams
Loranthus yadoriki 24 grams
Prunella vulgaris 15 grams
Earthworm* 6 grams
Brown rice 15 grams
Oyster-shell powder** 30 grams
Pearl powder** 30 grams
Costus 15 grams
Eucommia 12 grams
Notes:
*Earthworm (Pheretima aspergillum) is an antipyretic liver sedative that specifically lowers blood pressure. Vegetarians can omit this, since it is a minor ingredient here
**Oyster-shell and pearl (Ostrea rivularis) also sedate liver-fire. These parts of the oyster are regarded as minerals, not animal products, and do not violate vegetarian guidelines.

PREPARATION AND DOSAGE: Decoction: two doses, on an empty stomach

REMARKS: Those with hypertension are advised to avoid alcohol, tobacco, coffee and tea, stimulating spices, deep fried and other oily foods, as well as raw and cold foods. Chinese healers strongly advised against using Western remedies for this condition, which simply lower blood pressure by chemical means without in any way curing the condition. Such drug actually prolong the ailment by flushing materials from the blood stream that are required to regulate blood pressure, and they also have other undesirable side effects. When such medications are stopped, the condition flares up worse than ever, leading to a lifelong drug dependence

A good patent remedy for this condition is Jiang Ya Wan (Lower Blood Pressure Pills), which can be used as a substitute when it is inconvenient to prepare the above formula, such as traveling. Neither the formula nor the patent alternative should be used during pregnancy

Due to potential dangers and complications of high blood pressure, we suggest that people consult a qualified health professional before using these or any other remedies for this condition

Indonesian Jamu Recipe for Hypertension

PATHO-PHYSIOLOGY: High blood pressure or hypertension is one of the risk factors that increase the incidence of a heart disease. Hypertension is a persistent elevation above the normal limits of 120 – 150 mm Hg. systolic (millimeters of mercury at the time of the heart beat) and 80 – 100 diastolic (when the heart is at rest). Hypertension is actually not a disease itself, but rather a symptom of variety of disease that differs in nature and significance.

INDICATION: Hypertension

INGREDIENTS:
Child pick-a-pack (Phyllanthus niruri, tanaman meniran) – 2 whole plants
Indian pennywort leaves (Centella asiatica, daun tapak kuda) – ¼ handful
Cat’s whisker leaves (Orthosiphon spicatus, daun kumis kucing) -11 leaves
Coarse grass roots (Imperata cylindrical, akar alang-alang) – 2 handsize of the roots

PREPARATION AND DOSAGE:
Decoction: Clean wash all ingredients and boil in 5 glasses of pure water. Let it boil until left to 3 glasses. Strain after cooling. Dosage: ½ glass 3 times a day.

REMARKS: This decoction is also effective for the treatment of muscle cramps and numbness as well as to treat hyper-uricemia or excess uric acid in the blood.

IMPORTANT NOTE

The recipes and techniques mentioned in this page are not meant to replace diagnosis and treatment of a medical practioner. Before using any of these recipes, the author recommends to consult a physician. All the recipes has been used without any side effects and are considered safe. However, since some people have more sensitive skin or digestive system than others, and since the user’s actual recipe preparation is beyond the control of the author, the author accept no liability with regard to the use of recipes or techniques contained in this page

Article by: Uno Birawan

HYPERTENSION HERBAL TREATMENT

Herbal Treatment, Herbal Remedies in Use

Herbal treatment using herbal remedies made of herbs, plants and even fruits has been a long practice for thousand of years in the eastern part of the world, China, India and Indonesia in particular. The knowledge about healing herbs, formula compounding and the art of healing from ancient time has been recorded neatly in manuscripts and other means of written knowledge.

Our ancestors have taught this precious knowledge from generation to generation and at present are well known as the Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), Indian Ayurvedic Medicine and Indonesian Traditional Jamu Healing.

The similarity of each healing tradition lies in their basic concept which put forward the holistic approach when curing a disease or disorder. This is a holistic approach which balances the inner power or energy of a human being with the nature represented by the healing herbs and plants as a gift of God.

Each healing herb or plant has their own characteristic translated into the warm-cold, sweet-bitter, dry-wet, positive and negative, and so on, as the great principle of equilibrium. On the other hand, diseases or disorders are also translated similarly according to this principle.

The following are some well known healing herbs that have been proven to be effective for the treatment of hypertension in those three long proven effective tradition of healing:

HYPERTENSION HEALING HERBS

ALFALFA (Medicago satina)

Indian Name: Alfalfa. This is a leguminous herb that grows up to 50 cm in height. It has rich green alternate leaves, purplish flowers and adapts itself to widely varying conditions of soil and climate. Alfalfa is an effective remedy for high blood pressure. It contains all the elements necessary for the softening of hardened arteries, which characterize high blood pressure. Alfalfa is an effective diuretic and acts gently upon the kidneys. It is used in the treatment of the inflammation of the bladder and dropsy, a disease marked by the accumulation of the fluid in the body.

ALOE VERA (Aloe barbadensis)

Chinese name: lu hui. Indications: Internal: chronic constipation and related skin problems; gastritis, ulcers, indigestion abdominal pains and heartburn, high or low blood pressure; headache, dizziness, and irritability due to liver inflammations; intestinal parasites. External: premature baldness; scrapes, burns, sunburns, skin blemishes, and frosbite; athlete's foot; insect bites; acne; hemorrhoids 

Medicinal part: condensed juice of fresh leaves. 

Therapeutic effects: helps regulate blood pressure by clearing debris from veins and arteries 

Dosage: Condensed juice purchased from Chinese pharmacy should be taken in the following dosages for internal use, mixed with a few ounces of water: Stomachic 0.1-0.2 gram, Laxative 0.3-0.6 gram, Purgative 0.8-1.0 gram 

Contra-indications: children with empty-cold constitutions (very pale, frail, prone to respiratory disorders) should not use aloe; adults should not exceed the daily dosages suggested above

ARJUNA (Terminalia arjuna).

Arjuna is a coronary vasodilator. It protects the heart, strengthens circulation, and helps to maintain the tone and health of the heart muscle. It is also useful in stopping bleeding and to promote healing after a heart attack.

Current scientific research has proved that T.arjuna contains specific medically active constituents namely triterpine glycosides like arjunetosides I, II, III, IV, arjunine and arjunetein. Bark of Arjuna tree has been found to be rich in Co-enzyme Q-10 which is frequently prescribed in departments at this time to prevent heart problems

ASTRAGALUS (Astragalus hoantchy)

Chinese name: huang chi (huang qi). Indications: immune deficiency; cancer; chronic fatigue; high blood pressure; prolapse of internal organs; diabetes; cold and weak limbs; cold and flu; bronchitis; hepatitis; adrenal deficiency. 

Medicinal part: root 

Dosage: decoction : 8-12 grams, in two doses, on an empty stomach. Liquor: steep 80-100 grams of the sliced root in 1 liter of spirits for 2-3 months; take 1 ounce, twice daily, on an empty stomach, straight or diluted with 1-2 ounces pure water; for better results, also add 40-50 grams ginseng. 

Contra-indications: none

BLOODWORT (Achillea millefolium)

Indian Name: Rojmari or Gandana. Bloodwort is an erect herb that grows up to 30 to 60 cm high. It is bitter, aromatic, stimulant and tonic. It has leafy, grooved stems and alternate, oblong tapering leaves, 5 to 10 cm long. Its flowers are small and crowed with thin scales. The fruits are flat, oblong shaped and shining.

It is also used for treating high blood pressure. It encourages blood flow to the skin whichhelps lower blood pressure. It is the alkaloid in bloodwort which has been reported to lower blood pressure.

CELERY (Apium graveolens)

Indonesian name: Seledri. Celery has long been recommended in Jamu traditional medicine for lowering high blood pressure, and experimental evidence bears this out. In one study, injecting laboratory animals with celery extract significantly lowered their blood pressure. In humans, eating as few as four celery stalks is showing the same result.

CHINESE JUJUBE (Ziziphus vulgaris)

Chinese name: da dzao (da zao). Indications: fatigue; insomnia; hypertension; physical exhaustion; malnutrition 

Medicinal part: Fruit 

Dosage: Decoction: 6 – 12 fruits, crushed (use pliers to crush the kernels inside as well), in two doses, on an empty stomach 

Contra-indications: Gastritis, bloating, and other stomach disorders

CHRYSANTHEMUM (Chrysanthemum morifolium)

Chinese name: ju hua. Indications: headache; dizziness; eye aches, and blurry vision due to kidney and liver dysfunctions; high blood pressure; numbness of extremities. 

Medicinal part: flower 

Dosage: infusion: in a large teapot or similar non-metallic vessel, put 8-10 grams of dried flowers and add about 1 liter of boiling water: steep 15-30 minutes, then pour into a separate pot; drink frequently throughout the day, either warm, room temperature, or slightly chilled; the herb can be steeped up to three times; to further improve the flavour and enhance the therapeutic benefits, you can add 4-5 grams of either licorice or Chinese wolfberry (but not both) to the pot. 

Contra-indications: none

CODONOPSIS DANGSHEN

Chinese name:dang shen. Indications: chronic fatigue; hypertension; loss of appetite; indigestion due to hyperacidity; loose bowels; pale complexion; exhaustion after surgery or childbirth; body bloating and facial swelling due to edema; immune deficiency; hyperglycemia 

Medicinal part: root 

Dosage: decoction: 10-15 grams, in two doses, on an empty stomach; for digestive ailments, spleen dysfunction, and chronic fatigue, add 6-8 grams of Chinese jujube (crush the flesh and kernels with pliers first) 

Contra-indications: none

EAGLE WOOD (Aquilaria agallocha)

Chinese name: chen hsiang (chen xiang). Indications: pains in chest and abdomen; angina; hypertension and nervous exhaustion, with related symptoms of frequent urination, diarrhea, and gastritis; numbness and paralysis in extremities; neurosis; fatigue 

Medicinal part: Heavy resinous wood 

Dosage: Powder: plain, capsules, pills, or paste; 1 – 3 grams, in two doses, on an empty stomach 

Contra-indications: None

GARLIC (Allium sativum)

Chinese name: da suan. Indications: tumors and swelling; tuberculosis; hook-worm, pinworm, and other parasites; diarrhea and dysentery; nosebleed; bacterial infections; abscesses; high cholesterol; arteriosclerosis; high blood pressure; colds and flu; vaginitis; candida and other fungal infections; athlete's foot 

Medicinal part: Bulb 

Dosage: Fresh cloves: 3 – 5 per day; taken raw in food, or in capsules. External: puree of fresh garlic cloves can be applied to abscesses as an antiseptic and healing agent, also to ringworm on the head; for athlete’s foot, apply liberally to infected area and wrap well with a clean, dry cloth for 1 – 2 hours, then remove and wipe away excess garlic with dry cloth (but no water) 

Contra-indications: Excessive use of garlic is said to be harmful to the eyes, cause dizziness, and scatter energy; in TCM, it is said to cause ascending fire energy 

Incompatibles: Honey

GINSENG (Panax ginseng)

Chinese name: ren shen. Indications: nervous exhaustion; lack of appetite; night sweats; cold extremities; recuperation after surgery, long illness, or childbirth; short-term memory loss; impotence; stroke; diabetes; high blood pressure; anemia; heart palpitations; adrenal deficiency; immune deficiency; high or low blood pressure; gastritis; morning sickness 

Medicinal part: Root 

Dosage: Decoction (use ginseng cooker to steam decoct for 30 – 60 minutes): 5 - 10 grams, in one dose, on an empty stomach in the morning.  Acute cases: in cases of hemorrhage, stroke, heart palpitations, and other acute conditions, use 15 – 30 grams.
Liquor: steep 50 – 60 grams of high grade ginseng in 1 liter spirits for 2 – 4 months; take 1 ounce, one or two times daily, on an empty stomach 

Powder: capsules, pills, or paste; 3 – 6 grams, in two doses, on an empty stomach 

Contra-indications: Colds, pneumonia, and other lung infections 

Incompatibles: Iron and other metal compounds and utensils; amethyst; Veratum nigrum ; opium; dairy products; tea; white turnip

HAWTHORNE (Crataegus xyantha)

Hawthorne is one of the safest herbal remedies on the market. Hawthorne berries are used to treat cardiovascular disease in many different cultures. In Europe, it is one of the most popular herbs used in alternative medicine today. Studies have shown that Hawthorne berries protect arterial walls, lower blood pressure by dilating blood vessels, and strengthen the heart's pumping ability. The full effect usually takes several weeks to months to develop.

INDIAN SNAKEROOT (Rauwolfia serpentina)

This is a powerful herb that can significantly lower blood pressure with only a small dose. The effects of the herb are usually not seen until a few days after the initial administration and have a cumulative effect. Rauwolfia has some side effect the most common is nasal congestion. Less common side effects include dizziness, nausea, and dry mouth.

JAUNDICE BERRY (Berberis vulgaris)

Indian Name: Ambarbaris. Jaundice berry is an erect thorny shrub with stalked, thin and egg shaped leaves in bunches of 10, with yellow flowers and red, oblong berries. It has dark brown bark and yellow wood. 

Jaundice berry is very useful in the treatment of high blood pressure. Research has shown that it dilates the arteries thereby lowering blood pressure.

KUDZU (Pueraria lobata)

Chinese studies suggest that this weedy vine helps normalize blood pressure. In one study, a tea containing about eight teaspoons of kudzu root was given daily to 52 people for two to eight weeks. In 17 people, blood pressure declined significantly. Thirty others showed some other benefits.

Kudzu contains a chemical (puerarin) that has decreased blood pressure by 15 percent in laboratory animals. With 100 times the antioxidant activity of vitamin E, puerarin also helps prevent heart disease and cancer. (antioxidants are substances that neutralize cell-damaging oxygen molecules known as free radicals.)

SAFFRON (Crocus sativus)

This expensive herb contains a blood pressure ­lowering chemical called crocetin. Some authorities even speculate that the low incidence of heart disease in Spain is due to that nation's high saffron consumption. You can use saffron in your cooking or make a tea with it.

TUCKAHOE (Porio cocos)

Chinese name: fu ling. Indications: hypertension; heart palpitations; scant urination; indigestion and lack of appetite; insomnia; excess fluid in stomach; spermatorrhea 

Medicinal part: tuberous fungal body] 

Dosage: decoction : 8-15 grams, in two doses, on an empty stomach.
powder : plain, capsules, pills; 5-10 grams, in two doses, on an empty stomach. 

Contra-indications: none. 

Incompatibles: vinegar and any food prepared with vinegar; Ampelopsis serjanaefolia ; Sanguisorba officinalis; Justicia gendarussa ; tortoise shell; bear gall.

VALERIAN (Valeriana officinalis)

Gamma-amino butyric acid (GABA) is a substance found in our body that helps control blood pressure. Valerian contains a chemical called valerenic acid that inhibits an enzyme that breaks down GABA. Ingesting something containing valerenic acid would, in effect, ensure higher levels of GABA and lower blood pressure. Valerian is also a tranquilizer/sedative, which also helps reduce blood pressure.

WILD CHINESE JUJUBE (Ziziphus jujuba)

Chinese name: suan dzao ren (suan zao ren). Indications: insomnia; neurasthenia; heart palpitation; hypertension; profuse prespiration; chronic thirst; malnutrition 

Medicinal part: seed (kernel of the pit) 

Dosage: decoction : 6-12 grams, in two doses, on an empty stomach. 

Contra-indications: none. 

Incompatibles: Cocculus japonicus; herbs of Menispermaceae family.

Remarks: This is one of the most popular herbs for insomnia, hypertension, and other nervous disorders, Nontoxic and nutritious, it can be used long-term, and regular use is said to brighten .

Article by: Uno Birawan