Take This Daily to Lower High Blood Pressure

It’s often referred to as the ‘silent killer’ due to its symptomless progression and its role as a primary risk factor for serious cardiovascular events like heart attacks and strokes.

Today we’re venturing into the heart of nature’s pharmacy to create a potent tincture designed to support a healthy cardiovascular system by lowering high blood pressure.

Beneficial Herbs for Heart Health

According to the World Health Organization, nearly 1.13 billion people worldwide have hypertension, and less than one in five have it under control.

Lifestyle choices play a prominent role. A diet high in salt and low in fruits and vegetables, excessive alcohol consumption, lack of physical activity, and smoking can all drive up your blood pressure numbers. Over time, these habits can lead to weight gain, another major contributor to hypertension.

Stress is another key factor. If you’re chronically stressed, your body may exist in this high-pressure state most of the time. Certain chronic conditions can also lead to high blood pressure, such as kidney disease, diabetes, and sleep apnea. Age and genetics also play a role.

Given the widespread prevalence of hypertension, exploring natural remedies like the heart-supportive tincture we’re making today, alongside lifestyle changes, opens up a holistic approach to managing blood pressure and boosting overall cardiovascular health. Each ingredient in this recipe has been carefully chosen for its unique therapeutic properties and benefits for cardiovascular health. I’ll guide you step-by-step as we combine Hawthorn berries, Linden, Yarrow, and Chamomile into a powerful potion, that can be taken daily to keep your blood pressure in check.

Hawthorn Berries: The Heart’s Best Friend

Hawthorn, or Crataegus monogyna, has been a staple in traditional medicine, especially when it comes to matters of the heart, both literally and metaphorically. A plant known for its beauty as much as its medicinal properties, is an emblem of the northern hemisphere’s countryside, flourishing in hedgerows and woodland edges. It captivates the senses with its dense, gnarled branches adorned with vibrant green leaves, white or pink blossoms in the spring, and clusters of brilliant red berries in the autumn.

The flavonoids found in these vibrant red berries are known for their antioxidant properties, which help combat oxidative stress, a silent enemy of cardiovascular health. They are believed to help widen blood vessels, improve blood flow, and protect against blood vessel damage. Moreover, studies have shown that Hawthorn berries may lower blood pressure by acting as a natural ACE inhibitor, which means it can help relax and dilate arteries, improving overall circulation.

Linden: The Tension Tamer

Linden, also known as Tilia, is more than just a shade tree. Often a sentinel of European city streets and countryside alike, Linden stands tall with its sturdy trunk, broad, heart-shaped leaves, and clusters of small, cream-colored fragrant flowers that attract bees in the summer.

Its flowers have been used for centuries for calming the nervous system and reducing hypertension. Linden is believed to have diuretic properties, which means it can help the body rid itself of excess fluid and sodium – a boon for blood pressure. It also contains flavonoids and volatile oils which may have a calming effect and help to lower blood pressure by relaxing the walls of blood vessels.

Yarrow: The Pressure Regulator

Achillea millefolium, or Yarrow, is a humble herb with a rich history in traditional medicine. Revered since antiquity, Yarrow’s history intertwines with folklore and medicine, earning names like “soldier’s woundwort” for its famed ability to staunch bleeding, while herbalists have long recognized its broader benefits, such as supporting digestion, reducing fever, and in our case, managing blood pressure.

This herb is known for its potential to improve cardiovascular health by promoting circulation and acting as an antihypertensive. Studies suggest that Yarrow may reduce blood pressure by promoting vasodilation, which eases the flow of blood through our veins and arteries.

Chamomile: The Nighttime Nurturer

Renowned for its soothing abilities, Chamomile (Matricaria recutita) is a gentle yet powerful herb that works wonders in promoting relaxation and sleep, both of which are essential in maintaining healthy blood pressure. Its antispasmodic properties can help relax the smooth muscles of blood vessels, promoting better blood flow. Also, by reducing stress and promoting a good night’s sleep, Chamomile indirectly supports heart health, as stress and sleep deprivation are known contributors to high blood pressure.

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DIY Tincture for Managing Blood Pressure

For this recipe, you can use fresh herbs as well as dry herbs. I prefer using dried herbs as they are more potent and easier to compact into a small jar, allowing me to get the maximum benefit with the least amount of space and alcohol used.

Ingredients:

• Hawthorn Berries (1/4 cup)
• Linden (1/4 cup)
• Yarrow (1/4 cup)
• Chamomile (1/4 cup)
•  80-100 Proof Alcohol (enough to cover the herbs) – I used some dry gin I had on hand!

Method

1. Begin by taking a clean glass jar and adding in 1/4 cup each of dried Hawthorn berries, Linden, Yarrow, and Chamomile. This combination of herbs creates a balanced symphony, each playing its part in the beautiful composition of this tincture.
2. Pour the alcohol into the jar, making sure all the herbs are completely submerged. The alcohol extracts the beneficial compounds from the herbs, creating a potent solution over time.
3. Seal the jar tightly and give it a gentle shake to mix the herbs with the alcohol.
4. Store the jar in a cool, dark place for 4-6 weeks. This is a process of patience and magic as the herbs slowly release their medicinal properties into the alcohol. Don’t forget to label the jar with today’s date and a list of all ingredients!
5. Remember to give the jar a good shake every few days to aid the extraction process.
6. After 4-6 weeks, strain the mixture using a cheesecloth or fine-mesh strainer, ensuring to squeeze out as much liquid as possible. I recommend pouring the tincture into a small dropper jar for ease of use. Your DIY blood pressure tincture is ready!

Dosage, Storage, and Safety

Tinctures are highly concentrated, so a little goes a long way. Start with 5-10 drops under the tongue or in a little water, up to three times a day. However, it’s vital to consult your healthcare provider before incorporating this tincture into your routine, especially if you’re on medication for high blood pressure or other cardiovascular conditions.

Store your tincture in a dark-colored glass bottle in a cool, dark place. Properly stored, it can last for up to 5 years.

Final Thoughts

It’s important to remember that while herbs are powerful allies, maintaining a balanced diet, regular exercise, and stress management are critical in managing blood pressure. Understanding the root causes of high blood pressure is a vital piece of the puzzle in our journey to heart health. While it’s often dubbed as a ‘silent killer’ due to its lack of obvious symptoms, high blood pressure can be largely attributed to a range of identifiable and modifiable factors. Remember, understanding the causes empowers us to take appropriate measures and make healthful choices in our lifestyle. Here’s to a healthier, happier heart!

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