Melo, Monica T.

BSN II B

Hypertension
Known as high blood pressure is defined as a sustained elevation in mean arterial
pressure.
Etiology/Causes
Hypertension is classified into
Primary hypertension no definite cause, also called idiopathic hypertension
Secondary hypertension is usually the result of some other primary disease leading
to hypertension such us renal disease.
Risk Factors
Family history
People with positive family history of hypertension are twice at risk than those
with no history
It is not known whether a single gene or multiple genes are involved.
Age
Older persons are at greater risk for hypertension than younger persons
The aging processes that increase BP include stiffening peripheral resistance
and decreased renal blood flow.
High Salt Intake
Salt may cause an elevation in blood volume, increase the sensitivity of
cardiovascular or renal mechanisms to adrenergic influences.
Obesity
Risk for hypertension is two times greater among overweight/obese persons
compared to people of normal weight and three times more than that of
underweight persons
Excessive Alcohol Intake
Regular consumption of three or more drinks per day increased risk of
hypertension.
Key Areas for Prevention of Hypertension
Encourage Proper Nutrition : Reduce salt and fat intake
Prevent becoming overweight or obese : Weight reduction through proper
nutrition and exercise
Smoking Cessation : Tobacco use promotes atherosclerosis that may
contribute to hypertension
Identify people with risk factors and encourage regular check-ups for
possible hypertension and modification of risk factors.
Herbal Medicines for Hypertension

Fish Oil / Omega-3 Fatty Acids

Omega-3 fatty acids are essential fatty acids that are found in fish and some plant foods. The
available research in humans suggests that they may help lower blood pressure in people with
high blood pressure. The omega-3 fatty acid DHA may have greater benefits than EPA
(eicosapentaenooic acid).
Studies have generally found that the reduction in blood pressure has been small in order to
achieve clinically relevant effects, higher doses of omega-3 fatty acids may be needed, which
can also cause an increased risk of bleeding in susceptible people including those with bleeding
disorders or taking medications such as warfarin (Coumadin), aspirin, or ginkgo. Further
research is needed. Studies have generally used 2-4 grams of omega-3 fatty acids daily for up
to one year. Find out more about Omega-3

Chocolate / Cocoa Extract

Several studies in humans have found that eating dark chocolate or chocolate or cocoa
products enriched with flavonols may slightly lower blood pressure in people with high blood
pressure or pre-hypertensive people. Consuming 50g cocoa per day is associated with a 2-3mm
Hg reduction in blood pressure. Further research is needed, because not all human studies
have found an effect.
Chocolate may affect the nitric oxide system resulting in vasodilation and lower blood pressure.
It also may inhibit angiotensin-converting enzyme. One thing to keep in mind is that chocolate
also contains caffeine and sugar, among other ingredients. Large amounts of caffeine (greater
than 400mg day) can increase blood pressure and the sugar content may affect blood sugar
levels.

Onions - Onions contain quercetin, an antioxidant flavonol found to prevent heart disease and
stroke. In a research study published in the Journal of Nutrition, subjects with hypertension
experienced a decrease in their blood pressure by 7mmHg systolic and 5 mmHg diastolic as
opposed to those who were taking placeb
Oregano - This herb contains the compound carvacrol which has been proven to be effective
against blood pressure. In a study conducted on animal subjects, by researchers from Eskisehir
Osmangazi University in Turkey, carvacrol was found to reduce heart rate, mean arterial

pressure

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Lemons
Lemons help keep blood vessels soft and pliable and by removing any rigidity, high blood
pressure will be reduced. In addition, you can help lower your chance of heart failure by
consuming lemon juice regularly, due to its vitamin C content. Vitamin C is an antioxidant that
helps neutralize the harmful effects of free radicals.

Banana
Bananas are one fruit that people with high blood pressure can eat regularly to control it.
Bananas are a rich source of potassium, which lessens the effect of sodium.
So, try to eat one or two bananas daily. Along with bananas, you can try dried apricots, raisins,
currants, orange juice, spinach, zucchini, baked sweet potatoes, cantaloupe, and winter squash.

Coconut Water
People with high blood pressure must keep their bodies well hydrated. It is a good idea to drink
eight to 10 glasses of water daily. Coconut water is particularly beneficial for lowering blood
pressure.
A 2005 study published in the West Indian Medical Journal found that coconut water, being rich
in potassium, magnesium and vitamin C can help decrease systolic blood pressure. Along with
coconut water, you can also use coconut oil when cooking.

References:
Public Health Nursing in the Philippines
http://www.naturalnews.com/035689_medicinal_herbs_spices_blood_pressur
e.html#ixzz3RuGCTt6Y
http://altmedicine.about.com/cs/herbsvitaminsek/a/Hypertension.htm
http://www.top10homeremedies.com/home-remedies/home-remedies-forhigh-blood-pressure.html