What’s the alternative
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Catherine Eddie, from Grampian Health Foods, says:
Blood pressure (BP) is a measure of the force that the blood applies to the walls of the arteries as it flows through them.
It is expressed as two numbers: a young healthy adult, for example, could expect to have a resting BP of 120/80mmHg (120 over 80 millimetres of mercury).
The top figure, the systolic blood pressure, is a measure of the pressure when your heart muscle is contracting and pumping blood. This is the maximum pressure in your blood system.
The bottom figure, the diastolic blood pressure, is the pressure when your heart rests between beats. This is the minimum pressure in your blood system.
In the UK, high blood pressure, or hypertension, is defined as a consistently increased systolic BP of over 140 and/or a diastolic BP of 85 or over.
Causes vary, but certain lifestyle choices – poor diet, too much alcohol, insufficient exercise and smoking – can all contribute to the problem.
Ultimately, your GP will advise as to whether medication is necessary, and it is important that you work with him or her.
As far as herbal remedies are concerned, Crataegus (or hawthorn) is one of the most widely used herbs for the heart.
Studies show that it can help to lower raised blood pressure, but consult your GP first if already on prescribed heart medication.
A.Vogel’s Crataegus tincture from Bioforce is often a popular choice. Take 15-20 drops in a little water three times a day.
For further advice, ask at Grampian Health Foods.
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