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Lower Blood Pressure with Cinnamon: 10 Herbs That May Help

Can herbs and spices help lower high blood pressure? Discover 10 natural options that may be effective, including basil, parsley, celery seed, and more.

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Basil: A Potential Blood Pressure Lowering Herb

Basil (Ocimum basilicum) is a flavorful herb with various forms. It’s popular in alternative medicine due to its rich array of powerful compounds. Sweet basil, in particular, is high in eugenol, a plant-based antioxidant linked to numerous health benefits, including reduced blood pressure. Studies suggest eugenol may help lower blood pressure by acting as a natural calcium channel blocker, which can relax blood vessels. Animal research has shown that sweet basil extracts can help relax blood vessels and thin the blood, leading to lower blood pressure. However, more human studies are needed to confirm basil’s effects on hypertension.

Parsley: An Herb Packed with Blood Pressure-Lowering Nutrients

Parsley (Petroselinum crispum) is a popular herb in many cuisines. It’s native to the Mediterranean and has an impressive nutritional profile. Parsley contains compounds like vitamin C and dietary carotenoids that may help reduce blood pressure. Animal studies have found parsley can lower both systolic and diastolic blood pressure by acting as a natural calcium channel blocker, similar to how some hypertension medications work. While these results are promising, more human research is needed to better understand parsley’s effects on blood pressure.

Celery Seeds: A Fiber-Rich Spice with Potential Blood Pressure Benefits

Celery seeds (Apium graveolens) are a versatile spice packed with nutrients like iron, magnesium, manganese, calcium, and fiber. Some research suggests celery seed extract may help lower blood pressure, particularly in those with preexisting hypertension. Researchers believe compounds in celery seed may act as a natural calcium channel blocker to help relax blood vessels. Additionally, celery seed’s fiber content has been linked to lower blood pressure. However, more human studies are needed to confirm these potential blood pressure-lowering effects.

Chinese Cat’s Claw: An Herb with Traditional Blood Pressure Uses

People have long used Chinese cat’s claw (Uncaria rhynchophylla) in traditional Chinese medicine to treat various conditions, including high blood pressure. Also known as Gou-Teng or Chotoko, this herb has a different origin and chemical composition than the more commonly known cat’s claw (Uncaria tomentosa). While some studies suggest Chinese cat’s claw may help lower blood pressure, more research is needed to understand its efficacy and mechanisms of action.

Cinnamon: A Spice with Potential Blood Pressure-Lowering Properties

Cinnamon is a popular spice that may offer blood pressure-lowering benefits. Several studies have found that cinnamon supplementation can significantly reduce both systolic and diastolic blood pressure, especially in individuals with prediabetes or type 2 diabetes. Researchers believe cinnamon’s antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, as well as its ability to improve insulin sensitivity, may contribute to its blood pressure-lowering effects. However, more research is needed to determine the optimal dosage and long-term effects of cinnamon for managing hypertension.

Garlic: A Versatile Herb with Cardiovascular Benefits

Garlic (Allium sativum) is a well-known herb with a long history of use in traditional medicine for its potential health benefits, including its effect on blood pressure. Multiple studies have shown that garlic supplementation can moderately reduce both systolic and diastolic blood pressure, especially in individuals with hypertension. Garlic’s antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and vasodilatory properties are thought to be the mechanisms behind its blood pressure-lowering effects. Incorporating garlic into your diet may be a simple way to support healthy blood pressure levels.

Other Herbs and Spices That May Help Lower Blood Pressure

In addition to the herbs and spices mentioned above, several other natural options have shown promise in helping to lower high blood pressure:

  • Hibiscus: Hibiscus tea has been found in multiple studies to have a mild blood pressure-lowering effect, potentially due to its antioxidant and diuretic properties.
  • Ginger: Ginger contains compounds like gingerol that may help relax blood vessels and improve circulation, leading to lower blood pressure.
  • Turmeric: The active compound in turmeric, curcumin, has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that may contribute to its potential blood pressure-lowering benefits.
  • Rosemary: Rosemary contains rosmarinic acid and other compounds that may help dilate blood vessels and reduce blood pressure.

While these herbs and spices show promise, more human research is needed to confirm their efficacy and optimal dosages for managing hypertension. As always, it’s important to consult with a healthcare professional before incorporating any new supplements or herbal remedies into your routine, especially if you are currently taking blood pressure medications.

The Bottom Line

High blood pressure is a common and serious health condition, but it can often be managed through a combination of medications, dietary changes, and lifestyle modifications. Research suggests that certain herbs and spices, such as basil, parsley, celery seeds, Chinese cat’s claw, cinnamon, and garlic, may offer natural ways to help lower blood pressure. While the evidence is promising, more human studies are needed to fully understand the optimal use of these natural remedies for managing hypertension. As always, it’s important to work closely with your healthcare provider when considering any changes to your blood pressure management plan.

10 Herbs That May Help Lower High Blood Pressure

Managing high blood pressure usually requires a mix of medications and a healthy diet. Certain natural ways to lower blood pressure, such as eating garlic, basil and other herbs, may also work.

High blood pressure, also called hypertension, affects nearly half of all American adults (1).

It’s the most common preventable risk factor for heart disease (2).

This article looks at the scientific research behind 10 herbs and spices that may help lower blood pressure.

High blood pressure is defined as having at least one of the following (2):

  • systolic blood pressure (the top number) over 130 mm Hg
  • diastolic blood pressure (the bottom number) over 80 mm Hg
  • both systolic and diastolic values above these levels

You can manage blood pressure with medications, such as angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors and calcium channel blockers.

Many dietary and lifestyle changes can also reduce your blood pressure and lower your risk of heart disease.

In fact, studies have shown that some herbs and spices may reduce blood pressure levels, so you may want to consider adding these to your diet, too.

Make sure to speak with your healthcare provider before using any of the following herbs.

Below are 10 herbs that may help lower blood pressure.

Summary

You can manage high blood pressure with medication, as well as dietary and lifestyle changes. Some herbs and spices may likewise help lower blood pressure.

Basil (Ocimum basilicum) is a flavorful herb that comes in various forms. It’s popular in alternative medicine because it’s rich in various powerful compounds.

Sweet basil is high in eugenol. Research has linked this plant-based antioxidant to many health benefits, including lowered blood pressure (3).

Studies suggest that eugenol may help reduce blood pressure by acting as a natural calcium channel blocker.

Calcium channel blockers prevent the movement of calcium into the heart and arterial cells, allowing the blood vessels to relax (4).

Animal studies have shown that sweet basil extracts helped relax blood vessels and thin the blood, which in turn helped reduce blood pressure (5, 6, 7).

However, scientists need to do more research to investigate whether basil helps lower blood pressure in humans.

Summary

Basil contains compounds, such as eugenol, that may help reduce blood pressure, according to animal studies. However, more human research is needed.

Parsley (Petroselinum crispum) is a popular herb in American, European, and Middle Eastern cuisine. It’s native to the Mediterranean and has an impressive nutritional profile.

Parsley contains a variety of compounds, such as vitamin C and dietary carotenoids, that may reduce blood pressure (8).

Several studies have shown that carotenoid antioxidants reduce blood pressure and LDL (bad) cholesterol, a risk factor for heart disease (8).

Animal studies have shown that parsley reduced both systolic and diastolic blood pressure by acting like a calcium channel blocker — a type of medication that helps relax and dilate blood vessels (9).

However, there’s limited human research on parsley and blood pressure. More research in this area is needed to better understand its effects.

Summary

Parsley contains a variety of compounds, such as vitamin C and dietary carotenoids, that may help lower blood pressure. However, more human research is needed to confirm these effects.

Celery seeds (Apium graveolens) are a versatile spice that’s packed with various nutrients, such as iron, magnesium, manganese, calcium, and fiber.

Interestingly, some research suggests celery seeds may help lower blood pressure.

One study in rats examined the effects of celery seed extract on blood pressure.

The study found that celery seed extract lowered blood pressure in rats with preexisting high blood pressure — but not in rats that had normal blood pressure (10).

Researchers have suggested that compounds in celery seed extract may help lower blood pressure by acting as a natural calcium channel blocker.

In addition, celery seed is a good source of dietary fiber, which has been linked to lower blood pressure (11, 12).

That said, there are only a few studies on celery seeds and blood pressure. Scientists need to conduct more human research in this area.

Summary

Animal research suggests celery seeds may reduce blood pressure. This herb may be effective thanks to its fiber and action as a natural calcium channel blocker. More studies are needed.

People have long used Chinese cat’s claw in traditional Chinese medicine to treat a variety of ailments, including high blood pressure (13).

Its scientific name is Uncaria rhynchophylla, and it’s also called Gou-Teng or Chotoko.

However, do not confuse it with cat’s claw (Uncaria tomentosa). Despite its similar name and appearance, this plant has a different origin and different chemical properties.

Chinese cat’s claw contains several compounds, such as hirsutine and rhynchophylline. Animal studies have shown these may reduce blood pressure by acting as natural calcium channel blockers.

In addition, these compounds may stimulate blood vessels to produce nitric oxide, which is a chemical compound that helps blood vessels relax and dilate (4, 14, 15).

Animal studies support these effects, showing that taking Chinese cat’s claw extract or its compounds reduce blood pressure and aid blood flow. However, human studies are still limited in this area (13, 16).

You can purchase Chinese cat’s claw at select health food stores or online.

Summary

Chinese cat’s claw contains compounds that may act as natural calcium channel blockers and help blood vessels relax, according to animal studies. More human studies are needed.

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Bacopa monnieri is an herb that grows in marshy areas in South Asia. Practitioners of Ayurvedic medicine use it to treat various ailments, including anxiety, memory issues, and high blood pressure (17).

In animal studies, Bacopa monnieri helped lower both systolic and diastolic blood pressure levels by stimulating blood vessels to release nitric oxide (18, 19).

A 12-week human study in 54 healthy adults looked at the effects of Bacopa monnieri on memory, anxiety, depression, and blood pressure.

While the herb improved most mental aspects, it did not affect blood pressure (20).

Although the findings from animal studies are promising, bacopa monnieris effects on blood pressure in humans are still unclear. Scientists need to do more research on this herb’s effects.

You can buy Bacopa monnieri from health food stores and online. It’s available in several forms, including powder and capsules.

Summary

Animal research suggests the herb Bacopa monnieri may help blood vessels dilate and relax, lowering blood pressure. However, human research is conflicting and limited.

Garlic is rich in many compounds that may benefit your heart.

In particular, garlic contains sulfur compounds, such as allicin, which may help increase blood flow and relax the blood vessels. Collectively, these factors may help lower blood pressure (21, 22).

A review of 12 studies in over 550 people with high blood pressure found that taking garlic reduced systolic and diastolic blood pressure by an average of 8.3 mm Hg and 5.5 mm Hg, respectively.

This reduction was similar to the effects of blood pressure medications (23).

A 24-week study in 30 people found that 600–1,500 mg of garlic extract was just as effective at lowering blood pressure as the drug Atenolol (24).

Summary

Garlic contains compounds, such as allicin, that have been shown to help relax blood vessels and aid blood flow. Collectively, these factors may help reduce blood pressure.

Thyme is a flavorful herb packed with numerous healthy compounds.

Rosmarinic acid is one such compound. Research has linked it to many benefits, such as reduced inflammation and blood sugar levels, as well as increased blood flow. It may also help reduce blood pressure (25, 26).

Animal studies have shown that taking rosmarinic acid helped significantly reduce systolic blood pressure by inhibiting angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) (27, 28).

ACE is a molecule that narrows blood vessels and raises blood pressure. Thus, inhibiting it may lower blood pressure.

Other animal studies have shown that taking thyme extract reduced heart disease risk factors, such as total cholesterol, LDL (bad) cholesterol, triglycerides, and blood pressure (29, 30).

That said, there’s limited human research on thyme and blood pressure. Scientists need to do more research to investigate these effects in humans.

Summary

Thyme contains powerful compounds, such as rosmarinic acid, that appear to help relax blood vessels in animal studies. However, researchers need to do more studies in humans.

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Cinnamon is an aromatic spice that comes from the inner bark of trees from the Cinnamomum genus.

People have used it for centuries in traditional medicine to treat heart conditions, including high blood pressure.

While it’s not fully understood how cinnamon lowers blood pressure, animal research suggests it can help dilate and relax the blood vessels (31).

A review of 9 studies including 641 participants showed that taking cinnamon reduced systolic and diastolic blood pressure by an average of 6.2 mm Hg and 3.9 mm Hg, respectively.

This effect was stronger when people took cinnamon consistently over 12 weeks (32).

Moreover, a review of 3 studies including 139 participants with type 2 diabetes looked at the effects of taking cinnamon.

Those who took 500–2,400 mg of cinnamon daily over 12 weeks experienced an average reduction of 5.39 mm Hg in systolic blood pressure and 2.6 mm Hg in diastolic blood pressure (33).

Cinnamon is easy to incorporate into meals. Concentrated cinnamon supplements are another option.

Summary

Cinnamon appears to help dilate and relax the blood vessels, which may help lower blood pressure.

Ginger is incredibly versatile and a staple in alternative medicine.

People have used it for centuries to improve many aspects of heart health, including circulation, cholesterol levels, and blood pressure (34).

Both human and animal studies have shown that taking ginger reduces blood pressure in several ways. It acts as a natural calcium channel blocker and natural ACE inhibitor (35, 36).

Calcium channel blockers and ACE inhibitors are types of blood pressure medication.

A study in more than 4,000 people found that those who consumed the most ginger — 2–4 grams per day — had the lowest risk of developing high blood pressure (37).

Ginger is delicious and easy to incorporate into your diet with meals. Alternatively, you can purchase ginger supplements online. These are more concentrated.

Summary

Ginger appears to lower blood pressure by acting as a natural calcium channel blocker and dilating the blood vessels.

Cardamom is a delicious spice with a slightly sweet, intense flavor. It’s packed with various antioxidants that may help lower blood pressure.

A 12-week study in 20 adults that were newly diagnosed with high blood pressure found that taking 3 grams of cardamom powder daily significantly reduced blood pressure, lowering it close to the normal range (38).

Test-tube and animal studies suggest cardamom may help reduce blood pressure by acting as a natural calcium channel blocker and diuretic (39).

A diuretic is a compound that helps remove water buildup through urination.

While these findings are promising, research in this area is still quite new. Therefore, scientists need to conduct additional studies to further investigate cardamom’s effects in humans.

Cardamom is simple to incorporate into your cooking or baking. Alternatively, you could take a cardamom supplement or extract under the guidance of your healthcare provider.

Summary

Animal and human research suggest cardamom may help lower blood pressure by acting as a natural calcium channel blocker and diuretic. Still, more human studies are needed.

High blood pressure is the most common, preventable risk factor for heart disease. It affects nearly half of all American adults.

The best way to manage high blood pressure is through a combination of the right medications, a healthy diet, regular exercise, and engaging in healthy lifestyle behaviors.

That said, there are several promising herbs and spices you can incorporate into your diet that may help lower your blood pressure.

They include basil, parsley, celery seeds, Chinese cat’s claw, Bacopa monnieri, garlic, thyme, cinnamon, ginger, and cardamom, to name a few.

Keep in mind that many herbs and spices may interact with common blood thinner medications, and many extracts and supplements discussed above lack sufficient safety research.

For this reason, always consult a healthcare provider about what herbs and spices you’re considering incorporating into your diet, and never discontinue a medication without consulting them first.

Does Cinnamon Lower Blood Pressure?

One of cinnamon’s most intriguing claims is its ability to lower blood pressure. But is there any truth behind this popular belief? And if yes, how does cinnamon lower blood pressure?

Not only does cinnamon add a delicious flavor to your food, but it also comes with potential health benefits. 

This article will examine the science behind cinnamon and its effect on blood pressure. Keep reading to learn more about this sweet spice and how it can control your blood pressure!

What is Cinnamon?

Cinnamon is a spice made from the inner bark of the cinnamon tree, of which there are many species. It is used in both sweet and savory dishes and has a warm, sweet flavor.

Cinnamon has been used for centuries in traditional medicine to treat a variety of ailments. Today, it is thought to have antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial properties. Cinnamon is also believed to boost cognitive function and can regulate blood sugar levels.

 

Types of Cinnamon

There are two main types of cinnamon: Ceylon and cassia.

Ceylon cinnamon, or “true” cinnamon, is native to Sri Lanka. It is lighter in color and has a sweeter, more delicate flavor than cassia cinnamon. Ceylon cinnamon is more expensive than cassia and is often used in baking and desserts.

Cassia cinnamon is the most common type sold in the United States. It is darker in color and has a harsher, more astringent flavor than Ceylon cinnamon.

Cassia cinnamon is less expensive than Ceylon and is often used in savory dishes like curries or stews. Cassia cinnamon also contains high levels of coumarin, a compound that acts as a blood thinner.

While cinnamon is generally considered safe, high coumarin content in cassia may cause some side effects when taken in high amounts.

Ceylon has low levels of coumarin, so it’s often considered the healthy type to consume, especially if you plan on using it regularly.

Does Cinnamon Lower Blood Pressure?

In one double-blind controlled trial, patients with type 1 hypertension or high blood pressure taking 1500 mg of cinnamon daily significantly improved their blood pressure levels and lipid profiles after 90 days of use. This clearly shows that cinnamon can indeed lower blood pressure, but how? 

1. Cinnamon can lower blood pressure by acting as an ACE inhibitor.

Angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) Inhibitors are a common class of medications used to treat heart failure and high blood pressure.

They work by inhibiting the production of angiotensin II in the body. Angiotensin II is a hormone that circulates in the blood and whose main function is to construct blood vessels, leading to high blood pressure.

As an ACE inhibitor, cinnamon can help relieve tension on the blood vessel wall, which promotes relaxation, causing the blood pressure to fall.

In one study, information on the use of various traditional plants, including garlic, cinnamon, jasmine, caltrop, bilberry, and grape, to lower blood pressure was collected from various sources and databases.

The research confirmed the effects of these plants in inhibiting angiotensin II production, making them potent remedies for high blood pressure.  

The researchers, however, suggested that more clinical trials are needed to help determine the exact dosages, side effects, and drug interactions.

2. Cinnamon lowers blood pressure by preventing inflammation

Inflammation is a reaction triggered by the immune system when fighting off invaders such as viruses or bacteria.

While this is beneficial, too much activation of immune responses can cause cell damage leading to various diseases, including heart disease, high blood pressure, type 2 diabetes, and even cancer.

Chronic inflammation causes blood pressure by damaging the lining of the arteries. This damage leads to cholesterol deposits on the walls in an attempt to repair the damage.

However, with continued inflammation, arterial damage, and cholesterol deposition, a buildup will form, narrowing the arteries.

This makes it difficult for the blood to flow, causing the heart to increase its pumping pressure.

Cinnamon can fight inflammation, which can help improve blood vessel function, thus lowering blood pressure.

One study found that cinnamon could significantly reduce inflammatory markers in the blood, such as C reactive protein, and reduce overall oxidative stress in the body.

3. Cinnamon can break down cholesterol in arteries to improve circulation

Cholesterol is a waxy substance found in the blood. It’s classified into good cholesterol (HDL) and bad cholesterol (LDL).

While both forms have roles to play, too much LDL can cause various health issues, including increasing blood pressure levels.

This is because, as mentioned above, LDL can build up within the arteries causing them to become narrow and making it difficult for the blood to flow.

Cinnamon can, however, promote the breakdown of this cholesterol, creating more room within your blood vessels for the blood to flow freely.

In one study, daily consumption of 500mg of cinnamon water extract for two months reduced LDL cholesterol and improved insulin sensitivity in people with elevated blood sugar levels.

In a systemic review of 35 clinical trials, supplementing 

with about ¾ teaspoon of cinnamon daily reduced LDL cholesterol, total cholesterol, triglycerides, and blood sugar levels in people with metabolic disorders.

4. Cinnamon can act as a diuretic

A diuretic is any substance that promotes diuresis or increased urine production. It does this by promoting the elimination of water and sodium from the body, both of which can increase your blood pressure levels.

Cinnamon contains mild diuretic effects and can thus help eliminate water and salt from circulation by causing you to urinate a little more than usual. This will ultimately lead to reduced blood pressure.

5. Cinnamon is rich in antioxidants

Antioxidants are compounds that occur naturally in plants and are important in preventing damage from free radicals.

Free radicals are unstable molecules in the body that, when left to accumulate, can damage various body cells, including those lining your blood vessels leading to changes in blood pressure.

Cinnamon is very rich in polyphenol antioxidants, which is also the reason behind the various cinnamon benefits.

6. Cinnamon can improve blood sugar levels by increasing insulin sensitivity

Too much sugar in the blood can irritate your blood vessel lining, leading to inflammation and vasoconstriction, thus causing blood pressure to rise. This is especially common in people with diabetes whose blood sugar levels are poorly controlled.

Cinnamon works by improving insulin sensitivity. Insulin is a hormone that helps carry sugar from the blood into the cells for energy.

In the case of conditions like type 2 diabetes or insulin resistance, the cells are resistant to insulin, meaning the glucose can’t get in. This causes an accumulation of glucose in the blood, leading to numerous potential health issues.

Cinnamon can imitate the insulin effect and increase glucose movement from the blood into the cells. This improves blood sugar control, which then prevents the complications associated with it.

In a study, consuming 250mg of cinnamon twice daily improved insulin sensitivity in people with high blood sugar levels.

Another study involving 80 people with PCOS (polycystic ovary syndrome) found that a daily intake of 1.5 mg of cinnamon powder for 12 weeks improved insulin sensitivity than the placebo group.

7. Cinnamon can lower your stress levels 

When we experience stress, our bodies go into fight-or-flight mode. This causes our heart rate and blood pressure to increase, giving us more energy to deal with the perceived threat.

While this response is helpful in the short term, it can be harmful if we’re constantly under stress, as it can lead to high blood pressure.

Cinnamon has traditionally been used as a natural remedy for various ailments, including stress. Studies have shown that cinnamon can help lower stress levels by reducing the production of cortisol, the stress hormone.

In addition, cinnamon has anti-inflammatory properties, which can help to reduce the physical symptoms of stress.

How to Use Cinnamon to Lower Blood Pressure:

1. Add cinnamon to your diet

Adding cinnamon to your diet is one of the simplest ways to use it to lower blood pressure. You can add it to foods such as oatmeal, yogurt, or smoothies or sprinkle it on top of baked goods or breakfast cereals.

2. Take cinnamon supplements 

Cinnamon supplements are another easy way to get the benefits of this spice. Look for supplements that contain at least 1 gram of cinnamon per day.

3. Make tea with cinnamon

To make cinnamon tea, add 1 teaspoon of ground Ceylon cinnamon to a cup of boiling water and let it steep for 10 minutes. Drink 1-2 cups per day for best results.

4. Use essential oils

Essential oils are another great way to get the benefits of cinnamon. Add a few drops of cinnamon oil to a diffuser and inhale the fumes. You can also add a few drops of oil to a bathtub filled with warm water and enjoy a relaxing soak.

How Much Cinnamon Should You Use?

When it comes to the amount of cinnamon you need to bring down blood pressure, there’s no recommended amount; however, in research, dosages of 500 mg and 1500mg have often been used. Therefore, you can go with any amount along that line and be good to go.

When taking your supplement, though, always choose Ceylon, as it contains less coumarin and thus has fewer side effects.

Possible Cinnamon Side Effects:

1. It may cause liver damage

Too much cassia cinnamon can damage the liver due to its high coumarin content. A teaspoon of cassia contains 7 to 18 mg of coumarin, while Ceylon cinnamon only contains a trace.

Keep in mind that the recommended daily intake of coumarin is about 0.1 mg/kg body weight per day or 5 mg per day for someone weighing 59 kg. This means even a teaspoon will provide more than required.

If you need to take cinnamon more often, especially if you’re taking it to treat a certain condition, always go for Ceylon cinnamon. Please read the labels, as they always indicate whether the cinnamon is Ceylon or cassia.

2. Drug interactions

The fact that cinnamon can act as an ACE inhibitor means it can interfere with the effects of the medications used to perform the same job.

If used together, it may cause your blood pressure to drop too low, which can be life-threatening if not controlled.

If you’re going to use cinnamon along with your blood pressure medications, it’s always important to talk to your doctor to get the best guidance. Also, ensure that you’re closely monitoring your blood pressure.

3. It may increase the risk of cancer.

Too much coumarin can cause DNA damage which can increase the risk of developing cancer. One study found that coumarin could cause various cancerous tumors, including liver, lung, and kidney cancer.
However, more research in humans is needed to confirm this side effect.

4. Allergic reaction

Cinnamon contains cinnamaldehyde, a compound that can trigger allergic reactions in individuals allergic to it.

Cinnamaldehyde allergy may present with mouth sores, tongue or gum swelling, white patches in the mouth, and a burning and itching sensation.

5. It may cause your blood sugar to drop too low

While cinnamon is a natural remedy for insulin resistance, too much of it, especially if on glucose-lowering medications, can cause your blood sugar levels to drop too low.

Again, consult your doctor if you’re going to e using cinnamon alongside your medications, and ensure you monitor your glucose levels closely.

Final Thoughts

Cinnamon is a medicinal spice that offers numerous health benefits, including fighting inflammation and providing antioxidant benefits.

Can cinnamon lower blood pressure? Yes, cinnamon can lower blood pressure in various ways, including fighting inflammation, providing antioxidant protection, lowering cholesterol, reducing stress levels, and getting rid of excess water and sodium from the body.

There are various types of cinnamon, but cassia or regular cinnamon and Ceylon are the major ones.

Ceylon, or true cinnamon, is the best to consume due to its low levels of coumarin, which has been shown to cause various side effects.

On the other hand, cassia is very high in coumarin; if taken in excess, it can cause liver damage and even increase the risk of cancer, among other issues.

You can easily include cinnamon in your diet by adding it to food, making cinnamon tea, or taking it as a supplement.

Related Articles:

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  • 12 Best Natural Drinks to Lower Blood Pressure

  • Top 5 Edible Flowers and Their Health Benefits

  • Best Fruits for Lowering Cholesterol 

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7 spices to lower blood pressure

05/18/2019 [12:22]

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A

Baku, May 18, AZERTAC

Foods included in the human diet have a significant impact on blood pressure. AZERTAC, with reference to Medikforum, talks about spices that can lead to a decrease in these indicators.

Garlic. It contains allicin, which has antibacterial and antihypertensive properties, thanks to which garlic effectively reduces blood pressure by relaxing and dilating blood vessels.

Cardamom. Researchers have found that daily consumption of cardamom significantly lowers blood pressure. This spice is an antioxidant and is also considered a powerful diuretic.

Cinnamon. A study found that eating cinnamon reduced systolic blood pressure by approximately 5.39 mmHg and diastolic blood pressure by 2.6. Add this spice to cereals and other dishes.

Turmeric. Contains an antioxidant called curcumin, which is effective in reducing blood pressure due to its anti-inflammatory properties. Inflammation leads to arterial stiffness and increased pressure.

Ginger . A study has shown that ginger helps lower blood pressure by blocking calcium channels. Ginger is also effective in reducing muscle contracture, which is also beneficial for hypertension. Finally, it prevents the accumulation of blood clots in the arteries.

Cayenne pepper . Also known as red pepper, this product contains the ingredient capsaicin. It acts on sensory nerves that work with the neurohormonal system to lower blood pressure.

Black pepper. Rich in potassium, which helps control heart rate and regulate blood pressure. In addition, black pepper contains iron, which helps fight hypertension.

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26.06.2023 [15:29]

AzerGold CJSC held a regular meeting with residents of Tyulallar village of Goygol region

26.06.2023 [14:15]

® Veyseloglu group of companies presented holiday gifts to more than 170 families

25.06.2023 [19:15]

Participants of photojournalism courses organized in AZERTAC received certificates

25.06.2023 [19:01]

Family members of martyrs and war veterans visited the Heydar Aliyev Center

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a spice that reduces blood pressure – Useful articles – tsn.ua high blood pressure

Cinnamon is not only a spice that improves food and drink, but also an effective remedy for various diseases such as high blood pressure.

Cinnamon contains a large amount of oils, various microelements, vitamins, tannins, antioxidants, phenanthrene, wood resins, which have a positive effect on the body.

Thanks to the active component of cinnamon, namely cinnamate, the formation of low-density cholesterol in the blood is reduced, which is the cause of many vascular diseases. By lowering harmful lipids, the body begins to produce more useful ones.

Cinnamon helps to reduce the risk of complications of arterial hypertension, reduces headaches, discomfort behind the sternum and, which is very important for hypertensive patients, reduces swelling as a result of salt excretion.

The spice helps hypertensive patients in the fight against chronic stress, reduces nervousness and increases resistance to physical stress.

As a result of regular consumption of spices, the tone of vascular smooth muscles increases, the inner diameter of arterioles expands, and metabolic reactions are accelerated. Therefore, cinnamon reduces the risk of atherosclerosis of the brain, prevents the formation of blood clots in the arteries.

By improving insulin sensitivity and lowering blood sugar, cinnamon helps control diabetes.

How cinnamon works for low blood pressure

If you have low blood pressure, you can consume cinnamon, but in a minimal amount. A small amount of spice in the morning will encourage and raise vitality. Usually, hypotensive patients experience fatigue, loss of strength and reduced performance, and taking cinnamon will increase the tone of the body and restore strength.

How to take cinnamon for high blood pressure

Before starting high blood pressure treatment with cinnamon, it is recommended that you consult your doctor to identify possible contraindications. When using spices, it is necessary to observe the correct dosage and rules of administration.

  • Experts recommend dividing the daily dose into several doses. To do this, from 1/2 to 1 tsp of cinnamon is diluted in a glass of warm water, milk, etc.