High blood pressure, or hypertension, is a common condition that can increase the risk for heart attack and stroke. In many cases, the problem can be controlled through diet and exercise. Some people, however, may also need to use home remedies, such as essential oils. Inhaling the aromas of some of these oils can help lower your blood pressure.
Essential oils are natural fragrances extracted from the leaves, roots, and bark of plants. They are highly concentrated and contain a variety of therapeutic properties. Many people use them as a natural alternative to synthetic chemicals in products such as perfumes and cleaning products. The oils can also offer health and wellness benefits, such as reducing stress and promoting relaxation. In fact, one study found that inhaling the scent of certain essential oils can actually help lower your blood pressure.
Typically, the oils are used in an aromatherapy diffuser or diluted in a carrier oil and applied to the skin. The scent can be inhaled or rubbed into the temples and under the nose to help relieve stress and anxiety. They can also be added to a bath or used in a foot soak. Some people even use them in a humidifier to add a pleasant aroma to the air.
Some of the oils that are often used to reduce blood pressure include bergamot, cedarwood, lavender, clary sage, geranium, fennel, and jasmine. They are also said to help ease stress and decrease a pounding headache. Other oils that can be used to promote relaxation include chamomile, ginger, and ylang-ylang. These oils can help relax your muscles and decrease the heart rate, which in turn lowers blood pressure.
Inhaling the scent of these oils can cause a reduction in your systolic blood pressure (the top number on your reading) and diastolic blood pressure (the bottom number). The systolic pressure was reduced by 10.3/4.1 mm Hg in the treatment group, while the diastolic pressure decreased by 7.8/4.6 mm Hg. There was also a decrease in the levels of cortisol, which is a stress hormone that can raise blood pressure.
While the results of this study are promising, more research is needed to confirm the effects of essential oils on blood pressure. This is especially true since the participants were given a necklace with a real essential oil blend to inhale, and not a placebo. Also, the screening office BP measured at the time of participant recruitment was higher than the home BP measurements taken to identify a long-term effect.
It is important to note that this method of treating high blood pressure should not be a replacement for a healthy diet, regular exercise, and medication if necessary. Inhaling these oils should be a part of an overall plan that includes dietary changes and other relaxation techniques to manage stress levels. Also, people with specific conditions like epilepsy, asthma, or pregnancy should consult a doctor before using these oils to make sure that they will not amplify the symptoms of those conditions.
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