Homeopathic remedies for hypertension
Homeopathic remedies for hypertension involve the use of highly diluted substances aimed at treating high blood pressure. Common remedies studied include Aurum, Baryta carbonica, Lachesis, and hawthorn (Crataegus spp.). Research on the effectiveness of these remedies has yielded mixed results. For instance, a study assessing Baryta carbonica found no significant difference in outcomes compared to a placebo, while another study indicated that individualized homeopathic treatments were ineffective when compared to standard drug therapy. However, hawthorn has demonstrated some efficacy in managing hypertension and can be safely used alongside conventional medications.
While many natural supplements have been proposed for hypertension management, such as garlic and fish oil, their scientific backing is limited. It's crucial to consult healthcare professionals before starting any new supplement, particularly hawthorn. Effective non-homeopathic strategies for managing hypertension include lifestyle changes like reducing salt intake, maintaining a healthy weight, engaging in regular aerobic exercise, and managing stress levels. Traditional homeopathy may offer personalized treatment options, focusing on the individual's specific symptoms and lifestyle factors.
Homeopathic remedies for hypertension
DEFINITION: The use of highly diluted remedies to treat high blood pressure.
- STUDIED HOMEOPATHIC REMEDIES: Aurum, Baryta carbonica, Lachesis, hawthorn (Crataegus spp.)
Scientific Evaluations of Homeopathic Remedies
Researchers have completed studies of homeopathic remedies for treating hypertension. In one example, a four-week, double-blind, placebo-controlled study enrolling thirty-two participants evaluated the possible efficacy of Baryta carbonica 15c (centesimals) in treating hypertension. This study found no statistically significant difference between the treatment and control groups.
A small, double-blind, crossover study enrolled ten people with essential hypertension and compared individualized homeopathic treatment to standard drug therapy. These participants were examined every week for sixteen weeks. Homeopathic treatment proved ineffective.
In a review of studies from the first two decades of the twenty-first century, hawthorn (Crataegus spp.) was shown to have some efficiency in treating hypertension. It can be taken with most hypertension medication and is available in capsules, liquid and solid extracts, tinctures, and as a tea. Medical advice should be sought before beginning a hawthorn supplement.
Many other supplements that lack scientific support have been proposed, including basil, parsley, coenzyme Q10, fish oil, garlic, vitamin C, and L‐arginine.
Since the effectiveness of homeopathic supplements has, for the most part, not been scientifically established, the need persists for the reduction of stress or hypertension. Untreated hypertension can have serious health effects. These include kidney or endocrine issues, sleep apnea, heavy alcohol use, or other forms of self-medication. Other mitigating factors also increase this risk. Examples are being overweight, having a family history of this condition, and being a member of certain demographic groups. Several behavioral changes are also beneficial in managing hypertension. Limiting alcohol, drugs, and smoking and eating a diet low in salt, cholesterol, and processed foods but high in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains provides a foundation for a healthy body with normal blood pressure. Maintaining a healthy weight by staying active and limiting stress reduces the risk of hypertension.
Traditional Homeopathic Treatments
Classical homeopathy offers possible homeopathic treatments for hypertension. These therapies are chosen based on various specific details of the person seeking the treatment. Baryta carbonica is traditionally used for people with hypertension who are extremely shy, lack concentration, and often display immature behavior. The symptom picture of this remedy includes high blood pressure that is made worse by exertion or by lying on the left side, along with a tendency toward gripping pains in the stomach that improve when one lies on one’s stomach.
Aurum is often recommended for people whose high blood pressure is caused by slow-burning, long-term stress, which is often associated with work-related pressures. Lachesis may be used for a person with high blood pressure who has a flushed look to the face, whose behavior is overactive, and who has a tendency to engage in compulsive talking as if an inner boiler were always about to explode.
Despite the lack of empirical data showing the efficacy of homeopathic supplements, there are natural measures a person can take to reduce hypertension and blood pressure. Foremost is a consistent regimen of aerobic exercise. Other positive steps can come from a reduction of dietary sodium, curtailing alcohol consumption, weight loss, and enhanced sleep. Efforts to relax and reduce or avoid daily stressors can also benefit in this regard.
Bibliography
Bignamini, M., et al. “Controlled Double Blind Trial with Baryta carbonica 15CH versus Placebo in a Group of Hypertensive Subjects Confined to Bed in Old People’s Home.” British Homeopathic Journal, vol. 76, 1987, pp. 114-19.
Cloud, Alexa, et al. “The Effect of Hawthorn (Crataegus Spp.) on Blood Pressure: A Systematic Review.” Advances in Integrative Medicine, vol. 7, no. 3, 2020, pp. 167–75, doi.org/10.1016/j.aimed.2019.09.002. Accessed 20 Dec. 2024.
Grandmaison, Jace. "Unlocking the Healing Power of Homeopathy: A Gentle Approach to Managing High Blood Pressure." Renewal Wellness Centre, 1 Feb. 2024, renewal.clinic/blog/unlocking-the-healing-power-of-homeopathy-a-gentle-approach-to-managing-high-blood-pressure. Accessed 20 Dec. 2024.
"High Blood Pressure.” Mount Sinai Ichan School of Medicine, www.mountsinai.org/health-library/condition/high-blood-pressure. Accessed 20 Dec. 2024.
Loizzo, M. R., et al. “Hypotensive Natural Products: Current Status.” Mini Reviews in Medicinal Chemistry, vol. 8, 2008, pp. 828-55.
"Six Natural Ways to Lower Your Blood Pressure.” Cleveland Clinic, 22 Nov. 2022, health.clevelandclinic.org/6-natural-ways-to-lower-blood-pressure. Accessed 22 Dec. 2023.
"Ten Ways to Control High Blood Pressure without Medication.” Mayo Clinic, 23 July 2024, www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/high-blood-pressure/in-depth/high-blood-pressure/art-20046974. Accessed 20 Dec. 2024.
Tirapelli, C. R., et al. “Hypotensive Action of Naturally Occurring Diterpenes: A Therapeutic Promise for the Treatment of Hypertension.” Fitoterapia, vol. 881, no. 7, 2010, pp. 690-702, doi:10.1016/j.fitote.2010.05.018. Accessed 20 Dec. 2024.