High blood pressure (hypertension)

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Alternative medicine

By Mayo Clinic staff

Although diet and exercise are the best tactics to lower your blood pressure, some supplements also may help decrease it. These include:

  • Alpha-linolenic acid (ALA)
  • Blond psyllium
  • Calcium
  • Cocoa
  • Cod-liver oil
  • Coenzyme Q-10
  • Omega-3 fatty acids
  • Garlic

While it's best to incorporate these supplements in your diet as foods, you can also take supplement pills or capsules. Talk to your doctor before adding any of these supplements to your blood pressure treatment. Some supplements can interact with medications, causing harmful side effects.

You can also practice relaxation techniques, such as yoga or deep breathing to help you relax and reduce your stress level. These practices can temporarily reduce your blood pressure.

DS00100

Aug. 7, 2008

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