High Blood Pressure (hypertension) is related to heart disorders and liver problems. Usually there are no symptoms in the early stages. Symptoms may appear later and can include headaches, eye problems, dizziness, fainting spells, nosebleeds, irritability, ringing in the ears, flushed complexion, red streaks in the eyes, fatigue, depression, and chronic respiratory problems. Since there are often no symptoms, high blood pressure is sometimes called the silent disease.

High blood pressure may be caused by stress, smoking, clogged arteries, calcium deficiency, fiber deficiency, a high fat diet, insulin resistance, poor sugar metabolism, thyroid imbalance, obesity, lack of exercise, too much salt and red meat in the diet causing raised copper levels, excess alcohol consumption, kidney malfunction, and constipation.

High blood pressure can benefit from a good diet and exercise. Add lots of fiber to the diet and reduce fat intake. Avoid artificial sweeteners and antihistamines. Lots of citrus juice is a must. Wheat germ, oatmeal, flax seed oil, buckwheat, strawberries, and green drinks should be consumed regularly. Eat smaller meals and reduce calories for best results. A small glass of wine every evening can also help.

Chamomile or lemon balm tea at bedtime can lower blood pressure and give restful sleep. Other herbs that help lower blood pressure include heartsease, yarrow, hawthorn, dandelion, linden, and guelder rose. Yarrow and linden are considered heart tonics because they relax the blood vessels and improve blood flow. Hawthorn strengthens the heart muscle and relaxes the blood vessels. Linden relaxes and heals blood vessels especially when combined with hawthorn or gingko biloba. Guelder rose can be combined with hawthorn and valerian to relax the whole vascular system.

Many herbs are good for the circulation. Garlic, onion, cayenne, ginger, and bilberry are the most well known. Aromatherapy can also improve circulation. Use a blend of lavender, marjoram, and ylang-ylang. Avoid rosemary essential oil because it can raise blood pressure.

Diuretic herbs are sometimes used in the treatment of high blood pressure. Uva Ursi, corn silks, and dandelion are will known for helping rid the system of excess fluid. When taking any diuretic, extra vitamin C should be added to the diet. Potassium and mineral supplements may also be needed to maintain proper balance.

Exercise and deep breathing are key factors in reducing high blood pressure. Massage and meditation are also excellent ways to get results. Sometimes using a dry skin brush can stimulate circulation and help lower blood pressure. An old remedy for high blood pressure sounds silly but doesn't hurt to try – pull the middle fingers three times a day for 20 seconds each time.

* Sometimes licorice can cause elevated blood pressure. Garlic may interact with prescription blood thinner medications such as warfarin. Hawthorn can increase the effects of many prescription heart medications. Always consult with a healthcare professional before using any herbal remedy or before adding any mineral supplement to the diet (an imbalance in minerals can cause heart problems to get worse).