One of the herbs which have many benefits are garlic, including for heart health. When consumed together with antihypertensive medications, garlic can make blood pressure go down easier.
In a study at the University of Adelaide, the blood pressure of patients taking antihypertensive drugs along with the garlic extract is lower down than simply with medication alone. The difference is significant, because up to 10 mmHg.
Most participants in this study have garlic supplements as much as 4 capsules for 12 weeks and some others got a placebo. Types of antihypertensive drugs used vary, including the diuretic group.
"This is the first research that examines the garlic as adjunctive therapy in hypertension-treated but not controlled," said one researcher, as quoted by Karl Ried AOL Health, on Monday (11/22/2010).
Various previous studies have shown the benefits of garlic on heart health. In uncontrolled hypertension, the effects of garlic have also been proven though this was the first examined the effect if used in conjunction with modern medicine.
But the combination of garlic extract with modern medicine still have to consult with your doctor. Some compounds in these herbs can thin the blood, reducing the ability to clot and can interact with certain drug classes.
The researchers also could not recommend the proper dosage to get the most optimal effect. What is clear in this study only used garlic as a supplement and not to replace the antihypertensive drug.
Meanwhile, heart health expert from AOL Health, Dr. Christopher Cannon rate of this study is less applicable. The dose of garlic used according to the fair not for daily consumption.
"To lower blood pressure, the most important step is to reduce salt consumption. Next is exercise and diet, but some people may not be convenient to incorporate garlic into the diet," he said.
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