According to the American Heart Association, the vast majority of individuals that suffer from high blood pressure have no idea that they have this condition. They are generally unaware that they are in danger of developing serious health problems such as a stroke, heart disease, diabetes and kidney problems. The only way to know definitely that you have a condition, is to have your blood pressure levels regularly monitored. Always go to your doctor or health professional in the first instance, so that they can accurately determine your levels. It is a good idea to buy a reliable blood pressure monitor so that you can check any blood pressure problem that is diagnosed, in your own home. This will greatly assist you in checking any treatment that will assist to reduce blood pressure.

Many health professionals and doctors will check your blood pressure levels whenever you visit them and if there are signs that your levels are increasing, then it is advisable to consider treatments and remedies. Always consult your health professional before undergoing any treatment. However, do not be to quick to take pills, as many of these can have very nasty side effects. Consider other alternatives, such as changes in lifestyle, or a change of diet. You will be surprised at how some of these small changes can have a marked effect on lowering blood pressure.

Celery is an important Chinese herbal medicine and the beneficial aspects of eating it, have been known for some time. Recent research has identified that celery may not only reduce high blood pressure, but may also be a protection factor against cancer and high cholesterol. Celery is actually a member of the carrot family and is native to the Middle East. It is known for its tasty long green storks, however, the leaves and seeds are also edible. The cultivation of celery has been going on for several thousand years and it is well known as a medicinal plant and food flavouring agent. It is now a popular salad vegetable and is widely used in cooking, as well as being a natural treatment to reduce high blood pressure.

Celery has a very distinctive taste and smell and this comes from a chemical known a butyl phthalide, which is one of the compounds that can assist in lowering blood pressure. Any restriction in the size of blood vessels is going to inhibit the flow of blood, which results in increased blood pressure. Stress is probably the leading cause of blood vessel restriction and this occurs when stress hormones are produced. The butyl phthalide in celery acts by reducing the body’s production of these hormones, therefore relaxing the blood vessels. Because of the increased blood flow, there is a lowering of blood pressure.

Celery is also high in Vitamin K, Vitamin C, dietary fibre and Potassium, making it one of natures ‘wonder’ vegetables. Studies have shown that eating just a couple of storks of celery each day has a dramatic effect on reducing high blood pressure. Celery should be eaten raw, but some people find the distinctive flavour too strong, however when added with oranges, apples and carrots in a juicing machine, it makes a lovely morning drink. Soups and stews will be enhanced by the characteristic flavour of celery, which can also be added to many salad dishes. Whilst cooking may reduce some of the beneficial compounds, it is still a worthy addition. Eating celery every day will not only be a great boost towards your healthy diet, but is also a wonderful natural remedy for lowering high blood pressure.