Ingredients- dried herbs:
Hawthorne Berries ……………………………….. 2 gram
Yarrow …………………………………………… 2grams
Valerian Root……………………………………. 1grams
Materials:
Coffee grinder
Soft water, distilled water or rain water
Metric scale
Infusion mug- glass, earthenware or porcelain.
Method of Preparation and Dosage:
This method of hot infusion will provide a single dose (1 cup) of hot herbal tea. Measure out the required amount of herbs and powder using grinder. Place herbs in the upper portion of your infusion mug. Pour one cup (250ml) of boiling water into the mug and allow the herbs to steep covered for at least 10- 15 minutes. Drink warm. Organic honey may be added to sweeten. The infusion should be taken 3 times per day, six days per week for a period of approximately one month. Discontinue use for a few days before resuming therapy.
The choice of these herbs is based on the supposition that hypertension, a blood pressure of 140/90 mm/Hg or higher, is caused by stress, an unhealthy cholesterol level and concurrent arteriosclerosis. This blend will address these conditions and also have a diuretic effect, reducing blood volume and thereby lowering blood pressure.
Hot infusion is the method of choice, because these herbs release their therapeutic properties readily when prepared in this fashion. The ease of preparation is also a consideration, as well as the fact that sipping a hot cup of herbal tea is a soothing anxiety buster.
Hawthorne berries were chosen primarily because of their, remarkable ability to lower serum cholesterol. A 2 gram dose per day has been shown to reduce cholesterol by 10-18% over a two month period. The flavonoids in hawthorn berries also lower blood pressure by dilating the peripheral and coronary arteries, while their procyanidines slow the heart beat. The diuretic action of this herb combats fluid retention, further enhancing its blood pressure lowering ability. As a heart tonic, hawthorn berries have the added advantage of providing nutrition and support for cardiac activity.
Yarrow serves a supportive role in this formula .The flavonoids in this diaphoretic herb not only act as peripheral vasodilators but also dispel blood clots. The hypotensive effect of yarrow is also due to the action of cyanidin on the vagus nerve, slowing cardiac contractions. An efficient diuretic, it aids in the removal of excess fluid.
Valerian root, the final component in this tea, addresses the anxiety aspect of hypertension. The valepotriates contained in valerian act to moderate the autonomous nervous system. This property gives valerian root its celebrated calming effect so very important to blood pressure control. This sedative and heart tonic, unlike many other roots, is properly prepared by hot infusion, making it ideally suited for our tonic.
Herbal remedies can be very effective and safe when used knowledgeably. Yarrow is contraindicated in pregnancy and also may cause sensitivity to sunlight. Large doses or prolonged used of valerian may cause headache, muscle spasm or palpitations. There are no specific cautions for hawthorn, however, consult a qualified practitioner if there any reactions that are of concern.
This formula is meant as an addendum to a healthy diet low in sodium and rich in vegetables and fruits containing calcium, magnesium, potassium and vitamin C. Garlic and onion, preferably eaten raw, are invaluable in cholesterol/high blood pressure control and should be used liberally in cooking. Moderate exercise, smoking cessation and a stress reduction program provide the final factor in controlling and preventing hypertension.
References
Green, James (2000). The Herbal Medicine Maker’s Handbook.
Berkeley: The Crossing Press.
Mabey, Richard, McIntyre, Michael, Michael, Pamela, Duff, Gail
Stevens, John (1988). The New Age Herbalist. New York:
Simon & Shuster.
Mowrey, PH.D., Daniel B. (1986). The Scientific Validation of
Herbal Medicine. Lincolnwood: Keats Press.
BS Biology/Pre-Med, Medical Technologist, Doctor of Naturopathy Candidate (2010), Lecturer, Reiki Practitioner
