About 75 million American adults are suffering from high blood pressure or hypertension, which is one in every three people. [1]
It is a common condition that occurs when the long-term force of the blood against your artery walls reaches high-levels. Left untreated, this condition may result in severe health problems such as stroke and heart attack.
Essential oils can be an effective remedy to lower blood pressure that is consistently high. Some of them may work by reducing stress and anxiety, the key triggers of hypertension.
However, there is limited research that proves the effectiveness of essential oils for high blood pressure.
There was a clinical trial to test the efficacy of aromatherapy on hypertension that used a blend of lavender, neroli, marjoram, and ylang-ylang essential oils. [2]
Continue reading to learn about some effective essential oils for high blood pressure, their efficacy and risk factors, plus how to use them.
Some Essential Oils for High Blood Pressure
1. Lavender Essential Oil
Aromatherapy with lavender essential oil is one of the most effective remedies for treating stress and anxiety.
In a 2011 clinical trial, participants who used lavender oil-infused face mask experienced a significant reduction in stress level. [3]
This essential oil has calming effects that can promote relaxation by decreasing serum cortisol and improving blood circulation. [4]
Its sedative properties help you to have an uninterrupted sleep, which is essential for reducing high blood pressure.
2. Marjoram Essential Oil
Marjoram oil is derived from both fried and fresh leaves of Origanum majorana through steam distillation.
This essential oil induces a relaxing, sedative, and calming effect on both your mind and body while relieving anxiety and stress.
A 2012 study shows its efficacy in lowering blood pressure. Marjoram oil may do it by dilating blood vessels. [2]
3. Ylang-Ylang Essential Oil
Ylang-ylang essential oil possesses a harmonizing effect that has been a subject of several research.
According to a scintific report published in the Journal of Exercise Rehabilitation, this therapeutic oil is an effective remedy for treating hypertension, as well as heart problems. [5]
Besides, ylang-ylang essential oil may help reduce cortisol (stress hormone) level, thus lowering the high blood pressure. [2]
4. Neroli Essential Oil
Neroli essential oil originates from the flowers of bitter orange trees through steam distillation. Also known as orange blossom oil, it’s a popular choice in aromatherapy when it comes to reducing stress, anxiety, hypertension, depression, etc.
The limonene content found in this oil has a positive effect on the autonomic nervous system that controls the heartbeat and breathing.
Besides, neroli oil may treat hypertension by reducing cortisol levels. [2]
5. Clary Sage Essential Oil
Clary sage oil is another popular choice to reduce stress and hypertension. Its incredible aroma can calm your mind and reduce the feeling of anxiety.
In a 2013 randomized controlled trial, inhaling clary sage oil significantly reduced blood pressure in women with urinary inconsistence. [6]
This oil can help alleviate stress by inducing a sense of wellbeing when used in aromatherapy.
6. Frankincense Essential Oil
Frankincense essential oil has been used to boost immunity and treat different health issues since ancient times.
This therapeutic oil may also have a positive effect on mood and psychological wellbeing. [7]
Constant stress and anxiety may lead to hypertension. A 2015 animal study shows that frankincense oil had significant anxiolytic effects on Swiss albino mice. [8]
7. Bergamot Essential Oil
If you regularly work in a stress-inducing environment, bergamot oil can be a good choice for you.
Extracted from bergamot, a hybrid fruit of bitter orange and lemon, this essential oil can effective reduce stress and high blood pressure.
Researchers in Taiwan conducted a study on elementary school teachers who worked in a stressful environment. [9]
The results showed a significant reduction in blood pressure and heart rate after inhaling bergamot oil for 10 minutes. [9]
8. Valerian Essential Oil
Valerian essential may help you if you’re constantly stressed out. It contains come active components that help reduce anxiety, stress, and high blood pressure. [10]
The potent anxiolytic effects of this essential oil can work on both animals and human. [11, 12]
Apart from treating hypertension, valerian oil may also soothe insomnia and heart palpitations.
How to Use Essential Oils for Hypertension
Diffuser:
- Take any of the above-mentioned essential oils and pour a few drops in a diffuser.
- Inhale the aroma to soothe anxiety and hypertension.
Massage:
- Dilute a few drops of any essential oil with a carrier oil.
- Gently massage this oil to your neck, wrist, and forehead and enjoy its relaxing effect.
Bath:
- Fill up the bathtub with lukewarm water.
- Add a few drops of any essential oil in it.
- Soak yourself in and relax.
Is It Safe to Use Essential Oils for High Blood Pressure?
Essential oils are usually recognized as safe by the FDA when used as directed. However, a report from the National Cancer Institute states that these therapeutic oils may have few side effects. [13]
To avoid the potential side effects, never ingest essential oils. Always dilute them before any topical application.
Besides, you should always consult a doctor or an aromatherapist before you start using any essential oil as a treatment.
Should You Seek Medical Attention for Hypertension?
High blood pressure can be severe and causes life-threatening diseases if not treated on time. Essential oils may help control your blood pressure, but it’s still a good idea to see a doctor to avoid further complications.
Besides, if you have any of the following symptoms, you need to consult a doctor and start treatment as soon as possible.
- Fatigue
- Nausea
- Excessive Sweating
- Palpitations
- Family history of hypertension
- Problems with your vision
- Irregular heartbeats
- Lightheadedness
- Blood pressure is still high after using essential oils
- High blood pressure when you are pregnant
Final Word
The best way to avoid the complications is to catch high blood pressure early. You should check your blood pressure regularly and keep a log so that you can show it to your doctor.
Although it is believed that essential oils have positive effects on hypertension, you should not rely on them completely as there is not enough clinical evidence.
If you want to use essential oils, consult with your doctor to know if they will complement your conventional treatment.
