Hibiscus is high in antioxidants and offers many potential benefits. In particular, it may help promote weight loss, reduce the growth of bacteria and cancer cells, and support the health of the heart and liver.

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Attention tea lovers: not only is tea soothing, comforting, and delicious, but certain varieties may also help regulate blood pressure. Although high blood pressure is a serious health concern that affects millions of people worldwide, natural options may positively affect cardiovascular health. Since high blood pressure is a major risk factor for heart disease and stroke, taking action to regulate blood pressure is key for optimal, long-term health.

Should You Drink Tea To Lower Blood Pressure?

When you drink heart-healthy teas, such as chamomile or hibiscus, that is just one step towards a more holistic approach to managing blood pressure. According to research from 2019, active components in certain teas may relax blood vessels. Not only does this help improve how arteries function, but it also works to reduce inflammation and regulate certain processes that affect blood pressure. Continue reading to learn which teas may help you manage high blood pressure. Please note that the effects may vary from person to person, and whether or not the person eats a balanced diet and exercises regularly.

Hibiscus Tea

First on the list is hibiscus tea, which some people call sour tea or roselle. One study found that consuming three cups of hibiscus tea per day reduced systolic blood pressure by an average of 7.2 mm Hg in people with mild hypertension. Researchers believe that hibiscus tea works to improve how endothelial cells lining the blood vessels function. That process may promote healthy blood flow, but the anthocyanins and polyphenols may also lead to a reduction in systolic and diastolic blood pressure levels.

Green Tea

Green tea is another favorite among tea enthusiasts, especially if people look to receive a small caffeine boost. Green tea contains specific bioactive compounds called catechins, specifically epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG). EGCG has been associated with various health benefits, including blood pressure reduction. A meta-analysis of 14 randomized controlled trials revealed that drinking green tea contributed to modest but statistically significant decreases in blood pressure. Other research notes that the antioxidant-rich catechins help improve endothelial function and promote vascular relaxation.

Black Tea

If you prefer black tea to green tea for your caffeine hit, you’re in luck! Several studies indicate that drinking three cups of black tea per day may help lower blood pressure. Researchers attribute this benefit to the flavonoids in black tea, such as theaflavins and thearubigins. These compounds may help to inhibit certain enzymatic activity that causes blood vessel constriction.

Olive Leaf Tea

Made from the leaves of the olive tree, olive leaf tea has a gentle, herbal flavor. Olive leaf tea contains oleuropein and hydroxytyrosol, which are two compounds that support blood pressure regulation by relaxing the blood vessels. A small 2017 study monitored 31 participants who consumed olive leaf tea for 28 weeks. They prepare the tea by steeping five grams of dried and ground leaves in 250 milliliters of hot water. They consumed this tea twice daily over the course of the study. Within four weeks, participants experienced significant reductions in systolic and diastolic blood pressure. 

Chamomile Tea

We cannot ignore chamomile tea, which is known for its mild, soothing, and calming properties. Many people drink chamomile tea to promote relaxation before bedtime. Researchers note that it contains compounds, such as terpenoids, flavonoids, and coumarins, that may help control blood pressure. In a randomized, controlled trial, participants drank chamomile tea for 12 weeks and experienced a significant reduction in systolic blood pressure compared to a placebo. The researchers behind the study suggest that chamomile’s anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties may contribute to this effect.

As a final note, these teas are not intended to treat high blood pressure. They are not medications and may not work for everyone. Additionally, maintaining a healthy diet and lifestyle may enhance the benefits of these teas. Should you have questions about the teas if you take blood pressure medication, consult your healthcare professional.

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Made from dried hibiscus plants, hibiscus tea is an herbal tea with a tart flavor reminiscent of cranberry juice. People drink it hot or iced to reap the many health benefits. Hibiscus tea has been known to boost energy levels, reduce blood lipid levels, and assist with blood pressure and cholesterol reduction. Some people drink hibiscus tea because it helps contribute to a slimmer waistline. 

What Is Hibiscus?

The hibiscus plant originated in North Africa and Southeast Asia, but it currently grows in many tropical and subtropical climates worldwide. The flower has a long history of use in folk medicine, being an excellent source of phytonutrients and antioxidants like vitamin C. Additionally, the flower contains the calyx, which experts believe is the source of its health benefits, but it also helps to protect the plant. 

6 Benefits Of Drinking Hibiscus Tea

Antioxidants Galore

Hibiscus is rich in anthocyanins, which give the flowers their signature red hue. These plant compounds work to fight free radicals in the body. Free radicals contribute to oxidative stress, which can lead to early signs of aging and and increased risk of chronic illness and disease. Several studies found a link between a reduction in free radicals and a lower risk of dementia, diabetes, and cardiovascular disease. The high concentration of antioxidants in hibiscus tea may be able to slow the onset of these chronic illnesses. They may even keep your skin looking flawless!

Antibacterial Properties

Hibiscus flower petals are excellent sources of vitamin C, which is a known immunity booster and powerful antioxidant. It also boasts natural antibacterial properties, which help fight off pathogens that cause infections in the body. One study in 2016 found that hibiscus extract effectively combatted gram-positive and negative bacteria. The extract proved to be more effective than penicillin against certain bacterial strains. Another study found that hibiscus extract was effective against E. coli bacteria in a lab setting. 

Beneficial For Your Heart

According to several studies, drinking hibiscus tea can help to lower blood pressure. The Journal of Nutrition said that adults who regularly consumed three eight-ounce servings of hibiscus tea daily for six weeks experienced a reduction in overall blood pressure. In a separate study, researchers concluded that a daily cup of hibiscus tea was able to reduce systolic blood pressure by 7.5 mmHg and the diastolic blood pressure by 3.53 mmHg. 

May Assist With Weight Loss

The anthocyanins in hibiscus have antihyperlipidemic properties, which work to prevent fat from accumulating in the body. Hibiscus also contains water, which has demonstrated an ability to reduce cholesterol and triglyceride levels. The way it does this is by preventing lipid absorption in the digestive system. In a lab study, people consumed 100 milligrams of hibiscus extract for one month. At the end of the study, every person experienced reduced blood glucose levels, and HDL (good cholesterol) levels increased. For people who are already overweight, hibiscus tea may help to cut down abdominal fat. It helps stave off cravings for sweets by changing the taste in your mouth to bitter. 

Good For The Liver

The liver is one of the hardest working organs in the body, working to secrete bile and flush out toxins from your system. Several studies found that hibiscus tea helps to improve overall performance and health. One study, which involved 19 obese people, involved taking hibiscus extract for three months. At the end of the study, the participants experienced improved liver steatosis, which is caused by fat accumulating in the liver. In other research studies, scientists found that the polyphenols in hibiscus helped reduce liver enzymes during inflammation, or after eating fatty foods. This can reduce oxidative damage to the liver and may even prevent lipid peroxidation. 

Immune Support

Need a little help keeping the sniffles away? Hibiscus tea is the perfect beverage to keep your immune system strong. The hibiscus flower is rich in vitamin C, which works to keep immune cells healthy. It’s a known antioxidant that also helps to reduce free radical damage. Additionally, hibiscus tea is rich in iron, which is essential for red blood cell production and balancing the immune system. The fact that hibiscus has both vitamin C and iron is amazing because vitamin C increases the bioavailability of iron, meaning your body can absorb it more easily. 

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This may come as a surprise to some of you, but certain flowers can be consumed to reap their health benefits. That’s right, folks, you can stop to smell the roses and eat them too! Like plucking apples from apple trees, flowers can be taken from their stems, cleaned, and added to your salads, desserts, soups, teas, and more. Not only do they beautify your dishes with vibrant colors, but some flowers also have the potential to boost immune function, reduce blood pressure, and contribute to better sleep.

A Few Warnings

This may not need to be said, but we’re going to say it anyway: DO NOT PICK A RANDOM FLOWER AND JUST POP IT IN YOUR MOUTH. Not all flowers are edible, and some can negatively affect your body because they are dangerous to consume. Flowers you should avoid include potato flowers, sweet pea, and foxglove, to name a few. Make sure that you don’t pick roadside flowers because vehicle exhaust and other residues can collect on the petals. Fragrant flowers taste the best, but they can also have a more pungent flavor. Finally, avoid the white base of the petals because that area tends to have an off-putting taste.

Nutrients Galore

Many flowers have a diverse mix of vitamins, minerals, phytochemicals, and flavonoids, all of which you need for a healthier body. Most flowers offer a lot of vitamin C, which works to boost the immune system and fight off infections, while other flowers support heart function with the potassium and magnesium content. Because flowers are vividly colored, they have diverse phytonutrients and antioxidants, which help to encourage healthier cells by fighting off oxidative stress. For more benefits of edible flowers, read about six of them below.

Nasturtium

This is a highly used flower in the culinary world because of the beautiful blossoms and unique peppery flavor profile. The leaves of the nasturtium flower are rich in vitamin C and contain a sulfur compound, which has historically been used for its antibacterial properties. Indigenous Peruvians used nasturtium in traditional medicinal practices to help reduce inflammation and replenish the body with vitamin C. Nasturtium flowers contain ten times more vitamin C than lettuce and offer small amounts of vitamin A. 

Honeysuckle

There are over 200 varieties of honeysuckle in existence, but the most common ones are woodbine and Japanese honeysuckle. The fragrant blossoms have been applied to the skin in Traditional Chinese Medicine to help remedy inflammatory skin conditions. When it comes to the culinary world, honeysuckle is commonly brewed into a tea or made into syrups to naturally sweeten beverages. The flowers are safe to eat, but the berries can be toxic when consumed in excess. 

Pansy

Pansies are as pleasant to eat as they are to look at. The blue, purple, and yellow blossoms are quite dazzling and offer a floral flavor that can be refreshing. These blossoms are commonly added to desserts to enhance the presentation, but they can also be chopped up and added to salads for added color and texture. While they are visually stunning, most people fail to recognize the powerful antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.

Borage

You may be shocked to discover that the vibrant blue borage blossom tastes similar to a cucumber. These flowers can be wonderful additions to salads, dips, sorbets, or tangy lemonades. Historically, people have used borage blossoms to help remedy sore throat or minor coughs. The essential fatty acids have been known to balance hormones and regulate metabolic rate, but more research needs to be done in this field.

Hibiscus

Many people are familiar with hibiscus tea, which is a known vasodilator that has demonstrated anti-hypertensive effects. Several studies have shown that hibiscus tea helps to relax aortic rings by inhibiting calcium influx into vascular smooth muscle cells. This means that it has potential blood pressure-lowering properties. Hibiscus flowers come in deep red, white, yellow, orange, and various pinks. While sometimes used strictly for ornamental purposes, hibiscus blossoms offer unique flavor and make great additions to jams, salads, relishes, or teas.

Calendula

This beautiful orange or yellow flower has a long history of being made into topical oils and salves to help remedy wounds and burns. One study, which involved cancer patients undergoing radiation therapy, found that calendula ointment demonstrated superior properties to prescription products for reducing radiation burns. The University of Maryland Medical Center found that these flowers contain more lutein and zeaxanthin, two important flavonoids, than kale, spinach, or collard greens. Calendula flowers can actually be substituted for saffron in any recipes and they offer a unique flavor to a leafy green salad.

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High blood pressure or hypertension has become one of the leading causes of death worldwide. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), high blood pressure is responsible for 12.8% of total deaths around the world each year. Defined by increased pressure in the arteries, high blood pressure makes the heart pump harder, increasing the risk for heart attack, stroke, arterial aneurysm, or heart failure.

When people get serious about lowering blood pressure, there are many foods that you need to ditch. These high-sodium foods include canned soups, deli meats, frozen meals, refined sugars, trans fats, sodas, and more. Many people have turned to plant-based foods like fruits, vegetables, nuts, seeds, legumes, and whole grains to help decrease LDL cholesterol levels and blood pressure. Vegetables that contain potassium and fiber have been especially helpful in managing blood pressure levels. In addition to making the plant-based switch, someone with high blood pressure is encouraged to consume a combination of the following juices on a daily basis.

Celery Juice

Celery juice has become one of the most popular juices in the health world as of late, and for good reason. Containing 3-n-butyphtalide compounds, which contribute to the taste and aroma of celery, celery helps to relax the muscles in the walls of blood vessels. When blood vessels dilate and allow blood to flow more smoothly, it is possible for blood pressure levels to decline.

Spinach Juice

Spinach is an excellent source of potassium, which has been proven to relax tension in blood vessels and arteries. In doing so, blood can flow more fluidly, bringing blood pressure levels down in the process. Spinach also contains lutein, which helps to prevent the thickening of arterial walls, ultimately reducing the risk of increased blood pressure levels and heart attack.

Pomegranate Juice

Pomegranate juice should be made fresh at home, or fresh at a juice bar. Most bottled pomegranate juices often contain processed ingredients and sugar, both of which are detrimental to high blood pressure patients. Fresh pomegranate juice is loaded with potassium and other heart-healthy nutrients, and it contains three times more antioxidants than green tea. A 2017 study found that regular consumption of pomegranate juice significantly reduced blood pressure levels.

Carrot Juice

People tend to think that carrots are solely beneficial for eye health, when they are beneficial for many conditions, including high blood pressure. The potassium content makes them attractive to those looking to decrease blood pressure levels. According to the book Healing Food, carrots may help reduce the risk of atherosclerosis and stroke.

In addition to consuming the above juices, people with high blood pressure should also drink hibiscus tea. The antioxidants and anthocyanins may inhibit blood vessels from narrowing, the act of which causes blood pressure to increase. Should you decide to sweeten hibiscus tea, choose stevia, raw agave syrup, or grade A maple syrup. Drink about three cups a day to reap the full benefits.

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There’s nothing like having long, luscious locks that look like they could be featured in a shampoo or conditioner commercial. Those hair product commercials convince us to buy chemical products that actually cause hair to become damaged, limp, and undernourished over time. It turns out that one of the best things you can do for your hair is to change your diet.

To help keep your hair healthy, there are certain foods that you need to eat. There are also some general tips that can improve the look of your locks. First off, it’s important to establish healthy digestion because this will help your body absorb the nutrients, which contribute to healthy hair growth. You can add probiotics, for example, fermented vegetables or sauerkraut to your diet to promote healthy gut flora.

Secondly, it’s integral to keep it natural. While eating a healthy diet strengthens your hair, using natural hair products helps to nourish, instead of damage, your hair. Try a natural shampoo or make your own beauty products using coconut oil!

Your hair requires certain nutrients, but what do you eat in order to get them? Consume the following foods to provide nourishment for your hair.

Vitamins & Minerals

You need vitamins and minerals if you want healthy hair. Iron and zinc are essential! While zinc gives your hair the classic shine, iron helps to carry oxygen to your hair follicles. Lucky for you, these nutrients are abundant in many plant-based foods. All you need to do is eat your fair share of quinoa, beans, sesame seeds, hibiscus tea, lentils, and oranges. Make sure to vary your foods to get a wide variety of nutrients.

Healthy Fats

Healthy fats help to keep your hair and skin healthy. Avocados, raw nuts, and virgin coconut oil have many essential fatty acids that help turn dry, brittle hair into luscious locks that look hydrated.

Apple Cider Vinegar

If you have a build-up of hair products on your scalp or in your hair, apple cider vinegar can help clean up that build-up and balance the pH levels. Mix equal parts apple cider vinegar and water and wash your hair like normal, using a natural shampoo and conditioner. Finish washing with the apple cider vinegar solution. Leave the mixture in and then rinse it after a few minutes.

Coconut Oil

Coconut oil has been known as the “the miracle ingredient” for your hair. It is a great hair mask that works to hydrate your hair, and it can help remedy split ends too! Apply a small scoop of coconut oil to your hair at night, cover with a shower cap to avoid staining your pillow case, and wash it out in the morning. You’ll experience natural shine and bounce.

Protein

Your hair is primarily made up of protein, so it makes sense that you need protein for healthy hair growth. Rather than going to town on meat and dairy products, go for whole grains, nuts, legumes, seeds, and leafy green vegetables. There are many plant-based protein sources, like spirulina, which the body can use more efficiently than animal-based protein sources.

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People seem to be obsessed with B vitamins, more specifically Vitamin B12. This vitamin helps to maintain healthy nerve function and efficient metabolism. What about the other B-vitamins, though? B vitamins are integral for healthy growth and development, and you may experience muscle and nerve problems without them in your diet.

Where Do You Get B Vitamins?

Most people rely solely on animal products to obtain their daily dose of B vitamins. This is primarily because they are abundant in foods like dairy products, fish, turkey, eggs, red meat, and poultry. However, it is just as easy and more beneficial to get B vitamins from plant-based sources.

The same misconception exists when it comes to getting enough protein in your diet. You can easily get enough protein by solely consuming plant-based foods. The same is true for getting your B vitamins. You’ll find all the B vitamins and where you can get them below.

Vitamin B1 (Thiamin)

This vitamin works to maintain healthy hair, boost brain function, and aid with the metabolism of carbohydrates. Thiamin also helps with energy production. You can find thiamin in nutritional yeast, beans, pine nuts, peas, hibiscus tea, cilantro, watermelon, acorn squash, sunflower seeds, tahini, spirulina, and asparagus.

Vitamin B2 (Riboflavin)

Vitamin B2 works in conjunction with other B vitamins to aid red blood cell production. It also helps convert food to energy and break down carbohydrates. You can find riboflavin in green leafy vegetables, almonds, sesame seeds, mushrooms, buckwheat, and quinoa.

Vitamin B3 (Niacin)

Niacin is a water-soluble vitamin that has been extensively studied. It helps to maintain a healthy cardiovascular system and works to balance blood cholesterol levels. It also helps with brain function and maintains healthy skin. Niacin can be found in avocados, beans, potatoes, durian fruit, tomatoes, chia seeds, wild rice, green peas, sunflower seeds, barley, and mushrooms.

Vitamin B5 (Pantothenic Acid)

This vitamin is necessary for healthy hormone and cholesterol (the good kind) production. Additionally, it helps the body metabolize food and works to improve your focus. Vitamin B5 is found in sweet potatoes, paprika, nutritional yeast, broccoli, avocados, tomatoes, kale, cabbage, lentils, and beans.

Vitamin B6 (Pyridoxine)

Pyridoxine has been known to relieve anxiety by aiding the conversion of tryptophan, an amino acid, to niacin and serotonin for better nerve function. This vitamin also helps to improve your sleep cycle, mood, immune function, and works to naturally maintain homeostasis. It is found in garlic, sage, kale, collards, figs, pistachios, spirulina, chia seeds, beans, avocados, bananas, watermelon, almonds, chickpeas, beans, all squash, artichokes, and green beans.

Vitamin B7 (Biotin)

Much like niacin, biotin plays a key role in healthy hormone and cholesterol production. It also works to reduce blood sugar levels by synthesizing glucose. Additionally, biotin helps break down fatty acids, which is necessary for healthy hair, skin, and nails. You can find it in almonds, chia seeds, onions, oats, tomatoes, carrots, walnuts, beans, and sweet potatoes.

Vitamin B9 (Folate)

Folate and folic acid are not the same. Folic acid is a synthetic B vitamin found in dietary supplements and fortified foods, meaning it can be difficult for the body to process. This is why consuming plant-based foods that contain folate is more beneficial than taking the synthetic form. It works with vitamins B12 & C to successfully utilize proteins. It also helps with brain development, red blood cell formation, and can help prevent birth defects. It is found in lentils, beets, asparagus, broccoli, beans, leafy vegetables, nutritional yeast, artichokes, cantaloupe, walnuts, flaxseeds, cauliflower, tahini, peas, okra, celery, hazelnuts, and leeks.

Vitamin B12 (Cobalamin)

This B vitamin is necessary for healthy nerve function and red blood cell production. It also works to prevent depression, aids digestion, improves your iron uptake, and is optimal for brain function. You can find it in spirulina (the best source), nutritional yeast, some vegan protein powders, fortified almond milk, and fortified coconut milk.

As you can see, you can get your B vitamins from plant-based foods. Your body will have a much easier time processing these B vitamins because plant-based foods are much easier to digest!

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September is Ovarian Cancer Awareness Month, so we wanted to give you some information about women’s health and helpful tips to help women reach optimum health. While this article is not about ovarian cancer, we feel that it is imperative to inform women about polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS).

What Is PCOS?

Polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) is a condition that involves imbalanced estrogen and progesterone levels in women.  This imbalance can lead to ovarian cysts, which are benign masses on the ovaries.  The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services estimates that about 1 in 20 women of childbearing age has PCOS, and that the condition affects roughly five million women in America.  PCOS can also affect a woman’s menstrual cycle, cardiovascular health, and fertility.

Symptoms

Women with PCOS will typically experience mild symptoms at first.  Some of the common adverse side effects of PCOS include, but are not limited to, amennorhea (no menstrual period), dysmenorrheal, infertility, acne, pelvic pain, and high blood pressure.  The symptoms may vary from person to person, but common symptoms may include:

• Deeper voice
• Acne
• Irregular periods
• Hair loss
• More hair growth on face, chest, stomach, or toes
• Decrease in breast size
• Weight gain
• Pelvic pain
• Infertility
• Depression

What Causes PCOS?

Medical professionals are still unsure of the exact cause of PCOS, but it is thought that genetics may play a large role in the development of the condition.  It is a common belief that hormonal imbalances also play a large role as well.  The overproduction of androgen, which is a male sex hormone that women’s bodies also produce, is thought to be another contributing factor.  PCOS patients often have excess levels of androgen.  Some possible causes are listed below.

• Diabetes
• Genetics
• Imbalanced hormones
• Excess insulin
• Low-grade inflammation
• Excess androgen production

Natural Remedies For PCOS

It is important to note that it takes about 6-12 months of lifestyle and diet changes, in addition to the natural remedies listed below, to see positive change when living with PCOS.

• The body thrives on foods that are nutritionally dense, so it makes sense to eat foods that will nourish your body, especially when you have a condition like PCOS.  It is best to consume plant-based foods like fresh fruits, vegetables, nuts, seeds, legumes, and whole grains.  Try to avoid eating processed foods like white flour, high fructose corn syrup, meat, pasta, added sugars, artificial sweeteners, and canola oil.  You should notice a change in how your body feels when consume a plant-based diet.
• Irregular menstrual cycles are common in women with PCOS.  It is beneficial to eat foods that have iron and magnesium because they help to build healthy blood, which is necessary for regular menstruation.  Raw cacao is a great source of both iron and magnesium.  You can also eat foods like avocados, bananas, hibiscus tea, apple cider vinegar, leafy greens, beans, walnuts, pumpkin seeds, and broccoli, among others.
• Licorice root helps the body to maintain balanced hormone levels because it promotes healthy production and release.  Additionally, licorice root can also help to support a healthy liver and healthy insulin levels, which is an integral part of naturally remedying PCOS.
• Eat foods that are low on the glycemic index and glycemic load list.  Low glycemic index foods are carbohydrates that slowly break down in the body, meaning that you don’t have a spike or drop in your insulin levels.  If you have insulin resistant PCOS and are overweight, try not to eat more than a half-cup of low glycemic carbs a day.  Great examples of these low glycemic foods include kale, grapefruit, walnuts, almonds, apples, beans, lentils, and asparagus.
• Stop drinking coffee because caffeine increases estrogen levels.  A recent study found that eating two cups of coffee a day boosts estradiol (a natural estrogen) levels.  If you drink 4-5 cups a day, you produce 70% more estrogen during the follicular phase of menstruation.  Since women with PCOS can have difficulty producing a viable follicle for ovulation, try to avoid coffee and caffeine in general.
• Try drinking an apple cider vinegar tonic because apple cider vinegar helps to maintain balanced pH levels in the body, while helping to inhibit bacteria, candida, or yeast build-up.  You can make a tonic that consists of 1-2 tablespoons of raw unfiltered apple cider vinegar in 8 ounces of filtered water.  Drink this first thing in the morning before consuming food.
• A lot of people enjoy doing high-intensity exercise routines.  Rather than doing that, it may be beneficial to try stress-reducing exercises such as Pilates, yoga, Tai Chi, biking, walking, swimming, or barre class.

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One of the most common questions we get asked at Dherbs is whether or not the Full Body Cleanse can help lower blood pressure. Since high blood pressure affects 1 in every 3 American adults, it makes sense that we get asked if the cleanse can help. The short answer is: yes, it does, but the person has to be willing to actively make lifestyle changes and follow the cleanse and diet regimen.

It is hard to attribute high blood pressure to one particular cause, but a poor diet filled with a lot of salt is near the top of the list. On average, Americans consume over 3,400mg of sodium per day, which exceeds the recommended 2,300mg amount. For those with high blood pressure, the recommended daily amount of sodium is 1,500mg. When someone with high blood pressure is cleansing, the amount of salt he/she eats is extremely minute, which helps naturally lower the body’s sodium content. Just to give you a relatable figure, 1 teaspoon of salt equals 2,300mg of sodium and 1,500mg of sodium is just over ½ teaspoon.

Should You Take High Blood Pressure Medication While Cleansing?

It is not the policy of Dherbs.com to recommend, suggest, insist, imply, tell, or instruct any individual to change the dosage of or stop taking any prescribed medication(s) while taking herbs, participating in a Cleanse, or at any other time. Any decision about changing your dosage of or ceasing the use of pharmaceutical-grade drug(s), while taking herbs or participating in a cleanse, that have been prescribed by a doctor or other medical practitioner is a decision that can only be made by you, based on your own free will. Please contact us by phone (866-434-3727) or email us (info@dherbs.com) with any questions.

In the Beginning of the Cleanse

When someone with high blood pressure begins the Full Body Cleanse, it is better to completely stay away from salt, even if it is sea salt. The reason for this is because you body has to reduce the amount of sodium that is in it. During this process is attempting to naturally regulate blood pressure. This means that the person may experience dips or spikes in blood pressure. The important thing is to remain calm and realize that the body is relearning what it knew how to do prior to taking medication.

Herbs That Pull Sodium & Processed Foods From Body

The formulas in the Full Body Cleanse which are most beneficial to people with high blood pressure are the Blood & Lymphatic, Cardiovascular, and Colon & Digestive Tract formulas. These help cleanse your digestive tract, your cardiovascular system, and your blood. An ill-functioning cardiovascular system can create that elevated pressure that is necessary to pump blood throughout the body.

Go For Potassium Rich Foods

Since you are going to be on a raw foods diet (only eating raw fruits, vegetables, and raw nuts & seeds) while cleansing, make sure you get your fair share of potassium-rich foods to remove sodium from the body. Foods that are high in potassium include:

• Leafy Greens (chard, spinach, kale)
• Acorn Squash
• White Mushrooms
• Dried Fruit (apricots & raisins without sulfur)
• Bananas
• Avocado
• Freshly Squeezed Orange Juice

Foods That Naturally Help Lower Blood Pressure

• Flaxseed
• Beets
• Pistachios
• Berries
• Hibiscus Tea
• Celery juice
• Beet juice
• Garlic

Drink A Lot of Water

You are going to drink a lot of water while you are cleansing. This helps flush toxins from your system, while nourishing the cells in your body. The alkaline water also aids with creating a neutral pH balance in the body.

Take A Walk

Walking or being active reduces fluid build up in the body. Being active for at least 30 minutes a day, even if the activity is low-impact, can also improve your metabolism. After you are finished exercising, elevate your legs for 20 minutes to help increase circulation.

Things To Keep In Mind When The Cleanse Is Over

Remember that eating a lot of processed foods, snack foods, junk foods, fried foods, dairy products, meat, meat products, or refined sugars is what lead you to cleansing. Take into account how your body felt while cleansing and incorporate what you learned on the cleanse into your new lifestyle. Always go easy on the salt! Season your food with citrus juices, herbs, and other spices to add flavor to the point where salt isn’t necessary. Don’t negate the progress you make by reverting to old habits. Stay strong, eat your way healthy, and you can always cleanse again in the future to maintain your new-found health.

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Let’s dispel one thing right off the bat: a vegan diet can provide just as much, if not more, iron than a non-vegan diet. There are plenty of plant-based foods that are iron-rich. By avoiding coffee and caffeinated tea during meals and increasing your legume (lentils, peas, & beans) intake, you’ll be well on your way to fulfilling your daily iron requirement.

What’s So Important About Iron?

Every living cell, be it in a plant or animal, has iron, which is an essential element. The iron in your body is primarily found in two proteins: hemoglobin and myoglobin. Hemoglobin, found in red blood cells, carries oxygen in the blood to your lungs and all tissues in the body. Myoglobin in muscle stores oxygen for use during exercise. Iron is also needed for red blood cell production. Additionally, iron helps enzyme production and generates energy, which is why a cup of hibiscus tea can help fuel you throughout the day. Did we mention that the immune system depends on iron for physical and mental growth, particularly during childhood? Well, it does and we lose iron by sweating, defecating, urinating, or bleeding, which is why women need more iron than men. Iron is the body’s gold and needs to be continually replenished.

How Much Iron Do You Need?

The recommended dietary intake of iron one requires depends entirely on age, gender, and condition. Since the body cannot produce iron by itself, it is important to have it in your daily diet, otherwise you could become iron deficient. Some people are naturally deficient in iron or experience events (heavy blood loss during childbirth or period, intestinal disorder that limits the body’s ability to hold iron, or too much exercise without increasing iron intake) that cause a loss of iron. If you lack iron in your diet, you may be easily fatigued, experience headaches, be grumpy, or have decreased energy.

Foods that Block Iron Absorption

Believe it or not, there are foods that block the absorption of iron. Unless the person is truly iron deficient, iron blocking foods won’t have a negative effect when consumed with iron-rich foods. Tannins, which are in tea leaves, red grapes, chocolate, and coffee can block the absorption of iron by 50%. Zinc or manganese supplements, peppermint, chamomile, egg protein, calcium supplements, and dairy foods can also inhibit iron absorption. On the other side of that coin, there are foods, like vitamin C, that boost iron levels. Eating 63 milligrams of vitamin C (1 navel orange) during a meal can triple the iron absorption from plant-based foods. Below is a list of foods that can help you increase your iron levels.

List of Iron-Rich Plant-Based Foods

• Sesame Seeds
• Pumpkin Seeds
• Sunflower Seeds
• Lentils
• Spinach
• Chickpeas
• Lima Beans
• Kidney Beans
• Swiss Chard
• Quinoa
• Beet & Turnip Greens
• Bok Choy
• Kale
• Brussels Sprouts
• Cashews
• Almonds
• Peas
• Quinoa
• Watermelon
• Broccoli

Iron is a crucial part of your diet and is readily available for vegans and vegetarians. Don’t ever let anyone say that eating meat is the only way you can get your daily dose of iron. There’s no need to fret because lots of plant-based foods have the iron you need.

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