Having trouble keeping your blood pressure under control?
Here’s an easy way to fix it: Drink more tea.
To naturally lower blood pressure readings before your next doctor’s appointment, here are 3 teas to try out.
Rooibos Tea
Also known as red bush tea, the leaves of this tea come from the coast of South Africa, where it is fermented and turned into a reddish- brown color.
The shrub is a rich source of antioxidants, and also helps inhibit ACE, or angiotensin-converting enzymes. This, in turn, lowers blood pressure by reducing blood vessel constriction.
To enjoy, brew a cup with milk or sugar for added flavor. A few cups per day should be more than enough to get your fill.
Green Tea
Everyone knows green tea is one of the healthiest beverages to consume–and the news keeps on getting better.
Any form of this tea could lower blood pressure by nearly 50 percent if you drink a half cup per day, according to research.
In addition, people who drank it everyday for a year faced a much lower risk of hypertension.
But strength matters here, stress experts. For the fastest reductions in blood pressure, stick to medium-strength varieties that aren’t decaffeinated.
Hibiscus Tea
Also derived from Africa, the flower petals of hibiscus are used in bag or loose form as a soothing daytime beverage.
Regardless how you prepare it, however, there’s a guarantee: It helps keep your blood pressure low. Studies show that repeatedly sipping this beverage reduces both systolic and diastolic blood pressure.
Be warned that this tea isn’t necessarily free of any side effects, however. Drinking too much could potentially cause liver damage, and may interact with acetaminophen, a common pain reliever.
Remember: moderation is key!