Supplements are everywhere easily available, found on the shelves at pharmacies, showing up in wellness ads, and promising everything from better energy to a healthier heart. But if you’re living with high blood pressure, not every supplement is a safe bet. Some can raise your blood pressure or interfere with your medications, making things worse instead of better.
Here are eight supplements to steer clear of if you have high blood pressure, along with a few additional things to know before incorporating anything new into your regimen.
1. Arnica
Arnica is commonly found in creams and gels for bumps or sore muscles and is usually safe if used on the skin. But ingesting arnica is not so simple. It can elevate your blood pressure and lead to problems such as stomach upset, vomiting, rapid heart rate, and even organ damage. If you experience high blood pressure, you should apply arnica only to the surface of your body and never supplement with it.
2. Panax (Asian) Ginseng
Ginseng is a popular choice for building energy and reducing stress, but its effect on blood pressure is erratic. It’s said by some studies to lower blood pressure; others have found that it can raise blood pressure levels, especially with typical supplement dosages. Because of these mixed results, be sure to steer clear of ginseng unless your doctor okays it.
3. Bitter Orange
Used in most weight-loss pills and energy nutritional supplements, bitter orange has been linked to heightened blood pressure and heart rate. There are even instances of heart attacks and strokes associated with products that contain bitter orange. While it’s not necessarily the only offender every time, the risks are great enough that those who have hypertension should avoid them.
4. Guarana
Guarana is a plant that naturally contains caffeine and is commonly added to energy drinks and diet products. The extra caffeine can lead to raised blood pressure, faster heart rate, and in some cases, irregular heart rhythms. If you’re trying to manage your blood pressure, guarana isn’t worth the risk, especially if you’re already drinking coffee or tea regularly.
5. Licorice Root
Licorice root is used to calm a sore throat, soothe digestion, and so on. But it’s not safe if you’re hypertensive. It raises blood pressure and lowers potassium levels, and this can disrupt your heart rhythm. Large or extended doses are especially hazardous. If you have hypertension, you should avoid licorice supplements at all costs.
6. St. John’s Wort
This herbal supplement is sometimes taken for mild depression or mood changes, but it’s known to interact with a lot of medications, such as blood pressure medications. It can also increase your risk of an overdose called serotonin syndrome when taken with some antidepressants. This can cause severely high blood pressure, confusion, and a racing heart. If you’re on any prescription drugs, it’s safest to avoid St. John’s Wort.
7. Vitamin E
Vitamin E is an antioxidant often taken for heart health, but not risk-free. Some research indicates it may increase blood pressure or heart rate, especially in individuals with type 2 diabetes, while others indicate it may reduce pressure a little. Because the studies disagree and excessive doses are dangerous, best to stay away from large doses unless your doctor has specifically advised it.
8. Yohimbe
Yohimbe is an herbal supplement that is sold for sexual performance and endurance, but has some quite serious side effects. It’s been associated with high blood pressure, rapid heartbeat, and even heart attacks. It’s been restricted in many countries because of safety risks. If you are hypertensive, this is one to stay away from.
Other Supplements to Be Cautious With
Even if they are not on this list, certain supplements may be troublesome if you have a history of high blood pressure or are undergoing surgery. Garlic, fish oil, turmeric, ginkgo biloba, and green tea make you more prone to bleeding, particularly if you’re on blood thinners. Ephedra and Ma Huang supplements are especially risky and can lead to dangerous spikes in heart rate and blood pressure. Even teas made from herbs or so-called “natural” remedies can have unforeseen consequences, particularly when combined with medications.
Why You Should Talk to Your Healthcare Provider First
Many folks forget to tell their doctor about supplements, but if you have a chronic illness such as high blood pressure, that can be a serious error. Supplements are not regulated as tightly as prescription medication, so you can’t always believe what you see on the label, or that the product doesn’t have anything added or contaminated.
If you’re considering doing something different, discuss it with your healthcare provider beforehand. They can explain the dangers to you, monitor interactions with your medicines, and watch out for their impact on your blood pressure.
Know the Signs of a Blood Pressure Emergency
High blood pressure is not always accompanied by symptoms, but very high levels can cause severe warning signs. If you have severe headaches, chest pain, dizziness, difficulty breathing, a nosebleed, or a very fast or abnormal heartbeat, seek immediate medical attention.
Supplements may be beneficial to some folks’ wellness, but in high blood pressure, caution is the order of the day. Always involve your healthcare team and recall, just because it’s natural does not mean it’s safe.
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