Controlling hypertension is a key condition for preventing heart attacks and strokes. At the same time, many patients mistakenly believe that vitamins and herbal supplements cannot harm the body. In fact, some of them can not only reduce the effectiveness of drug treatment, but also directly provoke an increase in blood pressure. Doctor of Pharmaceutical Sciences Kirstin Gill warns: with hypertension, a number of popular supplements should be treated with extreme caution.
High doses of vitamin D
Vitamin D is essential for bone, immune system, and muscle health, but too much of it can be dangerous. Doses of more than 10,000 international units per day can lead to hypercalcemia, which is too much calcium in the blood. This can damage blood vessels, causing them to stiffen and increase blood pressure. In addition, high doses of vitamin D can reduce the effectiveness of diuretics, which are often used to treat high blood pressure.
Licorice root (licorice)
Licorice is widely used in herbal teas, cough syrups, and even sweets. However, the glycyrrhizic acid contained in this plant retains sodium in the body and contributes to the loss of potassium. Such an electrolyte imbalance can cause a sharp increase in blood pressure. The combination of licorice with diuretics is especially dangerous, as the risk of potassium deficiency increases significantly.
Hypericum
St. John's wort is often used as a natural mood enhancer. However, for people with high blood pressure, it can cause serious problems. The plant activates liver enzymes responsible for drug metabolism, which makes hypertension drugs less effective. The patient may take the prescribed pills regularly, but not get the expected therapeutic effect.
Arnica
Arnica is well known as an external remedy for bruises and swelling. However, taking it internally in the form of drops or tablets can be dangerous. Oral administration of arnica is associated with toxic effects on the heart muscle, digestive disorders and a rapid increase in blood pressure. Experts emphasize: arnica should be used exclusively externally and only on intact skin.
Bitter orange
Bitter orange is often included in weight loss supplements and sports nutrition. The main active ingredient, synephrine, acts similarly to the banned ephedrine. It stimulates the nervous system, increases heart rate, and constricts blood vessels. For people with hypertension, this can pose a direct threat, increasing the risk of hypertensive crises and cardiovascular complications.
Experts emphasize that the reaction to dietary supplements depends on age, general health, genetic characteristics, and interactions with medications. That is why people with high blood pressure should consult a doctor before starting any vitamins or herbal remedies.
