Prescribed beta-blockers lower heart rate. “Natural beta-blockers” in common foods, herbs, and supplements may also lower blood pressure. Here are 11 of them.
Beta-blockers are a prescription medication that stops the effects of epinephrine (adrenaline), which
Some foods, herbs, and supplements can also act as “natural beta-blockers” by lowering blood pressure naturally, but their mechanisms of action may differ from those of traditional beta-blockers.
Natural does not mean safeMany studies on natural beta-blockers do not have conclusive results. Consult a doctor before changing your diet or adding supplements to avoid adverse reactions and unwanted side effects.
“Natural beta-blockers” function in the body as beta-blockers typically do by reducing inflammation and lowering blood pressure.
These nutrients can also reduce blood pressure in other ways, so it’s important to discuss them with your doctor.
1. Antioxidants
Many fruits, vegetables, and plant-based foods contain antioxidants, which are crucial in preventing inflammatory conditions and may also lower blood pressure.
A research review from 2018 shows that eating foods containing antioxidants, such as fresh fruits and vegetables, may help reduce blood pressure.
2. L-arginine
L-arginine is an amino acid that helps produce nitric oxide (NO), which can cause blood vessels to enlarge and may help lower blood pressure.
It relaxes smooth tissue cells in the walls of blood vessels, which may lower blood pressure. This mechanism of lowering blood pressure is different than typical beta-blockers.
A 2021 research review shows that increased L-arginine levels are associated with lower blood pressure and anti-hypertensive effects.
Sources of L-arginine include:
- meat and poultry
- nuts and seeds
- leafy vegetables
3. Potassium
Adequate potassium levels in the diet can help
Many people get more than enough potassium from a balanced diet. Low fat dairy products, fish, bananas, and potatoes are a few good sources of potassium.
The
Talk with your doctor before supplementing potassium instead of consuming it solely through diet since some medications can also increase potassium.
Too much potassium can have harmful effects, including arrhythmias, especially in people with kidney disease or older adults.
4. Garlic (Allium sativum)
Garlic has been studied for many conditions, including high blood pressure and heart disease.
A 2019 research review citing older studies shows that garlic may effectively reduce blood pressure. It also may have similar benefits for other conditions that beta-blockers treat.
5. Hawthorn (Crataegus sp.)
Hawthorn is a traditional Chinese herb used to treat cardiovascular diseases.
A systematic review from 2020 of people with mild hypertension suggests that hawthorn may have a positive effect on blood pressure in the short term.
But only limited studies are available at this time. Future trials are necessary to confirm these benefits in the long term.
6. Indian snakeroot (Rauwolfia serpentina)
Rauwolfia is a traditional herbal supplement used to treat hypertension. It contains tryptophan derivatives called indole alkaloids.
This herb
But Rauwolfia can have adverse side events, including lethargy, hypotension, vomiting, and more.
More current research is very limited.
It’s important to discuss this herb with your doctor before starting.
7. Red yeast rice (Monascus purpureus)
Red yeast rice is an herbal supplement for cardiovascular disease that contains molecules called monacolins.
Monacolin K, in particular, works much like a statin and is the most well-studied compound in red yeast rice.
A 2023 research review found that red yeast rice is an effective option for lowering lipid levels in people with hypercholesterolemia.
Consult with your doctor before taking red yeast rice since it may have side effects similar to those caused by statin drugs.
8. Barberry (Berberis vulgaris)
Barberry is a traditional herbal medicine used to treat inflammatory and cardiovascular conditions.
But research from past randomized controlled trials on whether barberry can lower blood pressure is mixed. More research is needed before drawing any conclusions.
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These supplements work differently than typical beta-blockers do mechanistically.
9. Omega-3 fatty acids
Omega-3 fatty acids are polyunsaturated fatty acids that have been researched extensively for their role in heart health.
These “healthy fats” may help reduce:
- blood pressure
- blood clots
- high triglycerides and plaque deposits
- inflammation
One review of randomized controlled trials found that EPA and DHA (two types of omega-3s) may effectively lower blood pressure when taken at 2 to 3 grams per day.
Dosages higher than this may also benefit those at high risk for heart diseases.
10. CoQ10 (coenzyme Q10)
Coenzyme Q10 plays an important role in energy production and antioxidant protection. Low levels of CoQ10 have been linked to various diseases, including Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s.
A 2022 systematic review of randomized controlled trials found that CoQ10 supplementation modestly reduced systolic blood pressure in people with cardiometabolic disorders.
11. Magnesium
Magnesium is essential for metabolic processes such as muscle contraction and nervous system regulation. Low magnesium levels may lead to high blood pressure.
A 2020 research review suggests that magnesium may protect against hypertension.
Eating more fruits, vegetables, and antioxidant-rich foods has few risks, but speak with a doctor if you’re considering changing your diet or supplementation.
Most vitamins and minerals can be safely consumed as a daily multivitamin. However, some herbal supplements may interact negatively with medications.
Consult your doctor before starting any supplement, especially if you take prescription medications.
You should never stop taking your prescription beta-blockers or other treatments without your doctor’s approval.
Talk with your doctor about other nutrition and lifestyle changes that can help to reduce your blood pressure naturally. Over time, you may both feel comfortable reducing or stopping your beta-blockers.
Beta-blockers are a commonly prescribed medication for conditions such as high blood pressure and anxiety. They function by reducing the effects of adrenaline on the heart.
Natural beta-blockers, found in many fruits, vegetables, and supplements, function similarly by reducing blood pressure but may have different mechanisms of action.
These natural beta-blockers, such as garlic, red yeast rice, and barberry, may also improve your overall heart health. Consider eating more of or supplementing with these natural options.
As with any new dietary changes, always consult your doctor first.