Passionflower (Passiflora incarnata) relaxes the nerves and is helpful for blood pressure that increases with stress. Take 250 mg or 0.5 ml two to three times daily.

Valerian (Valeriana officinalis) is a strong nerve relaxer and may indirectly lower blood pressure. Take 300 mg or 0.5 to 1.0 ml two to three times daily.

Chamomile (Matricaria recutita) and oatstraw (Avena sativa) are great herbal nerve relaxers. They can be taken as a tea throughout the day.

Taurine is an amino acid shown in research to lower blood pressure in humans and animals. Take up to 6 grams daily between meals.

Reishi (Ganoderma lucidum) extract should be taken in 500-mg doses three times daily for a blood pressure-lowering effect.

Dandelion leaf (Taraxacum officinale) acts as a gentle, natural diuretic to lower blood pressure. Take 300 mg of the capsule form or 2 ml three times daily.

Homeopathy

Argentum Nitricum is for elevated blood pressure that occurs with anxiety. Symptoms often come on from a stressful event or "stage fright." The person is usually very warm and has strong salt and sweet cravings.

Belladonna (Atropa belladonna) is for high blood pressure that comes on suddenly. The person has a flushed face and dilated pupils and feels a great deal of heat, although the hands and the feet are cold. Pounding headaches may occur, and the person is sensitive to light.

Glonoinum may be helpful for high blood pressure that's accompanied by a bursting headache and a flushed face. The person is worse from the heat and sun exposure or from consuming alcohol.

Lachesis is for a person who is very intense, who feels suspiciousness and jealous, and who is very talkative. The person feels warm and is intolerant of anything touching the neck.

Natrum Muriaticum is for high blood pressure that begins after an emotional upset. The person desires to be alone and often experiences headaches, heart palpitations, and insomnia. There is a strong craving for salt, a great thirst, and an aversion to being in the sun.

Nux Vomica (Strychnos nux vomica) is for high blood pressure that occurs from the effects of stress. The person feels irritable and impatient and has a strong desire for stimulants such as coffee, as well as alcohol. The person is usually chilly and is prone to constipation.

Acupressure

See the acupressure page for information about pressure points and administering treatment.

• Bladder 38 simultaneously lowers blood pressure and relieves nervous tension.

• If you tend to get heart palpitations when you're agitated, take some time out of a tense situation to work Pericardium 6. This spot is located at your wrist, so it's easy to use even in a public place like the office.

• People who feel chest tension when they're upset or worried should use Conception Vessel 17.

• Encourage circulation to your heart and chest by working Heart 3 and 7.