Arterial hypertension refers to a condition where blood pressure consistently exceeds normal values (systolic >140 mmHg and/or diastolic >90 mmHg). It is one of the most common chronic conditions worldwide and particularly widespread among adults over 40 in Georgia.
What Causes High Blood Pressure?
Genetic predisposition
Unhealthy diet – too much salt, fatty or processed foods
Overweight and obesity
Physical inactivity
Chronic stress and emotional strain
Smoking, alcohol, and excessive caffeine intake
Common Symptoms:
Headaches (especially in the back of the head in the morning)
Heart palpitations or irregular heartbeat
Dizziness
Fatigue and weakness
Blurred vision
Ringing in the ears
Note: Hypertension often has no symptoms, which is why it’s known as the “silent killer.” Regular blood pressure monitoring is essential.Major Complications if Left Untreated:
Stroke
Heart attack (myocardial infarction)
Kidney failure
Vision problems or blindness
Aneurysm or vascular damage
Traditional Folk Remedies for High Blood Pressure
In Georgian folk medicine, various natural remedies have been passed down through generations to help reduce blood pressure and improve overall cardiovascular health.
1. Garlic and Honey – Folk Anti-Hypertensive Elixir
Ingredients:
10 cloves of garlic
5 tablespoons of natural honey
Juice of 1 lemon
Preparation & Use:
Crush the garlic and mix it with lemon juice and honey. Take 1 teaspoon twice daily before meals. Helps improve circulation and regulate blood pressure.
2. Beetroot Juice
Effect:
Enhances blood quality
Naturally lowers both systolic and diastolic pressure
Use:
Drink ½ cup of fresh beet juice in the morning on an empty stomach or mixed with green apple juice.
3. Valerian Root and Mint Tea
Ingredients:
1 tablespoon valerian root
1 tablespoon dried mint
500 ml water
Preparation:
Boil the mixture for 10 minutes, then let steep. Drink 100 ml 3 times a day. It calms the nervous system and supports heart function.
4. Rosehip Tea
Effect:
Rich in vitamin C
Supports heart and vascular health
Acts as a gentle diuretic
Preparation:
Boil 1 tablespoon of dried rosehips in 300 ml of water for 10 minutes. Drink throughout the day.
5. Lemon Zest and Bran Blend
Ingredients:
1 teaspoon grated lemon zest
2 tablespoons wheat or oat bran
1 tablespoon honey
Use:
Mix and consume on an empty stomach. Helps regulate digestion and reduce blood pressure naturally.
6. Carrot and Celery Juice
Effect:
High in potassium
Balances sodium levels
Supports healthy heartbeat
Use:
Juice equal parts fresh carrots and celery. Drink 1 glass daily, preferably in the morning.
Healthy Lifestyle Tips for Managing Hypertension:
Limit salt intake to under 1 teaspoon per day
Lose excess weight if overweight
Walk or exercise at least 30 minutes daily
Avoid stress and develop calming routines
Stay well hydrated with clean water
Reduce caffeine and avoid smoking or alcohol
Monitor your blood pressure regularly
Marina’s Story – How I Lowered My Blood Pressure Naturally
My name is Marina, I’m 52 years old and live in Tbilisi. In 2023, during a routine check-up, my doctor diagnosed me with stage 1 hypertension. My blood pressure was around 150/95 mmHg. I had constant headaches, dizziness, and would often feel exhausted even after a short walk.
I was prescribed medication, but I also wanted to try natural methods to support the treatment. Here’s what I did over the next 3 months:
What I Changed:
Diet: I cut back on salt, removed processed foods, and started eating more greens, nuts, and berries.
Remedies I used:
Drank ½ cup beet juice every morning.
Took garlic + honey + lemon elixir twice daily.
Made valerian and mint tea every evening before sleep.
Physical activity: Started walking 30 minutes a day (even just in the yard).
Weight loss: I lost 5 kg in 2 months, mostly belly fat.
The Results:
After 6 weeks, my blood pressure went down to 138/88 mmHg
After 3 months, it stabilized at 125/80 mmHg
I now take medication only occasionally, under medical supervision
My headaches are gone, and I sleep better than I have in years
Conclusion
High blood pressure is a serious condition that can develop silently and lead to life-threatening outcomes. The good news is that natural remedies, combined with a healthy lifestyle, can make a big difference in managing it. Georgian folk medicine offers a rich selection of plant-based and holistic treatments that can be used alongside conventional therapies — always with guidance from a healthcare provider.
