Yesterday I was asked a great question by one of the teacher’s at my daughters school. She wanted to know which essential oils are beneficial for low blood pressure (hypotension) that her mother could use. Although this is not normally what we are asked, usually we get asked about hypertension, or high blood pressure, I was motivated to begin some research.
Hypotension, also known as low blood pressure, is a condition that many of you have to deal with daily. What is low blood pressure? Low blood pressure can be defined as below normal ranges of 120/80, for example 100/60 or 90/50. Some people experience no symptoms with low blood pressure, while others suffer terribly.
What Are The Symptoms of Hypotension?
Symptoms can include feeling lightheaded, dizzy, or faint due to insufficient blood flow to the brain and major organs. These symptoms are often worse when you go from a lying down position to sitting or standing.
When there is insufficient blood pressure to deliver blood to the coronary arteries (the arteries that supply blood to the heart’s muscle), a person may develop chest pain (a symptom of angina) or even a heart attack.
Causes Of Low Blood Pressure
- Dehydration
- Moderate to severe bleeding-(ex.) bleeding ulcer
- Inflammation in the organs-(ex.) pancreatitis
- Heart Disease
- Slowed heart rate
- Medications-(ex.) calcium-channel blockers, beta blockers, ACE inhibitors, water pills, depression medications, alcohol
- anaphylaxis (aka:allergic reaction to bee stings, peanuts, etc.)
Low blood pressure can be serious. When the flow of blood is too low to deliver enough oxygen and nutrients to vital organs such as the brain, heart, and kidney, the organs do not function normally and may be temporarily or permanently damaged. You can find more information on MedicineNet.com.
Essential Oils for Hypotension?
If you would like to find a natural alternative for managing your low blood pressure symptoms, than essential oils are a great choice.
Suggested oils and blends for low blood pressure include:
- cypress
- geranium
- rosemary
- serenity blend
- peppermint
- thyme
The suggested use of these oils includes making a blend of 2 parts rosemary, and 1 part each geranium and cypress with a carrier oil applied to the chest and/or reflexology points found on a chart. You can also utilize a diffuser with these oils in your household.
A good place to find and explore these different essential oils is doTerra. They provide 100% pure essential oils for natural healthy living.
I encourage you to explore the many other benefits that essential oils can provide for you on your path to a healthier lifestyle.
I encourage you to comment below regarding your experiences with essential oils. Please share below on Facebook.
