Did you know there are many herbs, spices & plants that have been studied for their effects on blood pressure & the cardiovascular system? And some of these have actual human trials behind them, not just traditional claims! Here are 8 worth knowing about: 1) Hibiscus (Hibiscus sabdariffa) is one of the better studied plants for blood pressure. Clinical studies indicate tea made from the plant & extracts may help reduce both systolic & diastolic blood pressure! Anthocyanins & other polyphenols are suspected to contribute to these effects. 2) Garlic (Allium sativum) contains sulfur compounds, like allicin, that have been studied for their ability to support blood vessel relaxation. Human trials have found a reduction in blood pressure especially in people with hypertension. 3) Olive leaf (Olea europaea) is rich in phenolic compounds. Research has looked into its effects on blood pressure, vascular function & cardiovascular health. 4) Black seed (Nigella sativa) is also called black cumin. & it contains compounds that have been studied for their cardiovascular effects. Clinical studies suggest it modestly reduces blood pressure. 5) Celery seed has been traditionally used as a diuretic. It has emerging research into its compounds for its potential blood pressure lowering effects. 6) Cinnamon (Cinnamomum spp) has some clinical studies that have found modest improvements in blood pressure. It’s being investigated for its effects on vascular function & metabolic health. 7) Hawthorn (Crataegus spp) has been traditionally used for cardiovascular health. It contains flavanoids & other plant compounds that are being studied for their effects on circulation & vascular function. 8)) Ginseng (Panax spp) contains ginsenosides which have been looked into for their effects on vascular function & cardiovascular health. Blood pressure findings are mixed though. 🤷🏽‍♀️ While I was thumbing through research papers, I found a 2026 review where 47 random trials were examined involving 3,559 participants. This review found high certainty evidence that celery seed reduced systolic blood pressure, while hibiscus and garlic also showed promising results, with moderate certainty evidence. I will say, clinical studies are very different than drinking the occasional cup of tea. A lot of times these tests are done with concentrated extracts… And don’t forget, licorice root can actually raise the blood pressure! lol Talk to your doctor first if you’re pregnant/nursing, on meds or have a health condition! This is not medical advice. 😊 And always do your research first! ❤️