Beta blockers are medications used to treat high blood pressure and other circulatory disorders. They act to prevent adrenalin from binding to nerve receptors. Adrenalin is a hormone responsible for what is called the “fight or flight” response that is often a trigger for anxiety. Natural beta blockers are natural ingredients that can sometimes help reduce this response. Some of the more common natural beta blockers include chamomile, pomegranate, and passionflower.
Many different types of synthetic drugs have been developed to function as beta blockers, however, for some patients, these drugs can have unpleasant or even dangerous side effects. For these patients, natural beta blockers may be a good alternative. Those who are considering making a change in treatment should first consult with their physician, as conditions such as high blood pressure can sometimes be life-threatening.
Chamomile is an herbal supplement made from the flowers of the chamomile plant. A member of the daisy family, chamomile has a long history of medicinal use. In addition to acting as a beta blocker, it can also be used to help promote sleep and ease indigestion. Chamomile is most commonly consumed as a tea, but is also available in capsule form. For most users, chamomile does not appear to cause any serious side effects.
Pomegranate is considered to be a highly effective natural antioxidant and may have some benefits as a beta blocker. Pomegranate juice has a pleasant, fruity taste, and is available at many grocers and health food stores. Some herbalists believe that by itself, pomegranate may not be particularly effective, but when used in combination with other natural beta blockers, it may boost their overall effect. According to most studies, pomegranate is safe, without risk of side effects.
Passionflower is very similar to chamomile, in that it is primary used as a sedative. The passionflower plant is a climbing vine, with tiny white or purple flowers. As a natural beta blocker, it may be successful because it increases levels of gamma-aminobutyric acid in brain cells. Increasing these levels typically brings about relaxation. Some users of passionflower report mild side effects such as dizziness, nausea, and confusion.
As with any type of medication, natural beta blockers can have dangerous drug interactions when taken with other natural or synthetic remedies. It is especially important that pregnant women exercise extreme caution before beginning any type of treatment plan. Those who are already taking synthetic drugs may need to wait until the drugs have completely left their system before taking any natural beta blockers. Making a safe transition from synthetic drugs to natural remedies may require the assistance of a physician and an herbalist.