Hello everyone, today we're discussing a topic of concern to many hypertensive patients: Can hypertensive patients drink hawthorn and Astragalus tea? The answer is yes, but let's delve into the reasons and precautions in detail.
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Efficacy and Benefits of Hawthorn and Astragalus
Hawthorn and astragalus are two commonly used Herbs in Traditional Chinese medicine that have been proven to provide various health benefits.
Efficacy of Hawthorn
Hawthorn is rich in vitamin C and various organic acids, which significantly benefit the cardiovascular system. Hawthorn can dilate blood vessels, lower blood pressure, improve circulation, and reduce the burden on the heart. Additionally, hawthorn helps with digestion and can improve the digestive system.
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Efficacy of Astragalus
Astragalus is known as the “sacred herb for boosting energy,” primarily functioning to enhance immunity and improve the body's resistance. Astragalus can dilate coronary arteries, improve myocardial blood supply, and has anti-fatigue and antioxidant effects. For hypertensive patients, astragalus can help stabilize blood pressure and prevent Cardiovascular diseases.
How to Make Hawthorn and Astragalus Tea
Hawthorn and astragalus tea is not only simple to prepare but also pleasantly sour and sweet, making it suitable for daily consumption. Here's a straightforward method.
Ingredients Needed
- Hawthorn slices: 10 grams
- Astragalus slices: 10 grams
- Water: 500 milliliters
Preparation Steps
- Rinse the hawthorn slices and astragalus slices and set them aside.
- Add 500 milliliters of water to a pot, then add the hawthorn slices and astragalus slices.
- Bring to a boil over medium heat, then simmer for 20 minutes over low heat.
- Strain the tea and pour it into a cup to drink.
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Precautions
While hawthorn and astragalus tea can assist in treating Hypertension, it may not be suitable for everyone.
Cautions for Special Populations
1. Pregnant women: Hawthorn has blood-activating properties, and its consumption by pregnant women could potentially cause miscarriage; it is recommended to avoid it.
2. Patients with gastric issues: Hawthorn is highly acidic, and those with peptic ulcers or excessive stomach acid should avoid it.
3. Allergy-prone individuals: Those allergic to hawthorn or astragalus should avoid drinking the tea.
Moderation in Consumption
The intake of any food or medication should be moderate. Daily consumption of hawthorn and astragalus tea should not exceed 500 milliliters to avoid discomfort.
Dietary Recommendations for Hypertensive Patients
In addition to hawthorn and astragalus tea, hypertensive patients should pay attention to the following aspects in their daily diet:
Consume More Vegetables and Fruits
Vegetables and fruits are rich in fiber and vitamins, helping to lower blood pressure. Foods high in potassium, such as bananas, oranges, and tomatoes, can help balance sodium and potassium levels in the body, thus controlling blood pressure.
Reduce Salt Intake
Excessive salt can lead to water retention in the body, increasing blood volume and raising blood pressure. It is recommended to limit daily salt intake to no more than 5 grams.
Increase Intake of High-Quality Protein
Hypertensive patients should choose high-quality protein sources, such as fish, beans, and lean meats, to maintain good health.
Avoid High-Fat Foods
High-fat foods increase blood viscosity, leading to higher blood pressure. Hypertensive patients should consume less fried foods, fatty meats, and cream, which are high in fat.
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Conclusion
Hawthorn and astragalus tea can play a supporting role in managing hypertension, but it cannot replace medical treatment. Hypertensive patients need to adjust their diet comprehensively, maintain a healthy lifestyle, regularly monitor their blood pressure, and follow medical advice. We hope this article provides practical dietary suggestions for hypertensive patients to better manage their health.