Can Houttuynia cordata lower blood pressure?
Jun 25, 2025
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Yang Ziqi
Introduction
Houttuynia cordata contains flavonoids, alkaloids, and other components, and can regulate blood pressure through mechanisms such as vasodilation, diuresis, and modulation of the sympathetic nervous system. However, blood pressure is influenced by multiple factors, and the antihypertensive effect of Houttuynia cordata varies among individuals. It may not be effective as monotherapy for severe hypertension, and excessive consumption may cause adverse effects. When using Houttuynia cordata as an adjunct for blood pressure reduction, intake should be controlled and used in conjunction with standard medical treatment under a physician's guidance.
The effective components contained in Houttuynia cordata have a certain effect on blood pressure regulation, but the effect is limited. A detailed analysis is as follows:
Houttuynia cordata is rich in flavonoids, alkaloids, and other substances that can act on vascular smooth muscle, promoting vasodilation and smoother blood flow, thereby lowering blood pressure. At the same time, the diuretic effect of Houttuynia cordata helps eliminate excess water from the body, reducing blood volume, which also contributes to lowering blood pressure. In addition, some components in Houttuynia cordata can regulate the sympathetic nervous system, reducing blood pressure increases caused by nerve excitation, thus modulating blood pressure through multiple pathways.
Although Houttuynia cordata has a blood pressure-lowering effect, it should not be relied upon as the sole method for lowering blood pressure. Blood pressure is influenced by multiple factors such as age, diet, lifestyle habits, and genetics, and Houttuynia cordata alone cannot completely counteract other adverse factors. Moreover, the blood pressure-lowering effect of Houttuynia cordata varies among individuals, with different responses observed among people with different constitutions. If hypertension is severe, simply consuming Houttuynia cordata may not achieve the desired blood pressure-lowering effect, delaying the control of the condition. Additionally, excessive consumption of Houttuynia cordata may cause gastrointestinal discomfort and other side effects, which can negatively impact health.
When consuming Houttuynia cordata to assist in regulating blood pressure, it is important to control the dosage and avoid excessive consumption. It should only be used as an adjunct method under the guidance of medical advice and cannot replace standard drug therapy.
