Is the effect of Gastrodia (Tianma) in lowering blood pressure good?
Disease description:
The elderly in the family have high blood pressure, chest tightness, shortness of breath, and palpitations; even going up and down stairs is difficult. Is Gastrodia effective in lowering blood pressure?
Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Zhang Xiuhong
Gastrodia elata, as a traditional Chinese medicine, has certain effects in lowering blood pressure. However, the antihypertensive effect of Gastrodia elata may vary among individuals, and its potency is generally mild.
Its effects are mainly attributed to active ingredients it contains, such as gastrodin. Compounds in Gastrodia elata, including gastrodin and gastrodigenin, have certain vasodilatory effects, improve microcirculation, and reduce peripheral vascular resistance, thereby helping to lower blood pressure. Gastrodia elata also possesses sedative, anticonvulsant, and antispasmodic properties, which can alleviate tension, anxiety, and other emotional states, thus contributing to blood pressure reduction.
For patients with more severe hypertension, it is recommended to use professional antihypertensive medications under a doctor's guidance, along with healthy lifestyle habits and dietary adjustments to control blood pressure. Patients currently taking other antihypertensive medications should be cautious about possible drug interactions to avoid hypotension-induced adverse reactions. Gastrodia elata cannot cure hypertension completely and should only be used as an adjunctive therapy. Medication should be used rationally according to individual conditions.
