Aspirin is truly a wonder drug. It is well known that it is often prescribed for those prone to heart attack or stroke, but can aspirin lower high blood pressure? The answer appears to be a qualified yes. Under a set regimen it has been shown to help with prehypertension.

The best evidence for aspirin therapy as a way to reduce blood pressure comes from a 2008 study conducted by the University of Vigo’s Dr. Ramon C. Hermida. In this Spanish study, 244 adults with prehypertension (blood pressure just under 140/90) were divided into three groups and tested. One group relied on diet and exercise, the second group received aspirin in the morning, and the last group received aspirin during the night. Blood pressure was monitored regularly before the test and the group was tested again three months after the testing was finished. The group receiving the night time dosage had systolic pressure drop more than 5 points and diastolic pressure fall by more than 3 points. The other two groups had no noticeable change.

Dr. Hermida has speculated on why the aspirin therapy proved more effective at night. One theory is the body absorbs the medicine better at night. The production of hormones responsible for clotting the blood may also be slowed by the aspirin, thus helping to reduce pressure.

Although these results are very positive and demonstrate that aspirin can help control high blood pressure, this is still a small study. Hopefully, it will lead to more advanced studies given the initial results were so promising. Unfortunately, it is not a miracle cure. Many people have an allergic reaction to aspirin. Others may experience bleeding, stomach pain, or a rapid heartbeat. Obviously, any person interested in reducing the chances for hypertension should consult a physician before attempting any aspirin therapy.

Proper nutrition and exercise are still the best method for controlling and preventing hypertension, which can lead to heart attack or stroke, but any additional boost to the body may prove to save lives. Aspirin does lower blood pressure and for those interested in learning more about its benefits and risks, they can be found at the U.S. National Library of Medicine.