Diana M. Valenzuela-Bernal, Facultad de Medicina, Maestría en Medicinas Alternativas, Universidad Nacional de Colombia, Bogotá, Colombia
Mauricio A. Ángel-Macías, Méderi Hospital Universitario Mayor, Escuela de Medicina y Ciencias de la Salud Universidad del Rosario, Bogotá, Colombia
Javier Moreno, Clínica Reina Sofía , Sociedad Colombiana de Cardiología y Cirugía Cardiovascular, Bogotá, Colombia
Nancy Yomayusa, Instituto Global de Excelencia Clínica Keralty, Grupo de Investigación Traslacional, Fundación Universitaria Sanitas, Bogotá, Colombia
Liliana I. Barrero, Instituto Global de Excelencia Clínica Keralty, Grupo de Investigación Traslacional, Fundación Universitaria Sanitas, Bogotá, Colombia
Francy T. Cruz-Cantor, Instituto Global de Excelencia Clínica Keralty, Grupo de Investigación Traslacional, Fundación Universitaria Sanitas, Bogotá, Colombia
Ma. Paula Gutiérrez, Instituto Global de Excelencia Clínica Keralty, Grupo de Investigación Traslacional, Fundación Universitaria Sanitas, Bogotá, Colombia
Juan R. Acevedo, Instituto Global de Excelencia Clínica Keralty, Grupo de Investigación Traslacional, Fundación Universitaria Sanitas, Bogotá, Colombia
Lina S. Morón-Duarte, Instituto Global de Excelencia Clínica Keralty, Grupo de Investigación Traslacional, Fundación Universitaria Sanitas, Bogotá, Colombia
This study aimed to evaluate the efficacy of nonpharmacological interventions beyond the known and effective lifestyle interventions, as an adjunct to the treatment of adult patients with hypertension, a significant risk factor for fatal cardiovascular diseases. The evaluated interventions included alternative therapies, like traditional Chinese medicine and acupuncture (three studies), mind-body therapy (10 studies) and dietetic/nutraceutical supplements (10 studies). The results suggest that some of these therapies may be promising adjuncts to antihypertensive treatment. Among the mentioned therapies, auricular acupressure, tai chi, yoga, qigong and meditation stand out. In addition, certain nutraceuticals and phytotherapeutic agents like omega-3 fatty acids, coenzyme Q10, vitamin C, probiotics, resveratrol, soy isoflavones, garlic extract and extra virgin olive oil may be recommended as part of a healthy diet, like the Mediterranean or DASH diet, known for its impact on cardiovascular risk. In conclusion, as far as public policies aimed at the comprehensive treatment of chronic noncommunicable diseases are concerned, these therapies, as part of nonpharmacological management, can effectively complement hypertension treatment, providing patients with additional options for controlling their blood pressure and improving their cardiovascular health. However, more research is needed to confirm their long-term efficacy and safety.
Keywords: Alternative medicine. Hypertension. Traditional Chinese medicine. Acupuncture. Mind-body therapies. Dietary supplements. Nutraceuticals.
