What supplements can raise your blood pressure? A comprehensive guide to understanding nutritional risks

October 25, 2025 •

4 min read

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, nearly half of all adults in the United States have hypertension. While many people focus on diet and exercise to manage blood pressure, fewer are aware of the risks associated with certain dietary supplements. This guide addresses the critical question: What supplements can raise your blood pressure?

Quick Summary

Several common dietary and herbal supplements, particularly those containing stimulants or high-potency ingredients, can significantly elevate blood pressure or interfere with medications. Understanding these risks is crucial for individuals with hypertension. Always consult a healthcare provider before adding new supplements to your regimen to ensure safety.

Key Points

Avoid Stimulant Herbs: Ephedra, bitter orange, and guarana contain powerful stimulants that can dangerously raise blood pressure and heart rate.
Beware of Licorice Root: High intake of licorice root can cause sodium retention and potassium loss, leading to elevated blood pressure.
Monitor Caffeine Intake: High doses of caffeine from supplements can cause a temporary spike in blood pressure, especially in non-habitual users.
Exercise Caution with Creatine: Creatine can cause water retention, which may lead to a slight, temporary increase in blood pressure in sensitive individuals.
Consult a Doctor Before Use: Always speak with a healthcare professional before taking new supplements, especially if you have hypertension or heart conditions, due to potential interactions and risks.
Excessive Vitamin D Can Be Risky: While deficiency is a risk factor, over-supplementation of Vitamin D can cause hypercalcemia, a condition that can increase blood pressure.

Supplements with Significant Blood Pressure Risks

For individuals with pre-existing hypertension or cardiovascular concerns, certain supplements pose a substantial risk of dangerously raising blood pressure. This occurs through various mechanisms, including acting as stimulants, affecting electrolyte balance, or interacting negatively with prescribed medications. Many of these products, unlike prescription drugs, are not tightly regulated by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), meaning their potency and safety can vary significantly. It is always recommended to consult with a healthcare professional before beginning any new supplement, especially if managing blood pressure is a concern.

Herbal Supplements to Watch Out For

Ephedra (Ma Huang): This herbal supplement contains ephedrine alkaloids, powerful stimulants that mimic the effects of adrenaline. It can dramatically increase heart rate and blood pressure, leading to serious cardiovascular events, and has been banned by the FDA in dietary supplements due to these risks.
Bitter Orange (Citrus Aurantium): Often used in weight loss and performance-enhancing supplements as a replacement for ephedra, bitter orange contains synephrine, which can increase blood pressure and heart rate. Studies have shown that even short-term use can significantly elevate blood pressure readings.
Licorice Root (Glycyrrhiza glabra): While often used to soothe digestive issues, licorice root contains a compound called glycyrrhizic acid. This can cause the body to retain sodium and lose potassium, a dangerous combination that can lead to increased blood pressure, especially with regular or high intake.
Yohimbe: Derived from the bark of an African tree, yohimbe is marketed for weight loss and sexual health. It acts as a stimulant and can dangerously raise blood pressure and heart rate by increasing the levels of the hormone norepinephrine, causing blood vessels to narrow.
Ginseng (Asian or Panax): The effect of Asian ginseng on blood pressure is controversial and can be unpredictable. While some studies suggest it may lower blood pressure, others indicate it can cause it to rise. Its variable effects make it a risky choice for those with hypertension.
Guarana: Found in many energy drinks and supplements, guarana contains high levels of caffeine. As a stimulant, it can cause a temporary, but potentially significant, spike in blood pressure, particularly in individuals who are not habitual caffeine consumers.

Other Supplements Affecting Blood Pressure

Beyond herbal remedies, some other supplements and compounds can also influence blood pressure levels.

Caffeine-Containing Supplements: Found in pills and energy formulas, concentrated caffeine can cause a short-term spike in blood pressure, especially in those not accustomed to regular use. The amount can vary widely, making it difficult to control intake.
High-Dose Vitamin D: While vitamin D deficiency is linked to hypertension, taking excessive amounts can have the opposite effect. This is because high doses can lead to a condition called hypercalcemia (excessive calcium in the blood), which can cause elevated blood pressure. Supplementation should always be managed under a doctor's supervision.
Creatine: A popular supplement for athletes, creatine causes water retention in muscles. This temporary increase in body water can lead to a slight rise in blood pressure in some sensitive individuals, especially during the initial loading phase. While generally considered safe for healthy people, those with hypertension should exercise caution.

Comparison of Supplements and Their Effects on Blood Pressure


Supplement	Primary Effect on Blood Pressure	Mechanism of Action	Special Considerations
Licorice Root	Can increase blood pressure	Contains glycyrrhizic acid, causing sodium retention and potassium loss.	Effect is dose-dependent; avoid in high amounts if hypertensive.
Bitter Orange	Can increase blood pressure	Contains synephrine, a stimulant that raises heart rate.	Potentially dangerous for those with cardiovascular issues.
Caffeine (High-Dose)	Can cause a temporary spike	Acts as a central nervous system stimulant.	Effect may be less pronounced in regular users.
Ephedra	Significantly increases blood pressure	Powerful stimulant containing ephedrine alkaloids.	Banned by the FDA in dietary supplements due to safety risks.
Creatine	May cause a temporary, slight increase	Causes water retention during the loading phase.	Generally safe for healthy individuals but caution is advised for those with hypertension.
Magnesium	Can lower blood pressure	Helps relax blood vessels and balance fluid levels.	Can interact with certain medications; consult a doctor.
Coenzyme Q10	Can lower blood pressure	Acts as an antioxidant, supporting vascular function.	Doses can vary; potential for drug interactions.

Making Safe Nutritional Choices

For those concerned about blood pressure, it's essential to prioritize a healthy diet rich in potassium, magnesium, and fiber, such as the DASH (Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension) diet. These are far safer and more effective for long-term blood pressure management than relying on unregulated supplements.

The Importance of Doctor Consultation

Before taking any new supplement, always discuss it with your healthcare provider. This is especially critical for individuals with high blood pressure, heart conditions, or those taking other medications. A doctor can assess potential risks, drug interactions, and recommend the best approach for your specific health needs. Furthermore, supplements can sometimes contain unlisted ingredients or inaccurate potencies, highlighting the importance of choosing products independently tested or certified by third-party organizations.

Conclusion: A Cautious Approach to Supplements

While some supplements are marketed for their health benefits, the evidence is clear that several, particularly certain herbal products and high-dose vitamins, can negatively impact blood pressure. Stimulants like ephedra, bitter orange, and guarana, alongside specific compounds in licorice root and creatine, can elevate blood pressure or interfere with medications. By prioritizing a balanced diet, consulting with a healthcare provider, and understanding the potential risks, you can make safer, more informed decisions about your nutritional and supplement regimen for better cardiovascular health.

Visit Verywell Health for more information on managing blood pressure and supplements.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, while a deficiency in Vitamin D is a risk factor for hypertension, excessive intake can cause hypercalcemia (excess calcium in the blood), which can lead to elevated blood pressure.

If you have pre-existing hypertension, it's best to consult a healthcare provider before using creatine. Creatine can cause temporary water retention, which may slightly increase blood pressure in some individuals.

Licorice root contains glycyrrhizic acid, which can cause the body to retain sodium and lose potassium. This electrolyte imbalance is known to increase blood pressure, especially with high or prolonged intake.

Bitter orange contains synephrine, a stimulant that can increase heart rate and blood pressure. It is often used in weight loss and athletic supplements and can pose a risk, particularly to those with cardiovascular issues.

Caffeine typically causes a short-term spike in blood pressure, especially in those who do not use it regularly. There is not enough evidence to definitively prove it causes a long-term rise in blood pressure, but caution is advised.

Yes, many herbal supplements, including ginseng, St. John's Wort, and others, can interact with and interfere with the effectiveness of prescribed blood pressure medications. Always inform your doctor about any supplements you are taking.

For healthy individuals, creatine is generally considered safe. However, its effect on blood pressure in people with pre-existing hypertension warrants caution, and a consultation with a doctor is recommended.