Blood Pressure Study

The purpose of this project is to study the effects of homeopathic remedies on individuals showing the early signs of hypertension (high blood pressure). Their doctors have told them their blood pressure is elevated, but they do not need medications yet. This is a one month study involving laboratory EEG recordings; 24-hour monitoring of heart rate, blood pressure, and activity; weekly questionnaires about how you are feeling; an evaluation by an alternative medicine doctor of homeopathy; and two doses of an individually chosen homeopathic remedy on two different days in the laboratory. Compensation is provided!

Who can participate?

Males and Females between the ages of 45 and 75 who are right-handed.
Individuals who currently have been diagnosed with early or stage-1 hypertension, but whose doctors have not yet prescribed anti-hypertensive or blood pressure lowering medications.
Individuals who are managing their elevated blood pressure with diet and exercise at the recommendation of their doctor.
Individuals who live in the greater Tucson area

You may NOT participate if:

You are currently taking anti-hypertensive or blood pressure lowering medications
You have a history of anaphylactic shock, end-stage organ disease, or are undergoing active chemotherapy/radiation for cancer.
You are left-handed
You have stage-2 or higher hypertension (systolic > 160; diastolic > 100)

To participate, you would:

Participate in 5 laboratory sessions, scheduled at your convenience, to record EEG, heart rate, blood pressure, and mood, spaced over a 5 week period.
Have your blood pressure, heart rate and activity monitored for 24 hours
Fill out daily records of your physical symptoms, mood and activity levels
Undergo a full evaluation visit interview visit with a homeopathic physician
Take two individually chosen doses of homeopathy as recommended by the homeopath

What is homeopathy?
Homeopathy is a 200 year old system of complementary and alternative medicine originally developed and still used in Europe, in which medicines of animal, mineral, or plant origins are diluted in water and shaken multiple times reportedly to activate their healing properties. Homeopathic remedies are available over the counter and available at most health food stores.