6 Supplements That May Raise Your Blood Pressure

Dietary supplements may be available over the counter, but that does not mean they are safe for everyone. Some can unexpectedly raise your blood pressure.

1. Licorice

Licorice root, from which the flavoring licorice is derived, is used as a dietary supplement for digestive issues, respiratory conditions, and to help improve energy.

Glycyrrhizic acid (GA) is a component of licorice that has been shown to raise blood pressure. GA can cause a condition called pseudohyperaldosteronism, which may lead to high blood pressure, hypokalemia (low potassium levels), and other complications such as irregular heart rhythms (arrhythmia) or cardiac arrest:

• In 2005, the World Health Organization (WHO) stated that consuming up to 100 milligrams (mg) daily of GA is unlikely to cause problems in most adults. Regular consumption of larger amounts can increase the risk.
• A 2024 study found that licorice had more significant effects in raising blood pressure than previously thought, even with a daily intake of 100 mg of GA.

Check with your healthcare provider before using a licorice supplement or consuming large amounts of products that contain GA.

2. Bitter Orange

Bitter orange (Citrus aurantium) is a dietary supplement commonly used for weight loss and to enhance sports performance.

After the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) banned the stimulant ephedra in the United States due to safety concerns, p-synephrine from bitter orange became a popular weight loss supplement. However, p-synephrine can raise blood pressure.

One study found that prolonged use of bitter orange significantly increased both systolic and diastolic blood pressure by about 6 millimeters of mercury (mm Hg) and 4 mm Hg, respectively. It can also increase heart rate, which can raise the risk of stroke and heart attack.

Research has found that bitter orange does not consistently help with weight loss. Because of these risks and unclear benefits, bitter orange is not recommended.

3. Guarana

Guarana can be found in dietary supplements and energy drinks. It contains caffeine and similar chemicals called theophylline and theobromine. Although popularly used for weight loss and athletic and mental performance (effectiveness of one’s cognitive function to complete tasks), it is not considered safe in large amounts.

The caffeine and related chemicals in guarana stimulate the brain, helping with alertness and energy. However, these chemicals can also raise blood pressure. For this reason, it’s important to check with your healthcare provider before using it.

4. Saint-John’s-Wort

This dietary supplement is most commonly used for depression or menopause symptoms, but it comes with risks.

Saint-John’s-wort is sometimes associated with serotonin syndrome, a potentially life-threatening condition caused by the buildup of serotonin in the brain. High blood pressure is one possible symptom of serotonin syndrome.

Serotonin syndrome is more likely to occur when Saint-John’s-wort is combined with antidepressants or other drugs that increase serotonin levels, such as triptans for migraine, dextromethorphan for coughs, or stimulants for attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). Check with your healthcare provider before using it.

5. Caffeine

Caffeine can increase energy and alertness and is found in energy drinks and certain dietary supplements, such as those that keep you alert and from falling asleep.

Caffeine is known to increase blood pressure. Experts recommend that people with high blood pressure limit or avoid caffeine for the following reasons:

• Heavy coffee intake (two or more cups per day, which is about 200 mg of caffeine) has been linked to a higher risk of heart-related death, but only in people with severely high blood pressure.
• Consuming over 400 mg of caffeine daily has been linked to increased blood pressure and heart rate over time.
• Consuming more than 600 mg daily has been linked to blood pressure and heart rates that stay elevated even after exercise and rest, which could raise the risk of heart disease.

Caffeine comes from many sources—not just supplements, but also energy drinks, coffee, and more. If you have high blood pressure or heart concerns, talk to your healthcare provider about how much caffeine is safe for you.

6. Yohimbe/Yohimbine

Yohimbe, which contains a compound called yohimbine, is a dietary supplement that people use for erectile dysfunction, athletic performance, weight loss, and to improve mood. However, there is no scientific evidence supporting its use.

Yohimbine has been associated with serious problems, including irregular heartbeat, high blood pressure, heart attacks, and seizures. These supplements have been banned in certain countries because of these risks.

When to Consult a Healthcare Provider on Supplement Safety

Many dietary supplements can increase blood pressure. Some supplements contain multiple ingredients, and even if just one affects blood pressure, it could still impact your health. To stay safe, always consult your healthcare provider before adding any supplement to your routine.