Mapping Evidence-based Non-Pharmacological approaches to Hypertension: A PRISMA-ScR Review

Background: High blood pressure remains a key modifiable risk factor for cardiovascular events globally. Although pharmacotherapy has solid evidence, practical strategies such as diet, physical activity and mental relaxation are both inexpensive and safe, warranting further attention. Aim and Objectives: We sought to synthesise and present well-designed trials and individual cases that evaluate non-pharmacological methods for lowering blood pressure. Methods: Guided by PRISMA-SCR, we searched PubMed, Scopus and Google Scholar for freely available English-language publications ending January 2025. Eligible reports concerned adults with hypertension treated by non-drug measures. We recorded study design, sample size, intervention characteristics, control arms and monitored outcomes. Results: Searching approximately 200 documents returned, we included 10 samples nine typical RCT reports and a novel case study. Moderate-length yoga sessions, lasting 6 to 12 weeks and held between three and seven times weekly, produced systolic drops ranging from 2.9 to 16 percent. Short isometric handgrip routines (30-60 percent maximal pressure, administered three to five times weekly for 6 to 8 weeks) produced systolic blood reduction of 5 to 12 mmHg.