It is important to understand how blood circulation works. The blood that circulates through the arteries within the body supplies every cell with nourishment and oxygen. The force exerted by the heart pumps the blood into the large arteries and creates pressure within them. This is called blood pressure. A certain level of blood pressure is essential to keep blood circulating in the body. But when the pressure becomes too high, it results in hypertension, which is caused by a spasm or narrowing of the small blood vessels, known as capillaries, throughout the body. This narrowing puts more stress on the heart to pump blood through the blood vessels. Hence, the pressure of the blood to get through rises in proportion to the pressure on the heart. Faulty lifestyles The fast pace of life and mental and physical pressures caused by industrial and metropolitan environments give rise to psychological tensions. Worry and mental tension increases adrenaline in the blood stream and this, in turn, causes blood pressure to rise. Another important cause of hypertension is a faulty lifestyle - which includes excessive smoking, excessive intake of intoxicants like tea, coffee, alcohol, colas and refined foods - that prevent the expulsion of waste and poisonous matter from the body, clogging the arteries and veins. Repeated infections and inflammation in the kidneys can also give rise to hypertension. Kidneys play an important role in controlling blood pressure through secretion of Rennin, a natural chemical. If increased Rennin is secreted by the kidneys, more salts are retained in the body, leading to an increase in the volume of circulating blood and consequently an increase in blood pressure. I know it is the easy way out to pop a pill each morning, but this may temporarily reduce blood pressure, not cure the condition. Moreover, this is harmful in the ultimate analysis. Correct your lifestyle and find ways to de-stress. Try and follow a well-balanced routine of proper nutrition, yoga and rest. Getting to the root of any issue is the only way to truly and correctly solve it. If you insist on popping that pill and take no responsibility for your own health, you are asking for a life that involves more pathology than happiness.