Synergistic Effect of Habbatussauda (Nigella sativa) and Amlodipine on Systolic Blood Pressure in Hypertension: Toward a Reduced-Dose Antihypertensive Strategy

Abstract

Background: Hypertension is the leading cause of cardiovascular disease and premature death worldwide. Amlodipine is one of the first line therapies that is effective in lowering blood pressure, but it has side effects that can affect patient adherence. Habbatussauda (Nigella sativa) is known to have antihypertensive properties through diuretic, antioxidant, and vasodilation mechanisms. This study aims to analyze the effectiveness of the combination of Habbatussauda with Amlodipin  in lowering blood pressure in hypertensive patients. Methods: This study is an analytical observational study with a cross-sectional design and a double-blind approach. The sample consisted of  30 hypertensive patients who were divided into two groups, namely the Amlodipine therapy group (n=15) and the combination therapy group of Habbatussauda with Amlodipine (n=15). Blood pressure data before and after therapy were analyzed using the Independent T-test with a significance level of p<0.05. Results: The results showed that the combination therapy group experienced a greater reduction in systolic blood pressure than the Amlodipine therapy group alone (15.66 mmHg vs. 5.6 mmHg, p=0.010). Meanwhile, diastolic blood pressure also decreased but showed no significant difference between groups (p=0.231). Conclusion: The combination of Habbatussauda with Amlodipine is more effective in lowering systolic blood pressure compared to single Amlodipine therapy. This combination therapy has the potential to reduce the required dose of Amlodipine as well as lower the risk of side effects associated with high doses of Amlodipine.