Research indicates that buckwheat may have the ability to act as an ACE inhibitor and may also have the power to act as a vasodilator

A study titled “Latent production of angiotensin I-converting enzyme inhibitors from buckwheat protein” published in the Journal of Peptide Science reported on the observed ACE inhibiting properties of buckwheat. Man-made ACE Inhibitors are a very popular class of medical drugs (Lisinopril is one example) for treating hypertension. The goal of Angiotensin-Converting Enzyme (ACE) Inhibitors is to keep the angiotensin converting enzyme (ACE) from initiating a process that eventually creates angiotensin II. Since angiotensin II causes vasoconstriction (narrowed arteries), sympathetic activity and ultimately sodium retention, prohibiting the creation of ACE can often lead to lower blood pressure.

Another study published in 2008 focused on buckwheat and vasodilatation. The study, titled “Endothelium-dependent vasorelaxation effect of rutin-free tartary buckwheat extract in isolated rat thoracic aorta”, reported that they observed endothelium-dependant vasorelaxation caused by buckwheat consumption. The endothelium is the lining in the arteries and when dysfunctional it plays a large role in the development of high blood pressure, and if this study’s observations reflect reality, then buckwheat could help ensure that the endothelium behaves properly.

For more information see:

“Endothelium-dependent vasorelaxation effect of rutin-free tartary buckwheat extract in isolated rat thoracic aorta.” by Ushida Y, Matsui T, Tanaka M, Matsumoto K, Hosoyama H, Mitomi A, Sagesaka Y, Kakuda T. J Nutr Biochem. 2008 Oct;19(10):700-7. Epub 2008 Mar 6. Can be viewed online at http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/18328684?dopt=Abstract

“Latent production of angiotensin I-converting enzyme inhibitors from buckwheat protein.” by Li CH, Matsui T, Matsumoto K, Yamasaki R, Kawasaki T. J Pept Sci. 2002 Jun;8(6):267-74. Can be viewed online at http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/12093003.