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Many nonpharmacologic (behavioral) techniques are being proposed for the therapy of essential hypertension. The research in this area is reviewed and divided roughly into two categories: the biofeedback and relaxation methodologies. While feedback can be used to lower pressures during laboratory training sessions, studies designed to alter basal blood pressure levels with biofeedback have not yet been reported. The absence of evidence for such changes through biofeedback limits the usefulness of this technique in hypertension control. The various relaxation methods, such as yoga, transcendental meditation, progressive muscle relaxation, and others have shown more promise. With varying degrees of experimental vigor, many of these techniques have been associated with long-lasting changes in blood pressure. The strengths and weaknesses of the various authors' research designs, data and conclusions are discussed, and suggestions for further experimentation are offered.

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The effect of LiCl poisoning on subsequent NaCl preference was studied in groups of adrenalectomized and sham-adrenalectomized rats having prior experience with either (a) preoperative LiCl, (b) postoperative NaCl, (c) both preoperative LiCl and postoperative NaCl, or (d) neither of these experiences. Sham-operated rats exposed to LiCl consistently avoided NaCl; adrenalectomized subjects did not. The deaths of 21 adrenalectomized rats were attributed to the increased toxicity of LiCl for these animals coupled with an increased tendency for them to drink it. No differences were found between groups of adrenalectomized rats which had tasted LiCl and groups which had had it stomach-loaded. It was concluded that adrenalectomized rats regulate their salt intake on the basis of need alone.