The present invention relates to methods and compositions effective in loweringblood pressure. The compositions comprise, as active ingredients, an effectiveamount of a combination of lycopene and a carotenoid, e.g., lutein. In a preferredembodiment, the lycopene and lutein together provide a synergistic therapeuticeffect at lowering blood pressure. The compositions can further comprise additionalagents such as carotenoids and other phytochemicals found in tomato oleoresin.