The present invention is generally related to the discovery of the therapeutic benefit of administering .gamma.-tocopherol and .gamma.-tocopherol derivatives. More specifically, the use of .gamma.-tocopherol and racemic LLU-.alpha., (S)-LLU-.alpha., or .gamma.-tocopherol derivatives as antioxidants and nitrogen oxide scavengers which treat and prevent high blood pressure, thromboembolic disease, cardiovascular disease, cancer, natriuretic disease, the formation of neuropathological lesions, and a reduced immune system response are disclosed.