The present invention is generally related to the discovery of the therapeutic benefit of administering &ggr;-tocopherol and &ggr;-tocopherol derivatives. More specifically, the use of &ggr;-tocopherol and racemic LLU-&agr;, (S)-LLU-&agr;, or &ggr;-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.