Researchers at the University of Central Lancashire found that peppermint oil lowered systolic blood pressure in a small randomized trial, though larger studies are needed to confirm long-term effects.
By yourNEWS Media Newsroom
Peppermint oil may help lower blood pressure in adults with mildly elevated readings, according to a new clinical trial that found measurable reductions after 20 days of daily use.
Researchers at the University of Central Lancashire reported that participants who took 100 microliters of peppermint oil twice a day experienced an average systolic blood pressure reduction of 8.5 millimeters of mercury. The findings, published in PLOS One, involved adults with prehypertension and stage 1 hypertension.
The randomized controlled trial included 40 adults between the ages of 18 and 65. Participants were divided into two groups, with one receiving peppermint oil and the other receiving a peppermint-flavored placebo that did not contain active oil. Blood pressure reductions were observed only among those who received the genuine peppermint oil treatment, according to the study.
Researchers evaluated multiple health markers during the trial, including systolic and diastolic blood pressure, heart rate, body measurements, blood test results, mental well-being and sleep quality. The study was designed as a double-blind trial, meaning neither participants nor researchers knew which group received the active treatment during the testing period.
The report said peppermint’s effects may be linked to bioactive compounds such as menthol and flavonoids. Menthol has been studied for its ability to relax smooth muscle tissue in blood vessel walls, which may help arteries dilate and reduce pressure inside the circulatory system.
Lead author Dr. Jonnie Sinclair, a reader in sport and health sciences at the university, noted that high blood pressure remains a major contributor to heart disease and death worldwide. The report said prescription medications are widely used but may cause side effects that affect patient adherence.
The blood pressure reduction reported in the trial is considered clinically meaningful for people with mildly elevated readings. For adults with prehypertension, a reduction of that size could help reduce the risk of progression to hypertension. For those with stage 1 hypertension, the findings suggest peppermint oil may warrant further study as a supportive option.
High blood pressure affects an estimated 1.28 billion adults worldwide, according to the World Health Organization. Because the condition often produces no obvious symptoms until damage has occurred, it is commonly referred to as “the silent killer.” Untreated hypertension can increase the risk of heart attack, stroke, kidney failure and vision loss.
The report said the low cost and broad availability of peppermint oil could make it especially relevant for populations with limited access to health care. It also noted that natural blood pressure strategies often include diet changes, reduced sodium intake, physical activity, stress management and limits on alcohol and caffeine.
Peppermint has been used in traditional medicine for centuries, including in Greek, Roman and Chinese practices. Historical use of aromatic plants for circulatory and digestive concerns has continued into modern herbal medicine, though many botanical remedies have lacked the type of clinical testing required for conventional medical recommendations.
The study’s authors said the results are promising but preliminary. The trial included only 40 participants and lasted less than one month, limiting conclusions about long-term safety and effectiveness.
Common blood pressure medications such as ACE inhibitors, beta blockers and diuretics can reduce systolic pressure but may also produce side effects including dizziness, fatigue, electrolyte imbalances or kidney-related complications. The report stated that peppermint oil was well tolerated during the short trial period, but researchers said larger studies are needed before it can be considered a standard treatment option.
Patients currently taking blood pressure medication should consult a healthcare provider before changing or combining treatments. The findings suggest peppermint oil may merit further investigation as an affordable, plant-based approach for adults with mildly elevated blood pressure, but the study does not establish it as a replacement for prescribed care.
Source: Natural News
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