High blood pressure increases the risk of heart attacks, strokes, and cardiovascular disease, prompting researchers to seek simple and safe ways to help control it.
A new clinical trial suggests that peppermint oil may be a promising option, after its consumption was linked to a significant decrease in blood pressure over a short period.
Researchers in the United Kingdom conducted a trial involving 40 people aged between 18 and 65, all of whom were either in the pre-hypertension or early stage of hypertension.
Half of the participants received 50 microliters of pure peppermint oil mixed with 100 milliliters of water twice a day for 20 days, while the other half took a placebo.
The results showed that participants who took peppermint oil experienced an average decrease in systolic blood pressure, the top number in a blood pressure reading, of 8.48 mmHg compared to the placebo group.
Diastolic blood pressure, the lower number in the reading, also decreased by an average of 4.57 mmHg, while resting heart rate was about 8.92 beats per minute lower than in the other group, after statistical adjustments.
Researchers believe one possible explanation for this effect may be related to menthol, a compound found in mint. They think menthol may help relax blood vessels and improve blood flow, but this mechanism still needs further research to confirm.
Jonny Sinclair, a sports and health scientist from the University of Lancashire, said the study's findings were "very positive" and have important clinical implications, noting that high blood pressure is one of the most significant preventable risk factors associated with heart disease, metabolism, and death worldwide.
These findings come amid growing interest in non-pharmaceutical methods to help lower blood pressure. Dietary changes and exercise can help control it, but adhering to these measures can be difficult for some people. Blood pressure medications are also effective, but adherence to them can be challenging for some patients.
However, the researchers emphasize that the trial results are not yet sufficient to recommend the use of peppermint oil for treating high blood pressure. The study involved a limited number of participants, lasted only 20 days, and used a specific type of peppermint oil at a specific dosage.
Sinclair said that the low cost and ease of use of peppermint oil could make it an interesting option if future studies prove its effectiveness, noting the need for longer trials with larger numbers of participants, with regular monitoring of blood pressure.
Experts warn against using peppermint oil as a substitute for doctor-prescribed blood pressure medication, as the available evidence is still limited, and treatment should not be changed or medications stopped without medical advice.
The study results were published in the journal PLOS One.
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