Peppermint oil linked to lower blood pressure in just 20 days
High blood pressure increases the risk of heart attacks, strokes and cardiovascular disease, prompting researchers to explore simple and safe ways to help control it.
The new clinical trial involved 40 people aged 18 to 65, all of whom had either elevated blood pressure or stage 1 hypertension.
Half of the participants took 50 microliters of pure peppermint oil mixed with 100 milliliters of water twice a day for 20 days, while the other half received a placebo.
Participants who took peppermint oil experienced an average reduction of 8.48 millimeters of mercury (mmHg) in systolic blood pressure—the upper number in a blood pressure reading—compared with the placebo group.
Diastolic blood pressure, the lower number, also fell by an average of 4.57 mmHg. After statistical adjustments, resting heart rate was about 8.92 beats per minute lower among those who received peppermint oil.
Researchers suggest that menthol, a compound found in peppermint, could partly explain the effect. Menthol may help relax blood vessels and improve blood flow, although this potential mechanism requires further investigation.
Johnny Sinclair, a sports and health scientist at the University of Lancashire, described the findings as “very positive” and said they could have important clinical implications. High blood pressure is one of the leading preventable risk factors for cardiovascular and metabolic diseases and premature death worldwide.
The findings come amid growing interest in non-drug approaches to blood pressure management. Dietary changes and regular exercise can help control blood pressure, although maintaining these lifestyle changes can be challenging for some people. Blood pressure medications are also effective, but adherence can be difficult for some patients.
More Research Needed
Despite the promising results, researchers say the trial is not sufficient to recommend peppermint oil as a treatment for high blood pressure.
The study involved only a small number of participants and lasted just 20 days. It also tested a specific type and dose of peppermint oil.
Sinclair said the low cost and ease of use of peppermint oil could make it an interesting option if future studies confirm its effectiveness. However, larger and longer-term clinical trials with regular blood pressure monitoring are needed.
Experts also caution against using peppermint oil as a substitute for prescribed blood pressure medication. Current evidence remains limited, and patients should not change or stop their medication without consulting a healthcare professional.
