Researchers at the University of Lancashire have reported that peppermint oil may offer a simple and inexpensive way to reduce mildly elevated blood pressure, following the results of a new clinical study published in PLOS One.
The study found that participants who consumed 100 microlitres of peppermint oil twice daily for 20 days experienced an average reduction of 8.5 mmHg in systolic blood pressure, the upper figure in a blood pressure reading. The findings suggest peppermint oil could provide a well-tolerated intervention for people with pre-hypertension or stage 1 hypertension.
The trial involved 40 adults aged between 18 and 65 years who were randomly assigned to receive either peppermint oil or a peppermint-flavoured placebo. Participants taking the active treatment demonstrated significant reductions in systolic blood pressure, while those receiving the placebo showed no meaningful changes.
In addition to blood pressure measurements, researchers assessed body composition, blood biomarkers, diastolic blood pressure, heart rate, sleep quality and mental wellbeing. The most notable effect was observed in systolic blood pressure reduction among those receiving peppermint oil.
Lead author Dr Jonnie Sinclair, Reader in Sport and Health Sciences at the University of Lancashire, said the findings could have important public health implications. Hypertension remains one of the leading preventable risk factors for cardiovascular disease and premature mortality worldwide, placing a substantial burden on healthcare systems.
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Peppermint contains biologically active compounds including menthol and flavonoids, which are believed to contribute to its physiological effects. The researchers suggest these compounds may play a role in improving vascular function and lowering blood pressure, although further studies will be required to confirm the underlying mechanisms and assess long-term effectiveness.
While larger trials are needed before peppermint oil can be recommended as a routine treatment, the findings highlight the potential of low-cost nutritional interventions as complementary approaches to managing cardiovascular risk.
This news item has been summarised using AI and checked by humans before publication.
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