Peppermint Oil May Lower Blood Pressure in 20 Days, Study Finds

A study by the University of Lancashire suggests that a daily dose of peppermint oil could significantly lower high blood pressure. Researchers found that consuming 100 microliters of peppermint oil twice a day for 20 days reduced systolic blood pressure by an average of 8.5 mmHg.

The findings, published in PLOS One, indicate that peppermint oil offers a simple, economical, and well-tolerated approach for those with mildly elevated blood pressure. Lead author Dr. Jonny Sinclair noted that high blood pressure is a leading cause of heart disease and death worldwide, with substantial economic costs associated with its management.

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peppermint oil could be a simple, economical, and well-tolerated option for people with slightly elevated blood pressure.

While medications are common, their long-term effectiveness and potential side effects are not always clear. Peppermint contains natural compounds like menthol and flavonoids. The study involved 40 adults aged 18-65, randomly assigned to receive either peppermint oil or a placebo. The group taking peppermint oil showed improved blood pressure, while the placebo group saw no significant change.

Beyond systolic pressure, researchers examined physical measurements, blood test results, diastolic pressure, heart rate, mental well-being, and sleep quality. Dr. Sinclair described the results as "particularly positive" with significant clinical implications, given that hypertension is the most common modifiable risk factor for cardiometabolic diseases and a leading cause of global mortality. He highlighted peppermint oil's low cost and calorie count as potential advantages for a widely accessible solution.

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particularly positive