Peppermint oil helps reduce blood pressure

The trial involved 40 volunteers aged 18 to 65 who had been diagnosed with pre-hypertension or stage 1 hypertension. The participants were randomly divided into two groups. The experimental group received 100 microliters of peppermint oil twice a day. The control group received a placebo with a similar taste but without any active ingredients.

The main measure was systolic (upper) blood pressure. At the end of the 20-day course, the group that took the active oil showed a decrease in systolic pressure by an average of 8.5 mmHg. No significant changes were observed in the placebo group. In addition to blood pressure, the researchers evaluated the participants’ heart rate, sleep quality, overall psychological well-being, and blood parameters.

The therapeutic effect of peppermint is attributed to its content of biologically active substances such as menthol and flavonoids. Dr. Johnny Sinclair, the lead author of the study, notes that hypertension is the leading preventable cause of death worldwide. The use of natural extracts helps to avoid the side effects that often accompany long-term use of synthetic medications.

Given the low cost and minimal calorie content of peppermint oil, it could become a widespread solution for preventing complications in millions of people. The researchers emphasize that this remedy is particularly effective in borderline conditions, where full-fledged medical treatment has not yet been prescribed but blood pressure levels require correction.