High blood pressure is one of the leading causes of cardiovascular disease worldwide, according to SciTechDaily.
Many people take medication to manage the condition, but treatment can be expensive and may cause side effects.
Researchers from the University of Central Lancashire have therefore investigated whether peppermint oil could serve as an alternative.
Peppermint contains natural compounds such as menthol and flavonoids, which may affect the body.
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A 20-day trial
The study, published in PLOS One, involved 40 adults aged between 18 and 65 with mildly elevated blood pressure. The participants were divided into two groups.
One group received peppermint oil daily for 20 days, while the other group received a placebo product without active ingredients.
During the trial, researchers monitored blood pressure, heart rate, sleep, and overall well-being.
Clear difference
The results showed that participants who received peppermint oil lowered their systolic blood pressure by an average of 8.5 mmHg.
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Systolic blood pressure is the top number in a blood pressure reading.
According to the researchers, only minor changes were observed in the placebo group.
They therefore believe peppermint oil could become a simple and affordable way to help people with mildly elevated blood pressure.
However, the researchers stress that more studies are needed before the treatment can be widely recommended.
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Sources: SciTechDaily and PLOS One.
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