Peppermint oil shown to cut systolic pressure after 20-day regimen
A two-week trial found that taking 100 µL of peppermint oil twice daily lowered systolic blood pressure by about 8.5 mmHg in adults with mild hypertension.
In a randomized controlled trial, the University of Lancashire tested the effect of peppermint oil on blood pressure in 40 adults aged 18 to 65 with pre-hypertension or stage-1 hypertension. Participants received 100 microliters of the oil twice a day for 20 days, while a control group took a peppermint-flavored placebo lacking the active oil. After the intervention, the oil group’s systolic blood pressure fell by an average of 8.5 mmHg, whereas the placebo group’s readings remained essentially unchanged.
Secondary measures such as diastolic pressure, heart rate, body composition, blood markers, mental well-being and sleep quality were also recorded, though the primary focus remained the systolic change. Lead author Jonnie Sinclair highlighted the potential of this inexpensive, calorie-free oil as an adjunct therapy for millions worldwide. The results appeared in the April 2026 issue of PLOS One, indicating a possible new, affordable option for managing mildly elevated blood pressure.
Why it matters
If confirmed, peppermint oil could offer a cheap, low-risk supplement for millions with mild hypertension.
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