Effects and Safety of Menthol on Blood Pressure and Metabolic Parameters in Prehypertensive and Mild Hypertensive Patients
Status:
Completed
Trial end date:
2013-08-30
Target enrollment:
Participant gender:
Summary
Prehypertension and mild hypertension are associated with an increased risk of
atherosclerosis and coronary artery disease, and often complicated with the metabolic
disorder of glucose and lipid. The comprehensive prevention of hypertension is still an
important and complex clinical issue. Peppermint is a popular flavoring agent, and peppermint
tea help relax tension and could lower blood pressure. The effect of oral peppermint on blood
pressure is not consistent, however, our previous animal study has shown that oral
administration of menthol, the main component of peppermint, could reduce 24-hour mean
arterial systolic and diastolic blood pressure in spontaneous hypertensive rats. Furthermore,
menthol increases uncoupling protein(UCP)1 dependent thermogenesis and energy expenditure
through transient receptor potential melastatin(TRPM)8 activation, and helps prevent obesity
and metabolic disorders. In a prospective, double-blind, randomized, and parallel-group
study, we will evaluate the effects of DANSHU capsule(menthol) on blood pressure and
metabolic parameters in prehypertensive and mild hypertensive patients. This study will help
develop future comprehensive prevention and treatment strategies for hypertension.