The effect of Rosmarinus officinalis L infusion supplementation on blood pressure among healthy volunteers and grade 1 hypertensive patients

Background

Rosmarinus officinalis L, has been traditionally used to manage various ailments. Preclinical trials have reported the antihypertensive effect of the bioactive compounds in rosemary. However, clinical studies on its effects on hypertension are lacking.

Objective

This study aimed to explore the efficacy, safety, and tolerability of a 45-day administration of rosemary infusion in both healthy participants and individuals with grade 1 hypertension.

Methods

A total of 18 healthy subjects and 35 grade 1 hypertensive patients were enrolled and instructed to consume a daily infusion prepared by steeping 2 g of powdered rosemary leaves in 100 ml of boiled water. The study was completed by 15 healthy participants and 30 hypertensive patients. Baseline and post-intervention clinical and biochemical parameters, such as systolic blood pressure (SBP), diastolic blood pressure (DBP), mean blood pressure (MBP), heart rate (HR), and pulse pressure (PP), were measured using ambulatory blood pressure monitoring (MBP).

Results

In the hypertensive group, rosemary infusion consumption over 45 days led to a significant reduction in 24-h SBP (P = 0.005), DBP (P = 0.003), daytime SBP and DBP (P = 0.003 and P = 0.002, respectively), MBP (P = 0.003), and Nocturnal SBP dipping (P = 0.04). In contrast, no significant changes in SBP or DBP were observed among healthy participants. Biochemical safety assessments showed no significant differences between baseline and post-intervention values for both groups. Additionally, no adverse effects were reported, further supporting the safety and efficacy of rosemary infusion.

Conclusion

This preliminary trial allowed the exploration of the effectiveness of rosemary infusion in reducing SBP and DBP in hypertensive patients with grade 1 hypertension over a 45-day period.