Not yet recruitingNAINTERVENTIONAL

Effects of a Brown Seaweed Tart Cherry Blend in Mild-moderate Hypertension

This research is investigating if a special mix of brown seaweed and tart cherries can help people with mild to moderate high blood pressure. Both seaweed and tart cherries are naturally rich in helpful substances that have been shown to have good effects on our bodies, like protecting cells and helping blood vessels relax. These ingredients have been studied before individually, but this is the first time they're being tested together in a blend for blood pressure. High blood pressure is a significant health concern in the UK, affecting millions of people and increasing the risk of serious problems like heart disease and strokes. Finding natural ways to help manage it, especially for those who don't yet need strong medicines, could be very valuable. This study aims to see if this natural blend can make a positive difference in blood pressure and other heart health markers.

At a glance

Status

Not yet recruiting

Phase

Sponsor

University of Central Lancashire

Enrolment target

Start

01 May 2025

Estimated completion

01 Jul 2026

Hypertension

What is this study about?

This study is looking at a natural way to help people with blood pressure that's a bit higher than ideal, but not yet severe. It's focused on a special blend made from brown seaweed and tart cherries. Both these natural foods are packed with beneficial substances like antioxidants, which protect our cells, and ingredients that can help reduce inflammation and relax blood vessels – all things that can be helpful for keeping our hearts healthy and blood pressure in check.

High blood pressure is a very common health issue in the UK. It affects a lot of people and is a major reason why some develop serious health problems like heart attacks and strokes. While there are many good medicines for high blood pressure, sometimes people are looking for other options, perhaps before starting medication or if they're looking for natural support. This study is exploring if a natural dietary approach, using this combination of seaweed and tart cherry, could be a safe and effective option.

Researchers are particularly interested in seeing if this blend can improve things like blood pressure readings and other measures of heart health in people who have mild to moderate high blood pressure, and who are not currently taking blood pressure medicines.

Key takeaways

This study explores a natural brown seaweed and tart cherry blend for slightly high blood pressure.
It aims to find new, gentler ways to support heart health.
Participation involves taking a supplement (or placebo) and having health checks.
You won't know if you're taking the active blend or a dummy pill.
It's for adults aged 18-65 with mild-moderate high blood pressure, not on medication.

Who may be eligible?

This study is looking for adults aged between 18 and 65 years old. To be able to take part, your blood pressure needs to be a little high – specifically, your 'top' number (systolic) should be between 120 and 139 mmHg. It's important that you are not currently taking any prescribed medication to manage your blood pressure. You also need to be able to fill out questionnaires on your own and agree to take part.

There are some reasons why you might not be able to join. For example, if you have diabetes or heart disease, you won't be eligible. Pregnant or breastfeeding women also can't take part. If you're allergic to peppermint or regularly use peppermint products or other antioxidant supplements, you shouldn't join. Also, if your Body Mass Index (BMI) is over 40, or you're already in another research study, you won't be suitable.

Could this study suit you?

Answer these quick questions to see if you may be eligible. This is a guide only — the research team makes the final call.

Are you between 18 and 65 years old?
Is your top blood pressure number between 120 and 139 mmHg?
Are you NOT currently taking medication for high blood pressure?
Do you NOT have diabetes or heart disease?
Are you NOT pregnant or breastfeeding?
Are you NOT allergic to peppermint or regularly using peppermint products/antioxidant supplements?

Answer every question to see your result.

What does participation involve?

This is a pilot, or 'feasibility', study, which means it's a smaller study to see if the approach is promising and practical for future, larger research. If you decide to take part, you would be given either the brown seaweed and tart cherry blend or a dummy pill (placebo). You wouldn't know which one you were receiving, nor would the research team. You would need to take this for a certain period, and during that time, you'd likely have a few visits to the research clinic. At these visits, doctors and nurses would measure your blood pressure and possibly collect blood samples to check other markers related to your heart health. You would also fill out questionnaires about your health. The total duration of your involvement in the study would be explained to you before you agree to take part.

Potential risks and benefits

Taking part in a study like this could offer potential benefits, such as closely monitoring your blood pressure and heart health by healthcare professionals. While this blend is made from natural ingredients, there's a chance you might experience some mild side effects, as with any supplement; these would be fully explained to you. It's also possible that the blend might not bring about any changes in your blood pressure. Remember, you have the right to withdraw from the study at any time, for any reason, without it affecting your medical care.

Locations (1)

Some site locations are approximate. We're improving this — please verify with the trial team before travelling.

University of Central Lancashire
Verified postcode
Preston, United Kingdom

Common questions

What is 'mild-moderate hypertension'?

It means your blood pressure is a bit higher than normal, but not yet in the severe range that usually requires strong medication.

What is a 'placebo'?

A placebo is a dummy treatment that looks just like the real supplement but doesn't contain the active ingredients. It helps researchers see if the real blend makes a difference.

Are brown seaweed and tart cherries safe?

Both are natural food items. However, like any food or supplement, they can cause reactions in some people. Any known risks will be discussed with you.

Will I know if I'm taking the real supplement or the placebo?

No, this is a 'blinded' study, meaning neither you nor the research team will know who is getting the active blend and who is getting the placebo until the study ends.

What does 'cardiometabolic parameters' mean?

These are different measures linked to your heart health and metabolism, such as blood pressure, cholesterol levels, and blood sugar.

How to find out more

Jonathan Sinclair, PhD, DSc

jksinclair@uclan.ac.uk 07875651533 Official trial record

Always speak to your GP or specialist before deciding to take part in a study.