Beneficial Effects of Passiflora edulis on Blood Pressure and Reduction of Oxidative Stress

Abstract

Objective: To evaluated the effect of consuming P. edulis juice on blood pressure, activity of the Angiotensin-Converting Enzyme (ACE), and antioxidant capacity in hypertensive patients. Methods/Statistical Analysis: The study included two groups of patients, one received Passiflora. edulis (P. edulis) juice (2 g/day, in 2 ml) during four weeks and the other did not. To determine if differences exist among the results found for each group, parametric or non-parametric test were used. Findings: This intervention reduced systolic and diastolic pressure (142.4 to 125.2 mmHg and 79 to 76.1 mmHg, respec- tively) compared to the group not intervened (139.5 to 134.9 and 89.7 to 84.0 mmHg, respectively), (p < 0.05); in addition, higher anti oxidative capacity was found of the serum for the group intervened. Contrary to expectations, ACE increased in these patients. Application/Improvements: P. edulis juice diminished blood pressure and oxidative stress of patients who consumed it; however, the mechanisms through which both effects occur must be studied.