Salicornia reduces blood pressure as a substitute for common salt

Original paper reference

• Original title: Randomized Pilot Study on the Effects of Sarcocornia as a Salt Substitute in Arterial Blood Pressure and Vascular Function in Healthy Young Adults
• Published in: Foods, 2022, 11(2888)
• DOI: 10.3390/foods11182888

Paper abstract

This randomized, double-blind clinical study evaluated the effects of using Salicornia perennis (Sarcocornia) powder as a substitute for common salt in 30 healthy young adults over 30 days. Participants were divided into two groups: one maintained their usual salt intake and the other used Salicornia in cooking.

The Salicornia group showed a significant reduction in systolic and diastolic blood pressure, as well as an improvement in arterial stiffness measured by pulse wave velocity (PWV). Additionally, there was a decrease in urinary sodium excretion, suggesting improved body sodium elimination. These results indicate that Salicornia may be a functional and healthy alternative to common salt, with the potential to reduce cardiovascular risk, even in young, healthy populations.

Key points

• Human clinical study (30 healthy young adults, 18–24 years old).
• Salt replacement with Salicornia powder for 30 days.
• Significant reduction in systolic and diastolic blood pressure.
• Improved arterial elasticity (reduced PWV).
• Reduction in urinary salt excretion, indicating a lower sodium load.
• No relevant adverse effects reported.
• Rich in minerals such as potassium, magnesium, and calcium, which support vascular health.
• Potential use in the formulation of low-sodium processed foods (bread, snacks, etc).