Peppermint favoring is found in edibles such as candy, ice cream and tea. The volatile oil extracted from the leaves of the peppermint plant cannot be considered entirely harmless, however, states the University of Michigan Health System. Diluted peppermint preparations such as your cup of nightly tea are far safer for consumption than peppermint oil itself, which must be used with caution.
Properties & Preparations
Menthol and menthone are active constituents of peppermint oil, which is derived from the plant's leaves, according to the University of Michigan Health System. Peppermint oil is considered to have carminative properties in that it relieves symptoms of gas, bloating (symptoms of indigestion). The University of Maryland Medical Center (UMMC) states that a popular peppermint preparation is tea, which is widely available at most markets. Peppermint is also available in liquid forms, such as tinctures and essential oils, as well as enteric-coated capsules that contain peppermint oil and topical preparations, such as creams and ointments.
Common Uses
Peppermint oil capsules are used to reduce symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), including gas, bloating and diarrhea. The oil can also be applied to the temples for tension headaches. Topical preparations can be applied to the skin to address irritation. Integrative physician Dr. Andrew Weil suggests peppermint chest rubs to clear up nasal congestion associated with the common cold.
General Safety
The National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine states that a small amount of peppermint oil is considered safe for adults. Side effects may include heartburn and an allergic reaction. The UMMC indicates that peppermint tea, perhaps the safest way to use peppermint, can be consumed even in large quantities and include up to five cups daily.
Enteric-coated capsules for IBS are taken two to three times daily. However, it's unwise to consume peppermint oil directly, as large amounts can lead to toxicity, cautions the UMMC, which goes on to point out that purified menthol is poisonous. Peppermint tinctures and peppermint oil are not the same, as peppermint tincture contains only 10 percent peppermint oil and a small amount of the leaf extract in an alcohol base.
Considerations
Do not give peppermint to babies or small children as Dr. Weil indicates it could cause them to gag. Do not apply peppermint oil directly to a child's skin, which could result in severe breathing problems. The UMMC states that pregnant women should avoid all forms of peppermint; however, Weil states that peppermint tea is safe during pregnancy when used in small quantities of no more than three cups a day. Additionally, peppermint tea may worsen heartburn, which occurs during late pregnancy.
Other Safety Concerns
You may not want to take enteric-coated peppermint oil capsules at the same time as an antacid, as you may experience more heartburn and nausea, cautions NCCAM. Don't use peppermint if you have a chronic type of indigestion called gastrointestinal reflux disease, warns the University of Michigan Health System. Until you speak with your doctor, avoid peppermint tea and oil if you have severe liver damage, gallstones or inflammation of the gallbladder, or if your bile ducts are obstructed.
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