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Information on Peppermint Oil

Mar 28, 2011 | By Kimberly Riggins

Peppermint and peppermint oil can be found in everything from food such as ice cream and tea to beauty products such as shampoo and soap. This versatile herb and essential oil can also be used medicinally. Due to its antiviral, antibacterial properties and its ability to calm and numb, peppermint oil may be effective in the treatment of headaches, nausea, indigestion, irritable bowel syndrome, respiratory issues, stomach discomfort, anxiety and menstrual cramps.

About Peppermint Oil

Peppermint, or Mentha piperita, is a hybrid between water mint and spearmint. It grows throughout North America and Europe and is most popular for its flavor and scent. Peppermint oil is the distilled extract from the peppermint plant and contains the active compound menthol. Both the herb and the oil are rich in minerals and nutrients that include magnesium, calcium, manganese, folate, potassium, iron, copper, vitamins A and C and omega-3 fatty acids. Peppermint oil can be found in tinctures, extracts, enteric-coated capsules, creams, ointments and lotions.

Digestive Issues

Peppermint has long been known to help treat digestive issues such as IBS, stomach discomfort, diarrhea, flatulence and bloating, states the University of Maryland Medical Center. In a study published in the April 2007 issue of "American Family Physician," researchers found that peppermint leaf and peppermint oil, especially in the form of enteric-coated capsules, were effective in treating irritable bowel syndrome. It was also proved that peppermint oil combined with caraway oil helped improve non-ulcer dyspepsia or upset stomach and a peppermint oil enema was effective in treating a spastic colon. In another study performed in 2010 and published in the May issue of "Digestive Diseases and Sciences," clinicians confirmed that peppermint oil was an effective treatment for IBS. During this double-blind study, participants were given either an enteric-coated peppermint oil capsule or a placebo three times per day for 8 weeks. After the 8 weeks, participants who ingested the capsule found a significant improvement in their abdominal pain and discomfort, the severity in their pain and an overall better quality of life compared to those who took the placebo.

Respiratory Issues

Due to peppermint's most active compound menthol, it may be an effective decongestant, expectorant and treatment for pharyngitis or sore throat. It may also be effective in helping nasal congestion, asthma and sinusitis. In a study published in the July issue of the "Journal of Ethnopharmacology," peppermint oil was found to have anti-inflammatory, antispasmodic, anti-congestive, and expectorant properties. During this study, approximately 100 to 300 micrograms of peppermint oil provided a relaxant effect on the trachea of rats, proving its soothing and calming qualities on the respiratory system yet again.

Side Effects

Peppermint oil, when used in small, controlled doses appears to be safe for most individuals. Minor side effects could include allergic reactions and heartburn. If you suffer from gastroesphageal reflux disease, a hiatal hernia, or gallstones, avoid using peppermint or any of its derivatives because it can make the condition worse. It is also suggested that pregnant women and those that are breastfeeding be aware of peppermint and stay away from it unless it is first discussed with a physician. Always talk to a doctor before consuming peppermint if you are taking any prescription medications such as cycloporine, antacids such as cimetidine and omeprazole, diabetes medications and blood pressure drugs.

References

Article reviewed by Greg Duran Last updated on: Mar 28, 2011

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