Everyone experiences an upset stomach at one time or another. An upset stomach, sometimes referred to as dyspepsia, can have a variety of causes. Certain medical conditions such as irritable bowel syndrome or stomach ulcer may lead to an upset stomach. Over-the-counter antacids may help relieve an upset stomach, however, as an alternative treatment, peppermint oil may also help. Speak with a doctor before using peppermint oil for an upset stomach.
Symptoms
Symptoms of an upset stomach can include burning or a painful feeling in the upper abdomen, abdominal bloating, gas, nausea and sometimes vomiting. According to the National Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse, if your upset stomach leads to bloody or black tarry stools, severe pain in your upper right abdomen or loss of appetite and weight loss, you should see a doctor for an evaluation as these symptoms may indicate a more serious condition.
Peppermint
Peppermint, also known as balm mint or brandy mint, is a hybrid of spearmint and water mint. It can be found growing as high as 3 feet tall in the moist soil of Europe and the eastern United States. When used medicinally, it can be act as an appetite stimulant, digestive aid and calmative. Peppermint oil works by increasing stomach acids, irritating mucous membranes and increasing mucous production. The oil of peppermint has been used to treat diarrhea, colic, gas and other mild digestive disorders.
Uses
Peppermint contains menthol and volatile oils that help calm and soothe smooth muscles such as those found in the stomach and the intestines. Peppermint may be used up to four times per day as a digestive aid and to ease an upset stomach. According to Medicinal Herb Info, three to four drops of peppermint on a sugar cube can be added to hot water to make a tea.
Warnings
Peppermint oil and other peppermint products should not be used for upset stomach if you have been diagnosed with gastrointestinal reflux disease or GERD. In addition, peppermint oil and other herbs should not be used by women who may be pregnant or breastfeeding. Peppermint oil can irritate the skin. If an allergic reaction develops, stop using peppermint oil immediately and see your doctor for an evaluation.
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