Peppermint Oil

Peppermint oil is derived from the peppermint plant which is a cross between water mint and spearmint that thrives in Europe and North America. It is commonly used as flavoring in foods and beverages and as a fragrance in soaps and cosmetics. Peppermint oil is also used for a variety of health conditions and can be taken orally in dietary supplements or used as a skin cream or ointment. Some evidence suggests that peppermint oil may help relieve symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome and indigestion. When used as directed, dietary supplements and skin preparations containing peppermint oil are likely safe for most adults. Peppermint oil may cause side effects such as heartburn and it may interact with certain medications.

Medicinal Uses of Peppermint Oil
In dietary supplements, peppermint oil has been tried for a variety of digestive problems including irritable bowel syndrome, indigestion and heartburn. Dietary supplements containing peppermint oil are also used by some people for the following conditions like nausea, vomiting, morning sickness, cramps of the upper gastrointestinal tract and bile ducts, diarrhea, gas, colds, coughs, sinus and respiratory infections, and menstrual problems. The antifungal properties of peppermint oil are well studied and it shows peppermint oil, when topically applied, can reduce the chances of fungal nail infection. Peppermint oil is very useful for hair care as it gives a cooling effect to the head, while removing dandruff and lice. It relieves headache, muscle pain, nerve pain, toothache, inflammation of the mouth, joint conditions, itchiness, allergic rash, bacterial and viral infections and repelling mosquitoes. In addition, peppermint oil vapor is sometimes inhaled to treat symptoms of colds and coughs.
Side Effects of Peppermint Oil
In most adults, the small doses of peppermint oil contained in dietary supplements and skin preparations appear to be safe. Pregnant and breastfeeding women, however, should avoid such products because little is known about their safety during pregnancy and lactation. Possible side effects of peppermint oil include heartburn, allergic reactions such as flushing, headache, and mouth sores and anal burning during bouts of diarrhea. Although enteric-coated peppermint oil capsules may reduce the risk of heartburn, their protective coating can break down more quickly and increase the risk of heartburn. Before taking peppermint oil, discuss the risks and benefits with your health care provider. Some supplements can interact with medicine. Interactions can be harmful or make medications not work as they should. Be cautious about combining peppermint oil with certain drugs because it may inhibit the body’s ability to metabolize the drugs and increase the risk of side effects.