Peppermint (Mentha piperita)

Photo copyright Steven Foster  

Part used and where grown: Peppermint is a hybrid of water mint and spearmint and was first cultivated near London in 1750. Peppermint grows almost everywhere. The two main cultivated forms are the black mint, which has violet-colored leaves and stems and a relatively high oil content, and the white mint, which has pure green leaves and a milder taste. The leaves are used.

In what conditions might peppermint be supportive?

• gingivitis (periodontal disease)

• headache (tension)

• irritable bowel syndrome

Historical or traditional use: Although not recognized until the early eighteenth century, the historical use of peppermint is not dramatically different than its use in modern herbal medicine. Classified as a carminative herb, peppermint has been used as a general digestive aid and employed in the treatment of indigestion and intestinal colic.1 2

Active constituents: Peppermint leaves contain about 0.5-4% volatile oil that is composed of 50-78% free menthol and 5-20% menthol combined with other constituents.3 Peppermint oil is classified as a carminative, 4 meaning that it helps ease intestinal cramping and tone the digestive system. It may also increase the flow of bile from the gallbladder.

Peppermint oil’s relaxing effect also extends to topical use. When applied topically it acts as a counterirritant and analgesic with the ability to reduce pain and improve blood flow to the affected area.5

How much should I take? For internal use, a tea can be made by pouring 250 ml (1 cup) of boiling water over 1 heaped U.S. teaspoon (5 grams) of the dried leaves and steeping for five to ten minutes;  three to four cups daily between meals can relieve stomach and gastrointestinal complaints. Peppermint leaf tablets, capsules, and liquid extracts are often taken at 3-6 grams per day. For treatment of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), 1-2 capsules of the enteric-coated capsules containing 0.2 ml of peppermint oil taken two to three times per day may be preferable.

For headaches, many people apply a combination of peppermint oil and eucalyptus oil diluted with base oil to the temples at the onset of the headache and every hour after that or until symptom relief is noted.

Are there any side effects or interactions? Peppermint tea is generally considered safe for regular consumption. Peppermint oil, in large amounts, can cause burning and gastrointestinal upset in some people. It should be avoided by persons with chronic heartburn. Some persons using the enteric-coated peppermint capsules may experience a burning sensation in the rectum. Rare allergic reactions have been reported with topical use of peppermint oil. Peppermint tea should be used with caution in infants and young children as they may choke in reaction to the strong menthol; chamomile is usually a better choice for this group.

 

References:

1. Foster S. Herbs for Your Health. Loveland, CO: Interweave Press, 1996, 72-3.
2. Rees W, Evans B, Rhodes J. Treating irritable bowel syndrome with peppermint oil. Brit Med J 1979; ii:835-6.
3. Bradley PR, ed. British Herbal Compendium, Vol. 1. British Herbal Medicine Association, Bournemouth, Dorset, 1992, 174-6.
4. Tyler VE. Herbs of Choice: The Therapeutic Use of Phytomedicinals. Pharmaceutical Products Press, New York, 1994, 56-7.
5. Göbel H, Schmidt G, Dwoshak M, et al. Essential plant oils and headache mechanisms. Phytomed 1995; 2:93-102.

 

Copyright © 1998 Virtual Health, LLC

The information presented in HealthNotes Online is for informational purposes only. It is based on scientific studies (human, animal, or in vitro), clinical experience, or traditional usage as cited in each article. The results reported may not necessarily occur in all individuals. For many of the conditions discussed, treatment with prescription or over-the-counter medication is also available. Consult your physician, nutritionally-oriented health care practitioner, and/or pharmacist for any health problem and before using any supplements or before making any changes in prescribed medications.