Peppermint Oil

Peppermint oil is derived from the peppermint plant, a cross between water mint and spearmint, that thrives in Europe and North America.

Peppermint oil is commonly used as flavoring in foods and beverages and as a fragrance in soaps and cosmetics. But peppermint oil also is used for a variety of health conditions and can be taken orally in dietary supplements containing low doses. Low concentrations can also be applied to the skin.

When used as directed, dietary supplementsand skin preparations containing peppermint oil are likely safe for most adults. Some evidence suggests that peppermint oil may help relieve symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome and indigestion. But despite some promising research, there is no clear-cut evidence to support its use for other health conditions.

Unlike prescription and over-the-counter medications, dietary supplements such as peppermint oil don't require FDA approval. But their manufacturers are not allowed to claim that they prevent or treat illness. Peppermint oil may cause side effects such as heartburn and also may interact with certain medications. So it's important to tell your doctor if you're using peppermint oil.

Medicinal Uses of Peppermint Oil

In dietary supplements, peppermint oil is used for a variety of digestive problems, such as:

• Irritable bowel syndrome
• Indigestion
• Heartburn
• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Morning sickness
• Cramps of the upper gastrointestinal tract and bile ducts
• Diarrhea
• Bacterial overgrowth of the small intestine
• Gas

Dietary supplements containing peppermint oil are also used by some people for the following conditions, although there is no clear evidence that it is helpful:

• Colds
• Coughs
• Inflammation of the mouth and throat
• Sinus and respiratory infections
• Menstrual problems
• Liver and gallbladder problems

Skin preparations containing peppermint oil are used by some people for the following conditions, although -- again --  there is no clear evidence that it is helpful:

• Headache
• Muscle pain
• Nerve pain
• Toothache
• Inflammation of the mouth
• Joint conditions
• Itchiness
• Allergic rash
• Bacterial and viral infections
• Repelling mosquitoes

In addition, peppermint oil vapor is sometimes inhaled to treat symptoms of coldsand coughs. Also, some doctors add peppermint oil to a barium solution to relax the colon during barium enemas.