Peppermint Oil is a gastrointestinal herbal supplement.
It claims to be effective as treatment for colic, common cold, dysmenorrhea, indigestion, inflammation of mouth/pharynx, irritable bowel syndrome, nausea, vomiting, pain, respiratory infections, and tension headaches.
Should be taken with adequate amount of fluid to prevent bowel obstruction.
The herb peppermint, a natural cross between two types of mint water mint and spearmint.
It is a common flavoring agent in foods, and peppermint oil is used to create a pleasant fragrance in soaps and cosmetics.
Peppermint leaf is available in teas, capsules, and as a liquid extract.
Peppermint oil is available as liquid solutions and in capsules, including enteric-coated capsules.
Studied most extensively for IBS.
Peppermint oil has been used topically for tension headaches and a limited amount of evidence suggests that it might be helpful.
Not enough evidence exists to allow any conclusions to be reached about whether peppermint oil is helpful for nausea, or the common cold or other conditions.
Appears to be safe when taken orally.
Excessive doses of peppermint oil can be toxic.
Possible side effects of peppermint oil include allergic reactions and heartburn.
Capsules containing peppermint oil are often enteric-coated to reduce the likelihood of heartburn.
Side effects of peppermint_oil include:
allergic reactions
burning mouth syndrome
diarrhea with anal burning
flushing
headache
heartburn
mouth ulcers
rash
respiratory collapse
skin irritation
inflammation of the kidney
Serious side effects of Peppermint Oil include:
acute renal failure from overdose.