Peppermint Uses and Side Effects

What Is Peppermint?

Peppermint, a natural cross between water mint and spearmint, is a botanical, which the Office of Dietary Supplements (ODS) describes as a plant used for its medicinal or therapeutic properties. It’s most often used in the form of an herbal tea or oil capsule to help relieve symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) and other digestive problems, as well as colds and headaches.

According to the National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health, most available research explores the benefits and side effects of using peppermint oil, with limited studies focusing on the peppermint leaf itself.

While the U.S. Food and Drug Administration requires botanical dietary supplements to be produced using good manufacturing practices to enhance the safety of these products, it doesn’t require proof that they’re effective before they reach the market. As such, both results and side effects of consuming peppermint products can vary.

Uses of Peppermint

Many people with IBS, a gastrointestinal disorder with no known cause, turn to peppermint oil for relief from symptoms such as bloating, gas, diarrhea, and general abdominal pain. In such cases, the American College of Gastroenterology recommends enteric-coated peppermint oil capsules to help provide symptom relief and avoid potential side effects.

Drinking peppermint tea or consuming a couple drops of diluted peppermint oil may help relieve sinus congestion, as the menthol in peppermint can help open the nasal passages, although this remedy is only recommended for certain populations. Consuming a few drops of peppermint oil in water may also help relieve esophageal spasms by relaxing these throat muscles.

People undergoing chemotherapy may find peppermint aromatherapy or consuming a small amount of peppermint extract helpful in reducing common symptoms like nausea and vomiting.

According to research published in January 2023, participants have observed that the topical application of diluted peppermint oil to the temples can be helpful in soothing headaches, too.

Potential Side Effects of Peppermint

While peppermint is often used to address indigestion, the botanical may also exacerbate symptoms of digestive discomfort in certain populations and when consumed in high doses. People who experience heartburn easily should be particularly wary of peppermint in their diet, as it’s a common trigger.

Although rare, serious side effects may result from consuming peppermint, including:

• Allergic reaction
• Dizziness
• Itchy, widespread skin rash
• Muscle shakes
• Slow heartbeat (bradycardia)

While peppermint tea is generally considered safe, peppermint oil should be used with caution. While consuming it orally is safe, peppermint oil can be toxic if you take too much. Also note that food-grade peppermint oil and peppermint essential oil for diffusers and aromatherapy are distinct products, the latter of which should never be consumed orally.

The National Capital Poison Center notes that menthol, one of the naturally occurring compounds of peppermint oil, can cause eye and skin irritation, and products with menthol are flammable, so you should keep them away from flame and heat.

The ODS advises that anyone taking botanicals for dietary supplementation or as an alternative medicinal treatment should follow the instructions on the package and never take more than the recommended dose. It’s also a good idea to consult your healthcare provider before taking new supplements to avoid adverse reactions, drug interactions, and more.