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U.S. Department of Health & Human Services / National Institutes of Health
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The herb peppermint, a natural cross between water mint and spearmint, grows throughout Europe and North America. Its leaves and essential oil have been used for health purposes.
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Peppermint has been used medicinally for several thousand years. Records from ancient Greece, Rome, and Egypt say that it was used for digestive disorders and other conditions.
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Today, peppermint is promoted for irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), other digestive problems, headaches, the common cold, and other conditions.
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A small amount of research has been done on peppermint oil, primarily focusing on IBS. The studies suggest that peppermint oil in enteric-coated capsules may improve IBS symptoms in adults.
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A limited amount of evidence suggests that peppermint oil applied topically might be beneficial for tension headaches.
What Do We Know About Safety?
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Peppermint oil appears to be safe when taken orally in the amounts commonly used. Possible side effects of oral use include heartburn, nausea, abdominal pain, and dry mouth. Capsules containing peppermint oil are often enteric-coated to reduce the likelihood of heartburn.
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Side effects of applying peppermint oil to the skin can include skin rashes and irritation. Peppermint oil should not be applied to the faces of infants or young children because serious side effects may occur if they inhale the menthol in the oil.
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