The Effects of Peppermint Oil on Humans

Peppermint is a hybrid plant; it is a cross between spearmint and water mint. Peppermint is often used in cosmetics and personal care products, as well as to flavor foods. It can also be used as a tea, applied topically as an essential oil or taken orally in a capsule. Peppermint oil is often used as an herbal remedy for a variety of medicinal purposes. While it can often have a positive effect on human health, it may also result in some negative side effects.

Gastrointestinal Effects

• The University of Maryland Medical Center suggests that peppermint oil has a number of beneficial effects on the human digestive system. This essential oil has the ability to soothe the muscles. Taken orally in a capsule, it can alleviate symptoms of indigestion by improving the body’s flow of bile (used to digest fat). However, do not use peppermint oil if your indigestion is due to GERD (or gastroesophageal reflux disease). Peppermint oil can also be taken orally to ease symptoms of painful flatulence and bloating. Additionally, the National Institutes of Health suggests that peppermint oil may relieve nausea.

  Some patients have also experienced improvement with symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). Peppermint oil may relieve abdominal pain and diarrhea. However, the University of Maryland Medical Center warns that IBS patients should use peppermint oil capsules that are enteric-coated, which prevents the capsule from breaking down too quickly. Capsules that are released too early may result in heartburn and indigestion.

Topical Application Effects

• Peppermint oil can also be applied topically. The essential oil may help to relieve itchy, dry skin and other skin irritations. It can soothe and cool poison ivy, poison oak and hives. Some patients may also find relief from tension headaches by applying peppermint oil to their temples and forehead.

Negative Effects

• Peppermint oil, whether used orally or topically, also has the potential for negative effects on human health. The University of Maryland Medical Center warns that this essential oil should never be given to an infant or small child. This may result in spasms and breathing difficulties that are life-threatening. Consult with your pediatrician before giving any herbal remedies to a child of any age. Additionally, if you have any pre-existing medical conditions, or take any medications, consult with your doctor before using an herbal remedy. Peppermint oil may worsen gallstones, cause a rash, result in hypoglycemia (low blood sugar) and increase the effects of high blood pressure medications. It may also interact with drugs such as cyclosporine and antacids. Pregnant or breastfeeding mothers should never use peppermint oil. Additionally, never swallow peppermint oil that was intended to be applied topically, as this may be toxic. If you’re unsure of whether an essential oil can be taken orally, obtain capsules instead.