How Peppermint Is Used In IBS
Historically, peppermint was taken as a tea to treat general digestive problems. It is known to reduce the production of gas in the intestine. Today peppermint is recognized by researchers as being effective for irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) when used in its oil form. Peppermint oil has even been approved for use by IBS patients in Germany.
How Peppermint Is Used
Peppermint oil can be taken in either capsules or tea. See your physician or licensed healthcare professional to determine the proper dosage in capsule form.
Drug Interactions
If you take lansoprazole to reduce stomach acid, it may compromise the enteric coating of some commercially available peppermint oil capsules. This can happen using H2-receptor antagonists and proton pump inhibitors as well. Take care when mixing medications and other supplements and peppermint.
Use During Pregnancy
Peppermint is not recommended for use during pregnancy. It is not known if peppermint could affect an unborn baby. It’s also not known if peppermint could affect a nursing baby, so it’s not recommended for use in women who are breastfeeding.
Warnings
It’s not common, but there are people who are allergic to peppermint. Peppermint oil should never be applied to the face or near mucous membranes. Using more than one form of peppermint at a time, such as tea and oil, is not recommended because it could lead to side effects.
One of the biggest problems with supplements like peppermint, and others, is that because it is not regulated by the FDA, the contents can be variable. It has happened that supplements contain harmful ingredients, or even don’t contain the amount of active ingredient that’s listed on the label. It may not be possible to know exactly what is in any purchased supplement, which is why it is important to seek reputable brands and to tell your healthcare team what you are taking.
Peppermint has the potential to worsen certain conditions. Do not use this herb if:
You have chronic heartburnYou have severe liver damageYou have inflammation of the gallbladderYou have obstruction of bile ductsYou are pregnant
Talk to your healthcare provider if:
You have gallstones
Possible Side Effects
Peppermint oil may cause burning or stomach upset in some people. Enteric-coated capsules may cause a burning sensation in the rectum. If you experience these side effects you may want to stop taking peppermint.
Children and Infants
The strong menthol present in the tea may cause infants and small children to choke. Peppermint was historically used to treat colic in infants, but it is not recommended today. See chamomile for a possible alternative.
The Bottom Line
Peppermint tea is thought to be safe. However, peppermint should be used with caution by people who have serious digestive concerns or by pregnant women. As with any supplement, its use should be discussed with a healthcare provider.
In addition, you should not make peppermint essential oil tea in plastic, styrofoam, or paper cups as the oil can degrade the materials. Instead, use a ceramic, glass, or metal mug.
