That means some supplement products may not contain what the label says.
No supplement is intended to treat, cure, or prevent disease.
Peppermint has been used medicinally for thousands of years, dating back to Ancient Greece and Rome.
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Below is an overview of some of the research on potential health benefits of peppermint.
Unfortunately, there is not much data on peppermint leaf as a treatment for digestive issues.
Anecdotally, peppermint leaf tea is said to soothe anupset stomachand help stomach muscles relax.
However, this has yet to be proven through scientific evidence.
According to a review,peppermint teahas been linked to improved digestion in animal models.
Antibacterial Properties
Bioactive ingredients in peppermint have been found to be protective against various strains ofbacteria.
A laboratory study compared peppermint oil to peppermint leaf extracts for their antibacterial effects against certain types of bacteria.
Researchers believe that peppermint tea may help ward off an acute respiratory tract infection caused byChlamydia pneumoniae.
While these results may be promising, only lab research is available at this time.
Human studies are needed in this area.
Dysmenorrhea
Peppermint extract may help relieve symptoms ofdysmenorrhea(painful menstruation).
Few other studies exist on the use of peppermint leaf products for dysmenorrhea.
Additional research would strengthen the evidence just presented as well as anecdotal evidence regarding peppermint’s effectiveness.
Sore Throat
Peppermint tea is commonly used for asore throat.
The menthol found in peppermint tea is said to have cooling properties that can soothe a sore throat.
Aside from anecdotal evidence, scientific studies are needed to better support the use of peppermint for sore throat.
Bad Breath
Many brands of toothpaste and mouthwash contain peppermint.
This is because peppermint is thought to treat and prevent bad breath (halitosis).
Participants used their assigned mouth rinse for one week before the results were measured.
Peppermint oil is also used to treat bad breath.
It’s believed that peppermint’s bad breath-fighting effects come from its antimicrobial properties.
What Are the Side Effects of Peppermint?
Peppermint is considered safe for most people.
However, some people may experience side effects when using peppermint.
Precautions
Some people may need to avoid using peppermint for various reasons.
There isn’t enough scientific data to know if peppermint is safe to use while pregnant or breastfeeding.
Peppermint may also be unsafe for young children.
More research is needed to determine if other groups should limit or avoid using peppermint.
Dosage: How Much Peppermint Should I Take?
Peppermint dosage will likely vary based on the product you use and your reason for use.
There are currently no dosage guidelines for peppermint.
This is most likely due to an overall lack of scientific research on the uses of peppermint leaf.
What Happens If I Take Too Much Peppermint?
Remember that side effects are rare when using peppermint.
However, you may be more likely to experience side effects if you take too much peppermint.
Possible side effects include heartburn, nausea, vomiting, headache, and allergic reactions.
Menthol is found in peppermint and may be toxic or poisonous if used in very high doses.
Menthol poisoning is extremely rare.
Symptoms of menthol poisoning may include:
Only use peppermint as directed to prevent toxicity or unwanted side effects.
Most forms of peppermint do not require refrigeration.
However, keep fresh peppermint you plan to use soon after purchase in the refrigerator.
You may consider wrapping fresh peppermint leaves in a damp paper towel before placing them in a storage bag.
Peppermint leaves may also be frozen or dried.
Store dried peppermint in an airtight container and keep it in a cool, dry place.
Discard peppermint supplements if they go rancid or pass their expiration date.
Peppermint leaves should be discarded if they lose their scent or start to smell foul.
There isn’t enough scientific information to know if one source of peppermint is better than others.
It’s also worth noting that peppermint is not a required nutrient for health.
Therefore, you should choose the peppermint source that works best for you.
you’ve got the option to use peppermint when cooking or baking at home.
Or, you’re free to purchase foods and drinks that already contain peppermint.
Peppermint is often used to flavor store-bought gums, candies, coffee drinks, and baked goods.
At home, you could use peppermint leaves to flavor water or other cold beverages.
Peppermint supplements are available as capsules, softgels, tinctures, or lozenges.
Some supplements contain peppermint oil, while others contain peppermint leaf extracts.
it’s possible for you to also use fresh or dried peppermint leaves as supplements.
Both peppermint and spearmint belong to the Lamiaceae family and the genusMentha.
Like peppermint, spearmint (Mentha spicata)is often used for its essential oil.
However, its main component iscarvonerather than menthol.
Spearmint and peppermint have different flavors as well.
Peppermint’s flavor is often described as sharp, while spearmint is said to have a more subtle flavor.
However, both types of mint are used to flavor certain foods, toothpaste, pharmaceuticals, and cosmetics.
Spearmint is sometimes used to treatinflammation,hormone imbalances,memory loss, problems with digestion, andosteoarthritis.
Scientific evidence supporting spearmint’s use for these and other conditions is lacking.
If you’re considering using peppermint or spearmint, talk with a healthcare provider first.
However, few of these benefits are supported by scientific evidence.
Peppermint is generally considered safe, but using it can cause some side effects.
It also may not be right for everyone.
Frequently Asked Questions
Peppermint is available in many forms.
you’re free to purchase fresh or dried peppermint leaves.
Peppermint supplements are also available and are sold as capsules, softgels, tinctures, or lozenges.
Supplements may be made from peppermint oil or other extracts from the peppermint plant.
Some foods and drinks (like candies, baked goods, and coffee drinks) may also contain peppermint.
Mentha(mint) is a genus of plants.
Peppermint is just one of many species of mint.
Several mint species are used for medicinal purposes.
Peppermint tea may help treat a sore throat, likely due to the menthol found in peppermint tea.
Menthol has been found to have cooling properties that may help a sore throat feel better.
Like many other herbal teas, peppermint tea is naturally caffeine free.
However, some products that blend peppermint tea with other teas may contain caffeine.
Peppermint tea is described as having a flavor that is minty yet sweet.
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