peppermint oil

Action and Spectrum

Drug Interaction

Adverse Reaction

Frequency not defined 

Burning mouth syndrome 

Flushing 

Headache 

Mouth ulcers 

Allergic reactions 

Diarrhea 

Heartburn 

Topical Use 

Laryngospasm (peds) 

Skin irritation 

Contact dermatitis 

Respiratory collapse 

Black Box Warning

Black box warning: 

None 

Contraindication / Caution

Contraindications/caution: 

Contraindications: 

• Allergic Reactions: Individuals allergic to peppermint or other members of the Lamiaceae family, such as spearmint, may experience allergic reactions to peppermint oil.  
• Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD): peppermint oil may relax the lower esophageal sphincter, potentially worsening symptoms in individuals with GERD or acid reflux. It can lead to increased stomach acid reflux into the esophagus, causing heartburn or exacerbating existing symptoms. 
• Gallbladder Issues: peppermint oil may stimulate bile flow and potentially trigger gallbladder contractions. This can be problematic for individuals with gallstones or other gallbladder issues, as it may cause pain or discomfort.  
• Pediatric Use: Peppermint oil should not be administered orally to infants and young children, as it may cause serious side effects such as breathing difficulties or liver toxicity.  

Caution: 

peppermint oil is not recommended for individuals with a hiatal hernia. A hiatal hernia occurs when a portion of the stomach pushes through the diaphragm into the chest cavity. This condition can lead to heartburn, acid reflux, and chest discomfort. 

Pregnancy / Lactation

Pregnancy consideration: Avoid usage 

Lactation: Avoid usage 

Pregnancy category: 

Category A: well-controlled and Satisfactory studies show no risk to the fetus in the first or later trimester. 

Category B: there was no evidence of risk to the fetus in animal studies, and there were not enough studies on pregnant women. 

Category C: there was evidence of risk of adverse effects in animal reproduction studies, and no adequate evidence in human studies must take care of potential risks in pregnant women.    

Category D: adequate data with sufficient evidence of human fetal risk from various platforms, but despite the potential risk, and used only in emergency cases for potential benefits.    

Category X: Drugs listed in this category outweigh the risks over benefits. Hence these categories of drugs need to be avoided by pregnant women.    

Category N: There is no data available for the drug under this category 

Pharmacology

Pharmacology: 

Gastrointestinal Effects: 

• Smooth Muscle Relaxation: peppermint oil has antispasmodic effects on smooth muscles, particularly in the gastrointestinal tract. It can help relax the smooth muscles of the intestines, reducing spasms and alleviating symptoms such as abdominal pain, bloating, and cramping. 
• Bile Flow Stimulation: peppermint oil may enhance bile secretion from the liver, facilitating the digestion and absorption of fats. 
• Anti-inflammatory Effects: peppermint oil has demonstrated anti-inflammatory properties, which may contribute to its ability to reduce inflammation and associated symptoms in conditions such as inflammatory bowel disease. 

Analgesic Effects: 

• Local Anesthetic Activity: menthol, one of the main components of peppermint oil, acts as a local anesthetic by desensitizing nerve endings and providing a cooling sensation. This effect can help relieve pain and discomfort, particularly in headaches, muscle pain, and dental pain. 

Antimicrobial Effects: 

• Antifungal and Antibacterial Activity: peppermint oil exhibits broad-spectrum antimicrobial activity against various fungi and bacteria. Its constituents, particularly menthol, and menthone, have been shown to inhibit the growth of pathogenic microorganisms. 

Respiratory Effects: 

• Decongestant and Expectorant Properties: Inhalation or topical application of peppermint oil can provide a cooling sensation and help relieve nasal congestion. It may also act as an expectorant, promoting mucus clearance from the airways. 

Pharmacokinetics: 

N/A 

Adminstartion

Administration: 

• Topical Application: Diluted peppermint oil can be applied to the skin for localized effects. It is commonly mixed with carrier oil and applied to the affected area to provide a cooling sensation and relieve muscle pain, headaches, or itching. 
• Inhalation: peppermint oil can be inhaled to provide respiratory and mood-related benefits. This can be achieved through steam inhalation or an essential oil diffuser to disperse the oil into the air. 
• Oral ingestion: peppermint oil is available in capsule, soft gel, or enteric-coated tablet form for oral ingestion. It can be taken with water as a dietary supplement or for digestive support. Enteric-coated tablets are designed to release oil in the intestines for specific digestive symptoms. 

Patient Information Leaflet

Patient information leaflet 

Generic Name: peppermint oil 

Why do we use peppermint oil? 

peppermint oil has various uses and therapeutic benefits, including: 

• Digestive Support: It can help relieve symptoms of indigestion, bloating, gas, and stomach discomfort. 
• Headache and Migraine Relief: When applied topically or inhaled, it may relieve headaches and migraines. 
• Respiratory Support: Inhalation of peppermint oil can help ease nasal congestion, sinus pressure, and respiratory symptoms. 
• Muscle Pain Relief: Topical application of diluted peppermint oil can soothe muscle pain and discomfort. 
• Oral Health: peppermint oil is used in oral care products to freshen breath and promote oral hygiene. 
• Skin Care: It may relieve itchy skin, insect bites, and minor irritations. 
• Mental Alertness and Focus: The aroma of peppermint oil can invigorate and promote mental alertness and focus.