Peppermint is hybrid that can be grown in most
temperate climates. The entire plants is machine harvested just
before it blooms and then allowed to dry. All parts of the plant
contain an essential oil 85 % of them is menthol. Leaves are used
to make teas. Steam distillation is used to extract the essential
oil.
Peppermint is used to treat common
cold, bronchial spasm, biliary tract spasm, gallbladder disorders
and gastrointestinal spasm.
Effects
Peppermint oil relieves intestinal muscular spasm,
both in the laboratory and in double-blind controlled clinical trials.
This herb seems to have an action of so-called calcium channel blocking.
At the cellular level, calcium is a key element in muscle contraction,
both in the muscles of the intestine and in the blood vessels. Peppermint
seems to be effective to patients with severe cases of irritable
bowel syndrome by its action of calcium channel blockage. In Europe,
a standardized herbal combination called Enteroplant, consisting
of peppermint oil (90 mg) and caraway (50 mg) in an enteric coated
capsule, is very popular of the treatment of mild stomach upset,
and its effectiveness has been proven in at least one clinical trial.
In a controlled trial, peppermint oil applied to the skin relieves
tension headache just as good as acetaminophen or aspirin.
Concerns
Peppermint oil can cause irritation to mucous membranes
if applied directly. It also can be destroyed by gastric acid, it
is advised to use capsule form for treating intestinal problems.
Precautions
A very large dose (2 to 9 grams of the oil
taken at one time) can cause acute renal failure. Patients with known
gallbladder stone disease should not use peppermint. Since there is
a chance of bile duct obstruction resulted from stone sliding into
the duct by the contract action of the Peppermint.
Dosage
2 to 3 milliliters of a 1:5, 45 % ethanol tincture
or 6 to 12 drops of essential oil up to three time a day can be
taken. Oil or ointment of peppermint may be applied externally,
either for the relief of headache or to treat muscle pain. When
used on the skin, the preparation should contain between 5-20 %
essential oil. Nasal oils, used to treat colds in Europe, usually
contain 1-5 % oil.
Summary
Peppermint can be safely used to relieve variety
of gastrointestinal symptoms, reduce pain from muscle sprains, and
possibly even help patients with tension headaches. It can be taken
with extracted form internally or apply externally on the skin.
Large doses of peppermint oil can cause serious toxicity, but in
traditionally-used doses, is a safe remedy.
Interesting Facts
Peppermint was grown in ancient Egypt. Romans chewed
the leaves to prevent bad breath, and used extracts to flavor wines
and foods. It was believed that scattering dried leaves around granaries
would keep away rats and mice. It was recognized of growing in Europe
in the late 17th century. And at one time, peppermint was thought
to be an aphrodisiac.
DISCLAIMER: Information
on this site is provided for informational purposes and is not meant
to substitute for the advice provided by your own physician or other
medical professional. You should not use the information contained
herein for diagnosing or treating a health problem or disease, or
prescribing any medication. You should read carefully all product
packaging. If you have or suspect that you have a medical problem,
promptly contact your health care provider. Information and statements
regarding dietary supplements have not been evaluated by the Food
and Drug Administration and are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure,
or prevent any disease.
