PROPER NAME:	Mentha piperita aetheroleum
COMMON NAMES:	Brandy mint, balm mint, menthol, Peppermint oil
PARTS USED:	Flowering tops, leaves
FORMS:	External: creams Internal: tablets, capsules, liquid extract
CLAIMS:	Ingestion of peppermint oil is advertised to relieve gas, bloating, abdominal cramps, headaches, nausea, spastic colon, irritable bowl syndrome, gingivitis, dyspepsia, and also act as a digestive aid. It is used topically to relieve symptoms of colds, flus, and fever by cooling down the body. It helps to reduce pain and improve blood flow to the affected area.
DOSAGE:	Internal: 6 - 12 drops/day average dosage For inhalation: 3 - 4 drops in hot water/day For irritable colon: 1-2 capsules by mouth 3 times/day External: few drops applied to affected area These are common dosages but no “safe” dose has been established
SIDE EFFECTS:	Peppermint oil is contraindicated in pregnant women, young children, and persons with gastroesophageal reflux disease. High doses have been shown to cause gastrointestinal upset, burning in rectum, obstruction of bile ducts, gallbladder inflammation, or severe liver damage in some people. May worsen symptoms of esophageal reflux and hiatel hernia. Peppermint oil has not been shown to have interactions with any drugs but may interfere with the absorption of iron. Peppermint oil is an approved herb based on the Commission E Report guidelines

PEPPERMINT OIL REFERENCES :
Blumenthal, M. (1998). The Complete German Commission E Monographs, Therapeutic Guide to Herbal Medicines. Boston, MA: Integrative Medicine Communications.

Peppermint (on-line). (1999). Available Internet: www.springnet.com/content/nunsing/9904/herb19.htm

Peppermint (on-line). (1998). Available Internet: www.mothernature.comency/herb/peppermint.asp

Peppermint Oil (on-line). (1998). Available Internet: www.1001herbs.com/peppermint-oil/

Vitamins, Minerals, Herbs and Dietary Supplements (on-line). (1999). Available Internet: www.bewell.com/vit/herb141.asp

Disclaimer:
This article is intended to provide basic information only. It is not a recommendation for use or endorsement of any product listed, by the Southeastern Michigan Dietetic Association. Please consult your physician or a health professional before taking any medications or supplements.

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