What Is The Essential Oil Of Peppermint Used For?
Sunday, May 6th, 2012Many individuals use herbal products in an attempt to stay in the peak of health. Among the sought-after herbal supplements in the market today is peppermint and it has numerous uses. In this post, we will be talking about the uses of the said herb, and other significant information you need to know prior to using it.
The peppermint shrub is a mix of watermint and spearmint, and it is native to Europe and North America. It is often used in both food and non-food items to impart flavor, scent, and cooling sensation from its high menthol content. In many countries, peppermint is also dried and boiled to make infusions or teas. The fragrance of peppermint has been discovered to boost memory, and for that reason, the herb is popular among students who will be taking examinations.
Peppermint also has a long tradition of medicinal use, with evidence dating its initial use to at least ten thousand years ago. Today, the plant is sold in various forms, from tinctures, pure oils, powder, teas, and the most common, Peppermint oil capsules which are usually given to people with an upset stomach and flatulence. Current body of research also revealed another important peppermint oil benefit and that is as a remedy to Irritable Bowel Syndrome. In one research, it was found out that 7 in 10 people who were given capsules containing peppermint experienced relief from discomforts associated with the disease in as short as four weeks.
The menthol found in peppermint oil is also an effective decongestant and expectorant and is thus used to treat cold symptoms, loosen phlegm, and breaks up cough. Its menthol content also exerts an analgesic effect and is thus used for tension headaches and muscle pain. The refreshing and cooling effect of menthol found in peppermint also can alleviate itchiness and irritation.
Precautions
Peppermint is proven to be safe as long as it is taken as recommended. Overdosing on peppermint oil is possible and dangerous. Capsules should be enteric coated to lessen the side effects of the said oil and to regulate its release. Remember that peppermint is not suitable for children and applying it close to their face can lead to fatal breathing difficulties. Keep in mind that peppermint preparations can interact with medications and other herbs. GERD sufferers and those with a history of gallstone formation should refrain from using preparations of this herb because it is known to exacerbate such conditions.
Keep in mind that health supplements like peppermint oil capsules do not have to be approved to be safe and effective by the FDA to be marketed, and reports of products containing prescription drug substances or unhealthy substances are not unheard of. For these reasons, it is imperative that you do your homework before buying the product by researching for recall history and safety information about the product. Consumer protection websites and the FDA are a good source for this information. As with other traditional medicine practices, it would be necessary to discuss your plans of using peppermint to your healthcare provider so he can get a clear picture of how you manage your health and give valuable advice or make changes to your management to ensure your safety and well-being.
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