Recent studies support the role of peppermint in many conditions. However, more research is necessary to understand its exact mechanisms and safety.
This article discusses the potential health benefits of peppermint, including their evidence and limitations.
Essential oils
Although research suggests essential oils may have some health benefits, it is important to remember that the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) does not monitor or regulate the purity or quality of these oils.
Also, clinical studies usually use essential oils or other remedies under professional medical guidance. As a result, the same methods may not be appropriate or safe when used at home.
Before using essential oils, supplements, or other home remedies, always make sure to:
- talk with a healthcare professional
- research the quality of a particular brand’s products
- do a patch test before applying them to the skin
- dilute an essential oil with a carrier oil before applying it to the skin
- never swallow essential oils or place them in the mouth, as this can be poisonous
See more about how to use essential oils safely and their risks.
1. Relieves digestive symptoms
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Peppermint may also have anti-nausea properties. A 2020 study with people undergoing chemotherapy for cancer shared that peppermint oil applied on the skin between the mouth and nose significantly decreased symptom severity and frequency, such as nausea and vomiting.
Read more about home remedies for nausea.
2. Alleviates irritable bowel syndrome
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The
These benefits may be due to peppermint oil helping the gastrointestinal muscles relax.
3. Improves migraine and headaches
More research is necessary to understand how peppermint may relieve migraine and headaches fully. Some studies suggest that the menthol in peppermint has cooling and pain relief effects, which could help
For example, a 2023 study involving people with tension headaches shared that people who used peppermint essential oil had significantly less pain intensity than those who received a placebo.
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4. Alleviates seasonal allergies
Peppermint contains rosmarinic acid, which some research suggests may relieve symptoms linked with allergies, such as inflammation and allergic immune responses.
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5. Relieves other inflammation
Similarly to its effects on allergies, peppermint may have
A small 2016 study including people with oral mucositis, a type of mouth inflammation, shared that using chamomile and peppermint mouthwash decreased symptoms and complications.
A 2020 animal study also suggested that peppermint essential oils may help reduce or prevent signs of asthma in mice. However, experts do not usually recommend essential oils for many people with asthma, as they may trigger asthma attacks. More research involving humans is also necessary.
6. Naturally freshens breath
Peppermint may have
Also, peppermint flavors may help mask unpleasant mouth odors and provide a fresh sensation. The cooling effect of peppermint may also provide a temporary feeling of freshness. Edible peppermint products include peppermint tea, chewing gum, and mints.
7. Boosts energy levels
In one
The results suggested that taking peppermint significantly improved exercise performance and reduced perceived tiredness compared with the placebo group.
8. Relieves menstrual cramps
Much like peppermint may help relax the gastrointestinal muscles, research also suggests it may help relax the uterine muscles.
For example, a
However, research into the benefits of peppermint on menstruation is limited.
Learn more about treating menstrual cramps.
9. Helps with infections
Peppermint oil may have antibacterial properties. For example, research suggests it may help clear or
These bacteria can all cause serious infections in humans.
Peppermint may also help prevent or clear fungal infections, such as those caused by Candida fungus strains.
However, peppermint alone may not treat infections — especially if they are serious. Always talk with a doctor if you have questions about treating infection and follow their advice.
10. Promotes good sleep
Peppermint may have benefits that help improve sleep. Due to its muscle relaxant properties, peppermint oil and menthol could
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See more tips to help improve sleep.
11. Enhances concentration and focus
Peppermint oil with high levels of menthol and menthone compounds may benefit cognitive performance and mental fatigue in adults without health conditions.
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Participants who inhaled peppermint oil also reported better moods and reduced mental fatigue after the cognitive tasks.
Further research is necessary
While some studies show the health benefits of peppermint, further research is necessary to confirm its effectiveness for different conditions. Current research is limited, and effects may vary depending on specific circumstances, such as how you take peppermint.
Each person may react to peppermint differently, and side effects and allergic reactions can occur.
Always talk with your doctor before using peppermint or other supplements to treat a condition.
Summary
Peppermint has many potential health benefits supported by current research, such as:
- aiding digestion
- relieving headaches and menstrual cramps
- supporting digestion
- improving energy
- freshening breath
However, in many cases, further studies are necessary to confirm the safety and effectiveness of peppermint products.
Always talk with a doctor before using peppermint products or other natural remedies. Also, contact a doctor if you are considering using natural remedies to treat a health condition.
