Peppermint Oil Relieves Irritable Bowel Syndrome

The effects of peppermint oil on patients with irritable bowel syndrome have been studied. For example, a study published in the journal BMC Complementary Medicine and Therapies states that it is a safe and effective treatment that can relieve the symptoms of that disease. What else is known about the subject? Are there any other studies that support this claim? In today’s article, we’ll talk about how peppermint oil relieves irritable bowel syndrome and also give advice on using it for that purpose.

Peppermint oil relieves irritable bowel syndrome

Peppermint was used in ancient times for all kinds of medicinal purposes. Both its leaves and essential oil have been used in beverages, extracts and creams as additional help for various ailments such as the flu, headaches and digestive problems.

However, researchers have recently found that peppermint essential oil also treats irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). More specifically, it helps control the symptoms associated with it, such as pain, constipation, inflammation, and bloating.

A study review published in the BMJ concluded that peppermint oil was more effective than placebo in treating irritable bowel syndrome. In addition, its effects would seem to overcome even fiber, and they are also compared to anticonvulsant drugs.

Sure, but why does it work? Researchers suggest that peppermint oil has an anticonvulsant effect; in other words, menthol, one of its active ingredients, soothes intestinal smooth muscle. In this way, it helps to reduce bloating, pain, constipation, diarrhea and the feeling that the bowel is not being emptied properly.

A randomized controlled trial published in Digestive and Liver Disease , on the other hand, found that four weeks of treatment with peppermint essential oil helped relieve the stomach symptoms typical of irritable bowel syndrome.

In addition, a study published in the medical journal Alimentary Pharmacology & Therapeutics  found that this oil has other mechanisms of action against irritable bowel syndrome, such as adjustment of visceral sensitivity, its antimicrobial effect, and anti-inflammatory effect.

Is Peppermint Oil Safe?

Most studies have shown that peppermint oil is safe to use. However, there is still a lot to explore, so these results should not be given too much weight. Keep in mind that peppermint oil is not the primary treatment option for irritable bowel syndrome and should be used judiciously, preferably under medical supervision.

The reason for this is that the heavy use of mint and its derivatives has side effects. For example, researchers have found that it interferes with the absorption of vitamins, minerals and medicines. In addition, it can cause heartburn, dry mouth and nausea if swallowed. In rare cases, it can also cause allergic reactions.

Treatment of irritable bowel syndrome with peppermint oil

So far, studies on peppermint oil and irritable bowel syndrome have focused on its capsule form. There is no evidence that drinking peppermint made from leaves would have the same effects. However, a stew is a fairly safe option.

Peppermint capsules usually have an enteric coating that prevents them from being broken down by stomach acid. It exists in order to prevent the capsules from melting before entering the intestine, thus avoiding possible side effects such as the previously mentioned hyperacidity. In general, the dosages are as follows:

• Adults: 0.2-0.4 ml peppermint oil three times a day
• Children 8 years of age and older: 0.1-0.2 ml of peppermint oil three times a day

Note that it should not be used concomitantly with antacids (gastric acid neutralizing agents) as they break down the enteric coating. In addition, the capsules should be swallowed whole, so do not use peppermint oil as it is. You should stick to the correct dosage, which has already been carefully measured for each capsule.

Recommendations for patients with irritable bowel syndrome

Irritable Bowel Syndrome is a disease that requires a multidisciplinary approach. Therefore, consult your doctor before using any supplements such as peppermint oil to relieve your symptoms.

Both doctors and nutritionists – and even psychologists – can advise you on effective methods to reduce symptoms and avoid complications. You should also change your diet and adopt a generally healthy lifestyle. Therefore, consider the following points:

• Make sure you get the ideal amount of fiber
• Avoid gluten
• Adopt the FODMAP diet
• Be physically active
• Avoid stress
• Adopt proper sleeping habits
• Drink enough water and other healthy drinks

• Follow any treatment prescribed by your doctor
• Visit a psychologist for therapy

Studies on adjuvant treatments for irritable bowel syndrome are ongoing. For this reason, it is now possible to use supplements such as peppermint oil to control symptoms. However, always ask your doctor before use.