Mentha × piperita · Leaf and oil
Peppermint
Studied in peopleA natural cross of water mint and spearmint, peppermint has been a garden and tea favorite since at least the days of ancient Egypt, Greece and Rome. Mint is named among the garden herbs tithed in the Gospels.
Traditionally used for
- Traditionally used as an after-meal tea to settle the stomach
- Leaves used in folk practice as a cooling herb
- Oil used in balms for a cooling sensation
What research says
NCCIH reports that enteric-coated peppermint oil capsules may help relieve symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome in some people, based on a number of human studies. Evidence for other uses is limited.
How people use it
- Fresh or dried leaf tea, steeped 5–10 minutes
- Chopped into salads, tabbouleh and yogurt sauces
- Food-grade oil used sparingly in recipes
Safety and interactions
- Peppermint oil can cause heartburn; avoid if you have reflux
- Never apply peppermint oil to the face of infants or young children
- Essential oil is highly concentrated; do not swallow undiluted oil
Always talk with your doctor or pharmacist before using peppermint as a supplement, especially with prescription medicine, in pregnancy or before surgery.
Sources
- NIH NCCIH: Peppermint Oil
- Scripture: Matthew 23:23 (KJV)
- PubMed: current research on peppermint oil irritable bowel syndrome
Reviewed October 25, 2026. Evidence tier: Studied in people: Human studies summarized by NIH NCCIH suggest a possible benefit for a specific use. How we rank evidence.