What should you know about Peppermint uses, forms, evidence and safety?
Peppermint leaf tea, culinary leaf, enteric-coated oil and essential oil are different forms with different evidence and safety considerations.
The short answer
The exact identity, preparation and amount determine how information about Peppermint applies. Traditional context and practitioner experience are presented separately from modern research. Oral peppermint oil can cause heartburn, nausea, abdominal pain or dry mouth and may worsen reflux. Menthol-containing oil should not be applied to an infant or young child’s face. Food amounts are likely safe in pregnancy, but medicinal amounts are insufficiently studied.
Sources
- Peppermint Oil: Usefulness and SafetyNational Center for Complementary and Integrative Health