01
Why people use it
Peppermint leaf tea, culinary leaf, enteric-coated oil and essential oil are different forms with different evidence and safety considerations.
- ✓Culinary herb
- ✓Caffeine-free leaf tea
- ✓Enteric-coated oil research for IBS symptoms
02
What the evidence says
A 2022 review found enteric-coated peppermint oil improved overall IBS symptoms and abdominal pain versus placebo, with more mostly mild side effects. Very little research has evaluated peppermint leaf itself, so oil findings do not support tea claims.
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These labels summarize the available context; they are not a clinical recommendation.03
Common forms
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Evidence and safety apply only to the specific form, species, preparation, dose and population studied. Do not transfer findings between foods, brewed teas, powders, extracts, capsules, oils or blends.
Safety note
Know before you use it
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.
Read the complete Peppermint guide
A complete guide to Peppermint uses, distinct preparations, traditional context, modern evidence and practical safety considerations.
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Sources & review
- Peppermint Oil: Usefulness and SafetyNational Center for Complementary and Integrative Health