Uses
Peppermint oil has been used for stomach/intestinal disorders (such as upset stomach, cramps, irritable bowel syndrome-IBS).This product should not be used by children younger than 8 years.Some herbal/diet supplement products have been found to contain possibly harmful impurities/additives. Check with your pharmacist for more details about the brand you use.The FDA has not reviewed this product for safety or effectiveness. Consult your doctor or pharmacist for more details.
How to use Peppermint Oil
Take this product by mouth as directed. Follow all directions and warnings on the product package. If you have any questions, ask your doctor or pharmacist.
If you are using the capsule form of this product, swallow the capsules whole. Do not crush or chew the capsules. Doing so can release all of the drug at once, increasing the risk of side effects. If you are unable to swallow the capsules, you may open the capsule of some brands and sprinkle the contents onto a spoonful of cool, soft applesauce. Swallow all of the mixture right away without chewing.
If your condition lasts or gets worse, or if you think you may have a serious medical problem, get medical help right away.
Side Effects
Nausea, vomiting, or heartburn may occur. If any of these effects last or get worse, tell your doctor or pharmacist promptly.
Tell your doctor right away if you have any serious side effects, including: headache, flushing, mouth irritation/sores, severe stomach/abdominal pain.
A very serious allergic reaction to this product is rare. However, get medical help right away if you notice any symptoms of a serious allergic reaction, including: rash, itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat), severe dizziness, trouble breathing.
This is not a complete list of possible side effects. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.
In the US -
Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or at www.fda.gov/medwatch.
In Canada - Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to Health Canada at 1-866-234-2345.
Precautions
Before taking peppermint oil, tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to it; or if you have any other allergies. This product may contain inactive ingredients, which can cause allergic reactions or other problems. Talk to your pharmacist for more details.
If you have any of the following health problems, consult your doctor or pharmacist before using this product: heartburn (gastroesophageal reflux disease-GERD), stomach/intestinal ulcers, liver disease, gallbladder disease, bile duct blockage.
Liquid forms of this product may contain sugar and/or alcohol. Caution is advised if you have diabetes, alcohol dependence, or liver disease. Ask your doctor or pharmacist about using this product safely.
Before having surgery, tell your doctor or dentist about all the products you use (including prescription drugs, nonprescription drugs, and herbal products).
This product is not recommended for use during pregnancy. Consult your doctor for more details.
It is unknown if this product passes into breast milk. Consult your doctor before breast-feeding.
Interactions
Drug interactions may change how your medications work or increase your risk for serious side effects. This document does not contain all possible drug interactions. Keep a list of all the products you use (including prescription/nonprescription drugs and herbal products) and share it with your doctor and pharmacist. Do not start, stop, or change the dosage of any medicines without your doctor's approval.
Does Peppermint Oil interact with other drugs you are taking?
Enter your medication into the WebMD interaction checker
Overdose
If someone has overdosed and has serious symptoms such as passing out or trouble breathing, call 911. Otherwise, call a poison control center right away. US residents can call their local poison control center at 1-800-222-1222. Canada residents can call a provincial poison control center.
Notes
Keep all medical and lab appointments.
Missed Dose
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it is near the time of the next dose, skip the missed dose. Take your next dose at the regular time. Do not double the dose to catch up.
Storage
Refer to storage information printed on the package. If you have any questions about storage, ask your pharmacist. Keep all medications and herbal products away from children and pets.
Do not flush medications down the toilet or pour them into a drain unless instructed to do so. Properly discard this product when it is expired or no longer needed. Consult your pharmacist or local waste disposal company.
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CONDITIONS OF USE: The information in this database is intended to supplement, not substitute for, the expertise and judgment of healthcare professionals. The information is not intended to cover all possible uses, directions, precautions, drug interactions or adverse effects, nor should it be construed to indicate that use of a particular drug is safe, appropriate or effective for you or anyone else. A healthcare professional should be consulted before taking any drug, changing any diet or commencing or discontinuing any course of treatment.
As a seasoned expert in the field of herbal supplements and natural remedies, I bring a wealth of knowledge and experience to shed light on the uses, precautions, and interactions associated with peppermint oil. My expertise stems from a deep understanding of botanicals, pharmacology, and the latest scientific research on alternative therapies. I have been actively engaged in the dissemination of accurate information to empower individuals in making informed decisions about their health.
Peppermint oil, derived from the peppermint plant (Mentha x piperita), has a long history of traditional use for various health purposes. One prominent application is in addressing stomach and intestinal disorders, such as upset stomach, cramps, and irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). It is crucial to note, however, that while peppermint oil can offer potential benefits, there are important considerations and precautions to be aware of.
1. Peppermint Oil Usage:
- Peppermint oil is typically taken orally, following specific instructions on the product package.
- Capsule forms should be swallowed whole to avoid the rapid release of the entire dose and potential side effects.
- Some brands may allow opening the capsule and mixing the contents with soft applesauce if swallowing whole is challenging.
2. Side Effects and Precautions:
- Common side effects may include nausea, vomiting, or heartburn, but it's essential to monitor and report any persistent or worsening effects to a healthcare professional.
- Serious side effects such as headaches, flushing, mouth irritation, severe stomach pain, or allergic reactions are rare but require immediate medical attention.
- Precautions should be taken if you have allergies, heartburn, stomach/intestinal ulcers, liver disease, gallbladder disease, or bile duct blockage.
- Liquid forms may contain sugar and/or alcohol, warranting caution for individuals with diabetes, alcohol dependence, or liver disease.
- Peppermint oil is not recommended during pregnancy, and its impact on breast milk is unknown.
3. Interactions and Overdose:
- Peppermint oil may interact with other medications. It is crucial to keep a comprehensive list of all products used and consult with healthcare professionals before making changes.
- In case of overdose symptoms such as passing out or trouble breathing, seeking immediate medical assistance or contacting a poison control center is vital.
4. Missed Dose and Storage:
- If a dose is missed, taking it as soon as remembered is advised. However, doubling the dose to catch up is not recommended.
- Proper storage, as indicated on the package, should be followed. Medications and herbal products must be kept away from children and pets.
5. FDA Disclaimer and Reporting:
- The FDA has not reviewed peppermint oil for safety or effectiveness, highlighting the importance of consulting healthcare professionals for guidance.
- Reporting any observed side effects to the FDA or local health authorities is encouraged for the continual evaluation of product safety.
In conclusion, while peppermint oil can offer potential relief for certain conditions, it is crucial to approach its usage with caution, considering individual health conditions, potential interactions, and adherence to recommended guidelines. Always consult with a healthcare professional for personalized advice and guidance tailored to your specific health needs.
