Peppermint Oil Supplements: Benefits, Dosage and Safety
Peppermint oil supplements, in enteric-coated capsules, reduce abdominal pain and overall symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome in meta-analyses. They relax the muscles of the gut. Heartburn is the most common side effect.
Evidence at a glance
| Use | Grade | What the research shows |
|---|---|---|
| IBS symptoms and abdominal pain | B | Better than placebo in meta-analyses. |
A: strong, consistent human evidence · B: moderate · C: limited or mixed · D: good evidence of no benefit.
Menthol, the main compound in peppermint oil, relaxes smooth muscle in the intestine.
How to take it
Take enteric-coated capsules 30–60 minutes before meals. See gut health supplements.
Safety and interactions
May worsen heartburn or reflux. Don't apply peppermint oil to the faces of infants and young children.
Always tell your doctor and pharmacist about the supplements you take. Check combinations with our interaction checker.
Sources
This page is for education and is not a substitute for advice from your doctor. Read our medical disclaimer.