Peppermint Oil Side Effects

It is a common misconception that herbs, being natural, are safe and do not cause any side effects. While, natural substances can also cause side effects in some people, it is also harmful for those, who use it improperly and excessively. This applies to herbs too, which are plants widely used for their flavor, scent and other properties. Humans have been using various types of herbs, throughout the centuries, for cooking, as medicines and for spiritual purposes. Owing to the popularity of herbs across the globe, nowadays, commercial preparations like soaps, toothpaste and cosmetics, are also manufactured with herb extracts as ingredients.

Peppermint and Peppermint Oil

Peppermint is considered as one of the world's oldest herbal medicines. This is backed by archaeological evidence, which suggests that the use of peppermint dates back to at least ten thousand years. It is believed that this herb has excellent antimicrobial, antioxidant, antispasmodic and anti tumor properties. Peppermint is very popular for its medicinal properties and are used to treat various health conditions, like, indigestion, respiratory problems, headache, nausea, stomach and bowel spasms, fever and pain. Peppermint oil is also used to treat most of the medical conditions, stated above.

This essential oil is extracted by steam distillation of fresh or partly dried peppermint plant, especially the leaves and is widely used in aromatherapy. Like peppermint, peppermint essential oil too has various therapeutic benefits, owing to its chemical components, like, menthol, cineole, menthone, methyl acetate, limonene and methofuran. Peppermint oil, besides being widely used in many commercial preparations, are also used to treat many health conditions. According to some recent researches, peppermint is very effective in reducing the colicky abdominal pain associated with irritable bowel syndrome. But, like in case of any other essential oil, peppermint oil side effects are also not uncommon in people, who use it improperly or excessively.

Peppermint oil is very much concentrated and potent. It is not toxic and does not cause any skin irritation, in low dilutions, but some people may be sensitive to this product. The following are some of the common peppermint side effects.

• In some people, peppermint oil may cause a slow heart rate. Hence, those with heart diseases must be beware of using products with this oil.
• Another side effect is the allergic reaction to menthol, which involves congestion of airways. So, people with allergies must avoid this essential oil.
• Skin irritation is one among the commonly reported side effects. It could be like rashes, hives, burns or contact dermatitis.
• It is also said that some of the reports suggested possible side effects when this oil is used as injections. Reports show that lung damage may be caused by such injections.
• Oral consumption of this essential oil may cause headaches, dizziness, heartburn, anal burning and muscle tremor.
• Peppermint oil dangers, in case of large doses, include brain damage, seizure and muscle weakness.

It has also been observed that most of these side effects are mainly caused by its incorrect use, especially in case of self medication. However, use of this oil is not recommended for pregnant ladies, infants and kids, people affected by heart disease, gallstones and some other health conditions. So, intake or any other medicinal use of peppermint oil must be as per the instructions of a qualified herbal practitioner. You must also tell him, whatever medical conditions, you have or about the medications you take. It is always better to take the opinion of your doctor, before starting any herbal treatment. If you experience any of these side effects, you must immediately discontinue its use and seek medical attention. Peppermint oil, which has numerous medicinal properties, must be used properly and under the supervision of a qualified herbal practitioner, in order to prevent its side effects.