Peppermint provides many remedies, primarily for digestive problems and upset stomach. Peppermint can be taken in pills, drops and teas. Several controlled trials have proven the positive effects of peppermint oil on irritable bowel syndrome, showing that it relaxes the muscles of the intestines, helping relieve the pain and cramping associated with IBS. However, caution must be used because large amounts of peppermint oil, especially when taking drops, can cause heartburn, negating its positive effects.
Peppermint Tea
Tea is the most common form of peppermint served to ease digestive problems. Tea can be served hot or cold, either by adding the leaves to the tea or purchasing commercially prepared tea in bag form. In case you don't like the taste of tea, add peppermint leaves to another beverage and mix them in to allow the oils to blend into the drink.
Peppermint tea is gentle enough for use on infants with upset stomachs. As little as a tablespoon of peppermint tea can help ease a baby's digestive upset. However, a baby may not like the taste, in which case you may place a warm wash rag soaked in peppermint tea on the baby's stomach. This will help alleviate the symptoms.
Peppermint Oil Pills
Peppermint oil can be taken in pill form as well, though it requires more caution. Make sure that peppermint oil pills are enteric-coated because this coating ensures the pills will reach the intestines before dissolving. If the oil were to dissolve in the esophagus or top of the stomach, it would cause heartburn or acid reflux, negating its positive effects on the intestinal region.
Peppermint Oil Drops
Peppermint oil drops are used in different ways to help treat digestive problems. Drops can be placed in the palm and rubbed around the navel and over the stomach area, allowing time to soak into the intestinal area to relieve indigestion, gas, nausea or diarrhea. Drops can also be placed into herbal teas as an aid for digestive problems.
Tags: digestive problems, positive effects, cause heartburn, like taste, negating positive