Peppermint Oil: This Remedy May Ease Your Headaches, IBS & Nasal Congestion

The fresh and invigorating zing of peppermint may be most commonly praised in chewing gum commercials, but there's much more to this ancient herb than minty fresh breath. Peppermint, and more specifically peppermint oil, has long been used for both its medicinal and cosmetic properties.

When it comes to herbal dietary supplements that pack a punch, peppermint is high on the list. If you've heard about the health benefits of peppermint oil and are curious about whether it's worth exploring, you're in the right place.

"Peppermint oil can help migraines, muscle tension, cold symptoms and coughs, and more," says Taz Bhatia, M.D., integrative medicine physician and mbg Collective member. "The leaves contain menthol and the oils can have many vitamins and nutrients including magnesium, potassium, and vitamins A and C."

Peppermint is an ancient herb native to the Mediterranean whose health benefits can be traced back to Japanese and Chinese folklore. Dating back to 1000 BCE, dried peppermint leaves were even found in ancient period tombs in Egypt.

You've probably heard that sipping on peppermint tea or sucking on a peppermint candy can help settle an upset tummy. But did you know that scientific research has shown that it's effective in treating irritable bowel syndrome?

One study1 that gauged the efficacy of peppermint oil (in sustained release capsules) on IBS found that it eased symptoms by 40 percent over the course of four weeks, compared to 24 percent in the placebo group. Even more impressive, a review of nine scientific studies2 concluded that patients with IBS who took peppermint oil for two weeks fared better than patients receiving a placebo treatment. Peppermint has been shown to relax digestive system3 muscles and decrease pain and cramping, which could make it a useful remedy for people with the occasional bloating, gas, or upset stomach.

The World Health Organization estimates that about 50 percent of people4 in the United States have experienced a headache in the past 12 months. Tension headaches are the most common type of headache and are noted by discomfort in the head, scalp, or neck. More often than not, it's a result of muscle tightness in these areas.

Peppermint, however, is here to help due to its ability to help relax muscles. It has even been shown to beat out powerful pharmaceuticals when it comes to headache relief. One study5, in which a peppermint oil solution was spread across the forehead and temples, found that peppermint was as effective as taking 1,000 mg of oral acetaminophen. Pretty impressive for a bushy green plant.

You know that feeling in your nostrils when you take a whiff of something minty? That sharp, fresh rush that feels like a cool breeze blowing through your nose? That feeling is where peppermint's cold-kicking properties lie. Research6 has shown that the aromatic compounds in peppermint oil can help clear clogged sinuses associated with the common cold and sinus infections.

One of the active compounds in peppermint that you're likely already familiar with is menthol. Studies3 have indicated that the menthol in peppermint can create the perception of cleared nasal passages, even if it isn't actually clearing them. Sometimes that perceived feeling of relief can be all you need to get a good night's sleep.

Peppermint is a popular ingredient in hygiene products like shampoo, and it may have benefits beyond that invigorating clean feeling it provides. One study8 on mice found that application of a 3 percent peppermint oil solution was more effective in treating hair loss than a traditional, FDA-approved hair growth product called minoxidil. Other research9 has shown that, in general, menthol can help increase blood circulation, which may stimulate hair growth. Additionally, some research suggests that peppermint oil is a viable natural lice treatment.

Peppermint oil can be found anywhere essential oils are sold (Whole Foods Market, health food stores, pharmacies, etc.), as well as online. Amazon offers several brands with customer reviews and ratings to help you find the right option for you.