This formula was not only shown to reduce headaches, improve mood and decrease irritability, but there was good evidence to explain why it is beneficial. As most oral medications come with side-effects, a natural and cost-effective alternative in the form of peppermint is welcomed.Ĭomplementary findings have been published using a similar solution, which also included a small amount of eucalyptus oil. What is more is that the potency of this benefit rivalled that of oral prescribed medication. One study has shown that a solution containing 10% peppermint oil was able to substantially reduce the severity of headaches in as little as 15 minutes. To add to peppermints impressive benefits, it has also been shown consistently to help relieve headaches when applied topically to the temples. This relaxing effect has been shown to last up to two weeks, but unfortunately it is not a permanent cure as cessation of supplementation sees the symptoms return. It is thought that peppermint exerts its benefit by interfering with the chemical process that causes the muscles to be over-active. IBS is thought to be partially caused by an overactive digestive system which can cause the muscles of the digestive tract to go into a spasm. The scientists running the investigation concluded that taking peppermint between two to four times daily had the ability to cut the prevalence and severity of symptoms in half! These are massively impressive findings that should significantly benefit the lives of IBS sufferers.īut how does peppermint work? Peppermint belongs to a group called antispasmodics, which are compounds that possess muscle-relaxing properties. This study provided strong evidence to suggest that taking peppermint is effective for combatting stomach pain and diarrhoea. On the topic of peppermint for IBS sufferers, a meta-analysis conducted in 2008 analysed the data of 12 studies which recruited, in total, almost 600 participants. This is because they use advanced statistical methods to analyse numerous previous studies that have all sought to answer the same question. Meta-analysis studies are known in the science community for being the pinnacle of scientific evidence. Not only that, the benefit seems to be quite impressive. Thankfully, the evidence base corroborates the anecdotes, as numerous studies are in agreement that peppermint is effective for calming IBS symptoms. The most common symptoms of IBS are stomach cramps, bloating, diarrhoea and constipation, and these can last for days or even months at a time. IBS is a condition that is thought to affect between 10-20% of the UK population. What Are the Health Benefits of Peppermint? DigestionĪs alluded to earlier, peppermint has been touted as an effective supplement for easing digestive problems namely Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS). With that said, let’s delve into the research and assess the strength of the evidence behind this famed botanical. Like with all areas of nutrition, it is important to have an in-depth look at the scientific evidence to see if claims around a food or supplement are substantiated. Traditionally, peppermint and peppermint oil have been used as calming aids, and there are widespread anecdotal reports of a benefit to the digestive system. Peppermint is renowned for its powerful concentration of menthol which is its primary active ingredient. Peppermint ( Metha piperita) is actually a hybrid plant made from crossing watermint and spearmint. In this article, we’ll discuss peppermint in depth so you can see whether it would be a good addition to your diet. Aside from this, peppermint is actually becoming recognised for its health benefits, with numerous studies outlining a benefit for various conditions. The plant species peppermint has been known for years due to its pleasant and refreshing taste, which has seen it become a popular after-dinner addition.
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