The Peppermint Oil Laxative Effect: How Soon Is Too Soon?

Peppermint oil is a popular natural remedy for various ailments, including digestive issues. It is often used to relieve symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), such as pain, constipation, bloating, and gas. While it is generally considered safe for adults, there are some precautions to take when using peppermint oil, especially for young children.

When taken by mouth, peppermint oil can help reduce stomach pain, bloating, and gas, and increase bowel movements in people with IBS. It is also used to relax the colon during medical procedures and to relieve nausea and vomiting caused by cancer treatment. However, it is important to note that peppermint oil should not be used by everyone. For example, people with severe gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) or gallstones should avoid using peppermint oil.

The usual dose of peppermint oil for adults is 1 to 2 capsules, taken 3 times a day, and it can take up to 1 to 2 weeks to take full effect. It is important to follow the instructions provided with the capsules or consult a doctor for advice on dosage.

How does peppermint oil work as a laxative?

Peppermint oil is a natural remedy that has been used for hundreds of years to treat various ailments. It is commonly used to help with digestive problems, such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), constipation, bloating, and gas. The oil is typically consumed in the form of capsules, which are often enteric-coated to prevent them from dissolving in the stomach and causing heartburn and indigestion.

The main active ingredient in peppermint oil is menthol, which gives it a cooling effect. Menthol has been found to have antispasmodic properties, meaning it helps to relax the muscles in the colon and reduce pain. This is particularly useful for people with IBS, as the nerves in their colon are often hypersensitive, causing pain in the gut. The menthol in peppermint oil can dull these pain receptors and relax the muscles, providing relief from IBS symptoms.

In addition to its antispasmodic effects, peppermint oil may also help to improve bile flow, which aids in the digestion of fats. As a result, food passes through the stomach more quickly, which can be beneficial for people with constipation. However, it is important to note that peppermint oil should not be used by people with gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) as it can relax the sphincter between the stomach and oesophagus, allowing stomach acids to flow back up and potentially worsening symptoms of heartburn and indigestion.

The typical dose of peppermint oil for adults is 0.2-0.4 ml taken three times a day. It is recommended to take the oil in capsule form, and it may take up to 1-2 weeks for the full effects to be noticeable. While peppermint oil is generally considered safe, it is always advisable to consult a doctor before starting any new supplement, especially for children or those who are pregnant or breastfeeding.

What are the side effects of peppermint oil?

Peppermint oil is generally considered safe for oral and topical use in adults when used in commonly recommended doses. However, it can cause several side effects, including:

• Heartburn and indigestion: Non-enteric-coated peppermint oil capsules can cause or worsen heartburn and nausea. Even enteric-coated capsules may increase the risk of heartburn if taken at the same time as prescription or over-the-counter medications that decrease stomach acid.
• Allergic reactions: Rarely, peppermint oil can cause allergic reactions, including anaphylaxis. Symptoms of a serious allergic reaction include swelling of the lips, mouth, throat, or tongue, breathing difficulties, a tight throat, skin, tongue, or lips turning blue, grey, or pale, confusion, drowsiness, dizziness, and rash.
• Skin irritation: Topical application of peppermint oil can cause skin rashes and irritation. Menthol, a component of peppermint oil, can be irritating to some skin types, causing redness or burning.
• Anal irritation: Some people may experience a burning feeling around the anus during bouts of diarrhea.
• Other side effects: Less commonly, peppermint oil may cause abdominal pain, dry mouth, flushing, headache, mouth sores, and slow heartbeat.

It is important to note that peppermint oil is not recommended for everyone. Pregnant and breastfeeding women, children, and individuals with certain medical conditions, such as liver disease, gallstones, or severe gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), should consult a healthcare professional before using peppermint oil.

How much peppermint oil should be taken?

The dosage of peppermint oil varies depending on age and the form in which it is taken.

Capsule form

The usual dose of peppermint oil for adults and children aged 12 and over is 1 capsule, taken 3 times a day until symptoms improve. Each capsule is typically taken with water around 1 hour before meals. If 1 capsule does not help, the dose can be increased to 2 capsules, 3 times a day.

Oil form

Peppermint oil has most often been used by adults in doses of 270-1350 mg by mouth daily for up to 4 weeks.

Children

Children aged 8 and above can take 0.1ml to 0.2ml of peppermint oil 3 times a day.

Safety

Peppermint oil is generally safe for most people when taken in the suggested dose. However, it is not suitable for those with liver disease or gallstones, among other conditions. It is also not recommended for pregnant women or those trying to conceive, as there is not enough information to determine its safety.

How is peppermint oil administered?

Peppermint oil is available in many forms, including capsules, tinctures, gels, creams, rinses, and essential oils. It is also a common ingredient in cosmetics and food products, such as toothpaste, gum, and tea.

When used as a laxative, peppermint oil is typically administered orally in the form of capsules. These capsules are often enteric-coated, which means they have a special coating that prevents them from dissolving in the stomach. Instead, they release the peppermint oil directly into the intestines, where it can provide relief from constipation and other digestive issues. This coating helps to reduce the risk of heartburn and indigestion, which can be caused by peppermint oil interacting with stomach acids.

The usual dose for adults and children aged 12 and over is one capsule, taken three times a day until symptoms improve. It is recommended to take the capsules with water and swallow them whole, without breaking or chewing them. It is also advised to take peppermint oil capsules about an hour before meals.

For those who are unable to take capsules or prefer alternative methods, peppermint oil can also be applied topically to the skin. When used in this way, it is typically diluted with a carrier oil, such as coconut or olive oil, and then massaged onto the abdomen in a circular motion. This method can help relieve pain and relax muscles, but it is important to first test a small area of skin to ensure there is no irritation or redness.

It is important to note that peppermint oil should not be given to infants or young children, as it can cause breathing problems if applied to the face or ingested in large doses. Always consult a doctor or healthcare professional before using peppermint oil, especially if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, or taking other medications.

Who should not take peppermint oil?

Peppermint oil is not suitable for everyone. Before taking peppermint oil, it is important to consult a doctor or pharmacist to ensure it is safe for you.

Peppermint oil is not recommended for children under the age of 8, or for women who are pregnant or breastfeeding.

If you have any of the following health problems, you should consult a doctor or pharmacist before taking peppermint oil:

• Heartburn (gastroesophageal reflux disease, or GERD)
• Stomach or intestinal ulcers
• Liver disease
• Gallbladder disease
• Bile duct blockage
• Allergic reaction to peppermint oil or any other medicine
• Gallstones
• Severe constipation
• Ulcerative colitis
• Reflux disease

Additionally, if you are allergic to peanuts, be sure to check the brand of peppermint oil, as some brands contain arachis oil.

Frequently asked questions