Studies have provided promising results about peppermint oil for IBS. Peppermint oil derives from the peppermint plant Mentha Piperita. This oil is from a carminative herb. Therefore, it works well for digestive issues like IBS. Monoterpene compounds in peppermint target the Irritable Bowel Syndrome symptoms.
The oil also reduces pain, flatulence, bloating, and constipation linked to IBS. So, peppermint oil is not just for lip balms or relaxing aromatherapy massages. It works wonders for IBS, too.
Why Take Peppermint Oil for IBS?
Peppermint oil for IBS patients works well(1). Peppermint oil contains L-menthol. IBS patients face stomach spasms due to malfunctioning of the gastrointestinal/GI tract. Try peppermint oil known for its antispasmodic effects. L-menthol blocks smooth muscle calcium channels.
Peppermint oil also possesses antimicrobial, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anesthetic properties. All of these benefit IBS patients. From case reports to observational studies, there is research support for the benefits of peppermint oil for IBS.
[Read: Treat IBS Naturally]
Antispasmodic
Peppermint oil relieves IBS symptoms such as bloating and constipation because of antispasmodic properties. The menthol in peppermint relaxes the smooth muscles in the intestine. Research on peppermint supplements for pain management has also found pain-relieving effects.
Australian studies have found when IBS patients get symptoms, the nerve fibers in the colon become hypersensitive. This sensitivity manifests as abdominal pain. A high concentration of menthol in peppermint or peppermint oil cools the spasms and excites a specific anti-pain pathway called TRPM8. This pathway reduces IBS pain because pain-sensing fibers are less sensitive when peppermint oil is used to cure this GI condition.
Countering Heartburn
Another big problem associated with IBS is heartburn. Researchers in different studies have found peppermint oil soothes typical GI symptoms like heartburn, burning, and discomfort in IBS. Researchers have even recommended peppermint oil to be a treatment of choice for those suffering from mild IBS.
Promotes Gut Motility
Peppermint oil also improves gut motility. The menthol in peppermint oil reduces gut spasms. Peppermint oil is as effective as prescription anti-pain and anti-spasm medication. The American Gastroenterology College even suggests peppermint oil be a frontline cure for managing IBS symptoms(2).
Another study found peppermint oil supplements lowered children’s abdominal pain after just two weeks. Pain management, therefore, is one of the clear benefits of choosing peppermint oil for IBS relief. Menthol further dulls pain receptors and relaxes colon muscles.
[Read: Essential Oils for IBS]
How to Take Peppermint Oil for IBS?
Peppermint oil can be taken in the form of capsules or supplements for the best outcome.
Peppermint Supplements: For adults, the prescribed dosage, according to some experts, is 0.2-0.4 ml of oil thrice a day. For children aged eight or more, 0.1-0.2 ml of peppermint should be taken three times per day. If you use antacids, don’t try these at the same time as peppermint oil capsules. The reason is that they break the capsule coating and worsen heartburn. Peppermint oil in the right dose is essential, as it impacts digestion and organ functioning.
Peppermint oil: Peppermint oil is present in liquid, form as well. Capsules include enteric-coated ones. Such tablets are recommended for IBS patients. The fact that IBS is a chronic condition means medicines cannot be taken safely for extended periods. For those seeking a natural cure, peppermint oil for IBS is ideal. However, the peppermint oil for IBS dosage depends on the strength and ingredients of supplements or capsules. Peppermint oil is a safe, useful natural cure.
When you purchase peppermint oil supplements or products, check the label to see the ingredients or supplement facts to understand what is present in the product. NIH recommends looking for a third-party quality testing seal of approval from organizations like the US FDA, Consumer Lab, and NSF International.
Such approval seals guarantee the product was manufactured correctly, and it is not contaminated in any way. Studies on IBS patients show 180-225 milligrams of peppermint oil or 1 to 2 enteric-coated capsules are best. As with any remedy, always get clearance from your doctor before proceeding to take tablets.
Thus, peppermint oil has a lot of benefits for IBS patients. It improves gut motility and dispels symptoms of IBS such as gas, bloating, pain, and discomfort. Peppermint oil can be taken in either liquid or capsule form for the best results. IBS patients should ideally take enteric-coated capsules of peppermint oil for instant relief.
[Read: Home Remedies for IBS]
FAQs
1. Describe How to Take Peppermint Oil For IBS?
Peppermint oil for IBS can be taken in the form of capsules or liquid oil. Peppermint oil has a beneficial effect when made in the form of enteric-coated capsules for IBS patients.
2. Share How to Use Peppermint Oil For IBS?
Peppermint oil for IBS works well when it is taken in a quantity of around 180-225 mg in adults. This works out to two regular capsules of peppermint oil in a day.
3. Indicate What Does Peppermint Oil Do For IBS?
Peppermint oil for IBS reduces nausea, pain, gas, discomfort, bloating, and colon hypersensitivity. This herbal oil serves to improve gut motility. Peppermint oil is a potent antimicrobial agent, so it fights IBS due to stomach issues.
