Preliminary studies have shown that patients suffering from various intestinal problems, experienced relief after taking peppermint oil in supplemental form. These positive results indicate that these supplements have high medicinal value.
When it comes to curing common ailments, we run helter-skelter to look for over the counter medication. Very few of us actually go for natural remedies that are undoubtedly more reliable and provide immediate relief. Talking about natural solutions to some common diseases and one simply cannot forget to mention about peppermint oil capsules. The essential oil is extracted from the plant and when taken in supplemental form may help to treat a wide range of medical problems, as found out through preliminary studies.
Benefits
We all know how inhaling this essential oil is helpful in relieving headache and nasal congestion associated with common cold. If inhaling this essential oil has its advantages then taking it in supplemental form may be equally beneficial, as revealed from studies.
Improves Digestion Problems
Indigestion that is common in today’s hectic lifestyle may improve through intake of peppermint oil capsules. Indigestion symptoms that typically manifest after a heavy meal include nausea and flatulence. In order to get relief from these symptoms, taking these capsules may be beneficial. The essential oil stimulates production of bile (a digestive juice that promotes breakdown of fats from ingested food), which in turn contributes to relieve indigestion.
Relieves Bloating
Trapped intestinal gas due to indigestion, often leads to bloating. Many times, activities like walking do not provide much assistance in relieving gas. Taking these capsules may help to expel the gas.
Alleviates Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) Symptoms
Recent studies in which irritable bowel syndrome sufferers were treated with peppermint oil capsules proved that it is possible to considerably decrease the severity of IBS symptoms like abdominal pain, diarrhea and constipation by taking this essential oil in supplemental form. To be precise, IBS patients responded quite well when they were put on these capsules.
Side Effects
Some did develop health problems like dizziness and headache that were linked to oral administration of peppermint oil supplements. However, this doesn’t mean that every person taking this capsule will suffer from its side effects. This totally depends on individual health and strength of capsules. Some of the side effects are given below:
Allergic Reactions
People who are allergic to this essential oil are likely to experience its side effects that manifest in the form of skin problems (hives, rashes) and this may be followed by inability to breathe properly.
Heartburn
Heartburn, also referred to as gastroesophageal reflux disease is a condition in which the stomach acids suddenly travel upwards and enter the food pipe. Taking this essential oil relaxes the stomach muscles but sometimes this relaxing effect does not remain confined to the stomach and also affects the sphincter (a muscular tissue just at the end of food pipe that usually prevents stomach acids from moving inside). As the sphincter muscle relaxes, it becomes ineffective in blocking the stomach acids. This is the reason why a person may complain about heartburn symptoms after taking these capsules.
Where to Buy
As the essential oil can be used for medicinal purposes, one can always find it at various drug stores or health food stores. In case, these supplements are unavailable at medical stores (a rarity), one can browse the Internet to look for online drugstores that accept orders for these capsules.
A point to note here is that overdose of this essential oil can cause worrisome side effects like seizures and brain dysfunction. So, taking small strength capsules is recommended to prevent any serious health consequences. On the whole, although preliminary studies indicate the health benefits of peppermint oil supplements, their usage is not endorsed by the USFDA. Hence, talk to your health care provider before using it for your health concerns.
Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is solely for educating the reader. It is not intended to be a substitute for the advice of a medical expert.
