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Brand Names:

Generic Name: peppermint (Pronunciation: PEH per mint)

• What is peppermint ()?
• What are the possible side effects of peppermint ()?
• What is the most important information I should know about peppermint ()?
• What should I discuss with my health care provider before using peppermint ()?
• How should I take peppermint ()?
• What happens if I miss a dose ()?
• What happens if I overdose ()?
• What should I avoid while taking peppermint ()?
• What other drugs will affect peppermint ()?
• Where can I get more information?

What is peppermint ()?

The use of peppermint in cultural and traditional settings may differ from concepts accepted by current Western medicine. When considering the use of herbal supplements, consultation with a primary health care professional is advisable. Additionally, consultation with a practitioner trained in the uses of herbal/health supplements may be beneficial, and coordination of treatment among all health care providers involved may be advantageous.

Peppermint is also known as Mentha piperita, brandy mint, and lamb mint.

Peppermint has been used for liver and gallbladder complaints, loss of appetite, nausea, vomiting, respiratory infections, menstrual cramps, toothache, the common cold, cough, and fever. Topically, peppermint has been used for muscle and nerve pain and as an antiseptic.

Peppermint has not been evaluated by the FDA for safety, effectiveness, or purity. All potential risks and/or advantages of peppermint may not be known. Additionally, there are no regulated manufacturing standards in place for these compounds. There have been instances where herbal/health supplements have been sold which were contaminated with toxic metals or other drugs. Herbal/health supplements should be purchased from a reliable source to minimize the risk of contamination.

Peppermint may also have uses other than those listed in this medication guide.

What are the possible side effects of peppermint ()?

Although rare, allergic reactions to peppermint may occur. Stop taking peppermint and seek emergency medical attention if you experience symptoms of a serious allergic reaction including difficulty breathing; closing of your throat; swelling of your lips, tongue, or face; or hives.

Highly concentrated peppermint products may also cause mouth irritation or ulcerations. Stop using peppermint if you experience mouth discomfort or sores in the mouth.

Worsening of gallstone or hiatal hernia symptoms may occur in individuals with those conditions.

Other less serious side effects have not been reported, although they may occur. Talk to your doctor about any side effect that seems unusual or that is especially bothersome.

What is the most important information I should know about peppermint ()?

Do not take peppermint without first talking to your doctor if you have a blockage of the gallbladder or bile ducts, gallbladder inflammation, gallstones, or liver damage.

Peppermint has not been evaluated by the FDA for safety, effectiveness, or purity. All potential risks and/or advantages of peppermint may not be known. Additionally, there are no regulated manufacturing standards in place for these compounds. There have been instances where herbal/health supplements have been sold which were contaminated with toxic metals or other drugs. Herbal/health supplements should be purchased from a reliable source to minimize the risk of contamination.