In addition to being a popular flavoring, peppermint has a history of use for digestive symptoms, including indigestion, nausea, cramps and diarrhea, as well as for headaches and colds. The main active ingredient is the phytochemical menthol, which can help relax stomach muscles, improving the flow of bile, and allowing food to pass through the stomach faster. In some studies, the symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome improved considerably among people taking peppermint capsules, though in others there was no benefit.
Back in January of 2012, we blogged about the benefits of peppermint and lavender essential oils in helping to manage migraine headaches. Dr. Alexander Mauskop, MD, director of the New York Headache Center recommends inhaling the scents to avoid smells that may trigger an attack. Migrastick is a small, inexpensive roller-ball stick that contains peppermint and lavender essential oils. Dr. Mauskop encourages patients who get stuck on a train or bus next to a heavy cologne wearer to take the roller-ball out, and inhale….. Mayo Clinic Guide to Alternative Medicine, 2013 HeadWise Volume 1, Issue 3