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.