Indications
Mentha arvensis, also called corn mint or wild mint (pudina), is a medicinal herb used in Unani and Ayurvedic medicine. Preparations made from its leaves, such as mint water (arq) or extracts, are traditionally used to ease indigestion, bloating, gas, nausea, stomach cramps and loss of appetite. Scientific evidence for these uses is limited, and the product is not a cure for any disease.
How It Works
Mint leaves contain an aromatic oil rich in menthol. Menthol is thought to relax the smooth muscle of the stomach and intestine (an antispasmodic effect), which may reduce cramping and trapped gas. Its cooling taste and smell may also help ease a feeling of nausea.
Dosage and Administration
Use as directed on the label or by a registered Unani or Ayurvedic practitioner. Liquid preparations are usually taken after meals, measured with the cup or spoon provided. Do not take more than the label amount, and do not give to young children unless a practitioner advises it.
Interactions
Mint can relax the valve between the stomach and the food pipe, so it may worsen heartburn when taken with other medicines that do the same. Concentrated mint oil may affect how the liver handles some medicines, such as Ciclosporin. Antacids can make enteric-coated mint oil capsules dissolve too early. Tell your doctor or pharmacist about all medicines and herbal products you use.
Contraindications
- Known allergy to mint or menthol.
- Infants and very young children: menthol near the face can cause breathing problems.
- Severe acid reflux (GERD) or a hiatus hernia, unless a doctor advises it.
- Gallstones or blocked bile ducts, unless a doctor advises it.
Side Effects
Mint preparations are usually well tolerated in the amounts on the label. Possible side effects include heartburn, a burning feeling in the mouth or stomach, nausea and, rarely, skin rash or other allergic reactions.
Get urgent medical help if you notice swelling of the face, lips or throat, difficulty breathing, severe stomach pain, or black or bloody stools.
Pregnancy and Lactation
Mint used in normal food amounts is generally considered safe. There is not enough information on concentrated medicinal mint products in pregnancy or breastfeeding, so use them only after advice from a doctor.
Precautions and Warnings
See a doctor if stomach symptoms last more than two weeks, keep coming back, or come with weight loss, vomiting, difficulty swallowing, blood in the stool or fever, as these may need proper investigation. Keep concentrated mint oil away from the eyes and never apply it to the face of a baby.
Overdose
Taking large amounts, especially of concentrated mint oil, may cause stomach pain, vomiting, drowsiness, confusion, unsteady walking and a slow heartbeat. Seek medical help straight away if a large amount has been swallowed, particularly by a child.
Therapeutic Class
Unani and Ayurvedic herbal preparation (carminative and digestive aid).
Storage
Store below 30°C in a dry place, away from light and out of the reach of children. Keep the bottle tightly closed.
Prepared by the Oshud Alo team from standard drug references. For information only; always follow your doctor's advice.