Indications
Pudina is the common South Asian name for mint, usually spearmint (Mentha spicata) or field mint (Mentha arvensis), with peppermint (Mentha piperita) used in some products. Mint leaves and their oil are traditionally used for indigestion, gas and bloating, stomach cramps, nausea and the discomfort of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). Peppermint oil has reasonable evidence for easing IBS symptoms; evidence for other uses is more limited.
How It Works
Mint contains menthol and other aromatic oils. These relax the smooth muscle of the gut wall, which can ease cramps and help trapped gas pass. Menthol also gives a cooling feeling and may reduce nausea.
Dosage and Administration
Take as directed on the label or by a registered practitioner, usually after meals. Swallow capsules whole if the label says so; do not chew enteric-coated capsules, as this can cause heartburn.
Interactions
Antacids, Omeprazole, Ranitidine and similar medicines may make enteric-coated peppermint capsules dissolve too early, causing heartburn; take them at least 2 hours apart. Concentrated peppermint oil may affect blood levels of Cyclosporine and some other medicines broken down by the liver; ask a pharmacist if you take regular medicines.
Contraindications
- Allergy to mint or menthol.
- Gastro-oesophageal reflux disease (GERD) or hiatus hernia, as mint can worsen heartburn.
- Gallstones or blocked bile ducts, unless a doctor agrees.
- Mint oil products should not be applied near the face of babies and young children, as menthol can cause breathing problems.
Side Effects
Heartburn, a burning feeling around the back passage, nausea and allergic reactions such as rash can occur, mostly with concentrated oil products.
Get urgent medical help if you have severe abdominal pain, chest pain, difficulty swallowing, vomiting blood, or signs of a serious allergic reaction such as swelling of the face or difficulty breathing.
Pregnancy and Lactation
Mint in food and tea is considered safe. Concentrated mint oil products should be used in pregnancy and breastfeeding only if a doctor advises it, as safety data are limited.
Precautions and Warnings
See a doctor if digestive symptoms are new after age 40, persist for more than 2 weeks, or come with weight loss, vomiting, difficulty swallowing or blood in the stool. Keep concentrated oil products away from children.
Overdose
Large amounts of mint oil can cause stomach pain, vomiting, drowsiness, and in severe cases fits or breathing problems, especially in children. Get urgent medical help if a child swallows mint oil.
Therapeutic Class
Herbal preparation (carminative and antispasmodic) for digestive complaints.
Storage
Store below 30°C in a dry place, away from light and out of the reach of children. Keep the container tightly closed.
Prepared by the Oshud Alo team from standard drug references. For information only; always follow your doctor's advice.