Use Of Peppermint Oil Research Articles

Phytotherapeutic recommendations in medical guidelines for the treatment of gastroenterological diseases - a systematic review

Phytotherapeutics are gaining influence in the treatment of gastroenterological diseases. Their popularity and growing evidence of efficacy contribute to their integration into medical guidelines. A systematic screening identified recommended phytotherapeutic approaches. Based on current scientific data, some recommendations for the use of phytotherapeutic agents are given. For irritable bowel syndrome the use of peppermint oil is "strongly recommended", especially for pain and flatulence. Other phytotherapeutics such as STW-5, Tibetan Padma Lax or warm caraway oil pads have proven effective in alleviating symptoms. It is "recommended" to integrate them into the treatment concept. For chronic constipation, 30g of fiber per day is recommended. Best data exists for plantago psyllium with moderate evidence and chicory inulin. In case of ulcerative colitis, plantago psyllium as well as the combination of myrrh, chamomile flower extract, and coffee charcoal can be used as a complementary treatment in maintaining remission. There is also an "open recommendation" for curcumin for both, remission induction and maintenance. Some phytotherapeutic treatments (e.g., Artemisia absintium, Boswellia serata) show evidence of effectiveness for the treatment of Crohn's disease, but data are not yet sufficient for recommendations. Cannabis-based medicines can be considered for abdominal pain and clinically relevant appetite loss if standard therapy is ineffective or contraindicated, but they should not be used for acute inflammation in active Crohn's disease. Further recommendations for other gastroenterological diseases are discussed. The safety and tolerability of the phytotherapeutics were rated as predominantly "very good" to "acceptable". Some clear recommendations for the use of phytotherapeutics to treat gastroenterological diseases show their great potential. Due to their wide range of effects, phytotherapeutics can be used very well as a complement to conventional medicines in case of complex regulatory disorders. However, further methodologically well-conducted impact studies would be helpful in order to be able to make further recommendations.

A carrageenan-based edible coating incorporating with peppermint essential oils to increase shelf life of bananas (Musa acuminata cavendish)

Ambon bananas (Musa acuminata cavendish) are nutritious and economically valuable fruits. Bananas, being a climacteric fruit, have the potential to undergo deterioration subsequent to the harvesting process. The utilization of an edible coating on bananas has demonstrated potential in delaying spoilage, whereas the substantial use of peppermint oil has been observed in the preservation of fruit freshness. This research investigated how a carrageenan-based coating and peppermint essential oil enhance banana shelf life. This research compares uncoated bananas, carrageenan-coated bananas, and carrageenan-peppermint-coated bananas. Weight loss, total soluble solids (TSS), pH, colour, and water activity were tested. In this study, it was observed that the application of a carrageenan edible coating resulted in a reduction in weight loss and TSS as compared to bananas that were not coated. Duncan's test shows statistically significant discrepancy in weight loss among bananas that have undergone different treatments, thereby influencing the overall weight loss outcome. There are variations in pH levels and aw values. Meanwhile, pH and water activity of coated and uncoated bananas were relatively the same and stable during storage, so the carrageenan edible coating treatment and the addition of peppermint essential oil had no effect. The findings indicate that edible coatings made from carrageenan have the ability to inhibit the ripening process of bananas. Nevertheless, the efficacy of this inhibition decreases when peppermint essential oil is given as a supplementary constituent.

The Use of Peppermint Oil in Gastroenterology.

For decades, mint has been used worldwide for its relieving effects against gastrointestinal disturbances. Peppermint is a perennial herb common in Europe and North America. The active ingredient of peppermint oil is menthol and has various gastroenterological and non-gastroenterological uses, especially in the context of functional gastrointestinal disorders (FGIDs). We conducted a literature search on the main medical databases for original articles, reviews, meta-analyses, randomized clinical trials, and case series using the following keywords and acronyms and their associations: peppermint oil, gastro-intestinal motility, irritable bowel syndrome, functional dyspepsia, gastrointestinal sensitivity and gastrointestinal endoscopy. Peppermint oil and its constituents exert smooth muscle relaxant and anti-spasmodic effects on the lower esophageal sphincter, stomach, duodenum, and large bowel. Moreover, peppermint oil can modulate visceral and central nervous system sensitivity. Taken together, these effects suggest using peppermint oil both for improved endoscopic performance and for treating functional dyspepsia and irritable bowel syndrome. Importantly, peppermint oil has an attractive safety profile compared to classical pharmacological treatments, especially in FGIDs. Peppermint oil is a safe herbal medicine therapy for application in gastroenterology, with promising scientific perspectives and rapidly expanding use in clinical practice.

Treatment options for patients with overlap of functional dyspepsia and irritable bowel syndrome

Оbjective — to study the characteristics of changes in intestinal dysbiosis and psychoemotional status in patients with overlap of functional dyspepsia (FD) and irritable dowel syndrome (IBS) and to evaluate the efficacy of peppermint oil application in the treatment of such patients.
 Materials and methods. Examinations involved 92 patients with overlap of FD and IBS, from them 35 (38.0 %) men and 57 (62.0 %) women. Young patients (up to 45 years old) prevailed: 72 subjects (78.3 %). Epigastric pain syndrome was detected in 12 (13.0 %) patients, postprandial distress syndrome in 21 (22.8 %) patients, and 59 (64.1 %) patients had a mixed FD form. IBS with alternating constipation and diarrhea was diagnosed in 51 out of 59 (86.4 %) patients with the mixed FD form. Psychological testing was conducted to assess the psycho‑emotional status. The HADS scale was used to detect anxiety‑depressive disorders. Before and after treatment, all patients completed the SF‑36 quality of life (QoL) questionnaires. To diagnose the condition of the intestinal microbiota, presence of bacterial intestinal overgrowth syndrome (SIBO) was determined with the use of a hydrogen breath test with lactulose loading.
 Results. The use of the drug «Capsumen» in the complex treatment of patients with FD and IBS contributed to a rapid decrease in the intensity of abdominal pain (AP) (p < 0.05). In addition to positive clinical dynamics and AP relief, normalization of the intestinal microbiome was found in the patients. The SIBO frequency in patients who received «Capsumen» significantly decreased compared to the initial indexes and did not significantly differ from the data of healthy individuals. In all patients with FD and IBS, on the background of therapy, quality of life increased and anxiety‑depressive disorders decreased, compared to the data before treatment (p < 0.05).
 Conclusions. The use of peppermint oil in patients with FD and IBS demonstrated to be efficient and safe. The decrease in the abdominal pain frequency and intensity has been registered, in combination with the positive effects on the intestinal microbiome and normalization of quality of life, and minimizing anxiety‑depressive disorders.

A trial-based economic evaluation of peppermint oil for the treatment of irritable bowel syndrome.

BackgroundIrritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) is a prevalent, chronic gastrointestinal disorder that imposes a substantial socioeconomic burden. Peppermint oil is a frequently used treatment for IBS, but evidence about cost‐effectiveness is lacking.ObjectiveWe aimed to assess cost‐effectiveness of small‐intestinal release peppermint oil versus placebo in IBS patients.MethodsIn a multicenter randomized placebo‐controlled trial, cost‐effectiveness was evaluated from a societal perspective. The incremental cost‐effectiveness ratios (ICERs) were expressed as (1) incremental costs per Quality Adjusted Life Years (QALY), and (2) incremental costs per successfully treated patient, that is per abdominal pain responder (according to FDA definitions), both after an eight‐week treatment period with placebo versus peppermint oil. Cost‐utility and uncertainty were estimated using non‐parametric bootstrapping. Sensitivity analyses were performed.ResultsThe analysis comprised 126 patients (N = 64 placebo, N = 62 small‐intestinal release peppermint oil). Peppermint oil was a dominant treatment compared to placebo in 46% of bootstrap replications. Peppermint oil was also more effective but at higher cost in 31% of replications. The net‐benefit acceptability curve showed that peppermint oil has a 56% probability of being cost‐effective at a conservative willingness‐to‐pay threshold of €10.000/QALY. Peppermint oil was also a dominant treatment per additional successfully treated patient according to FDA definitions, that is in 51% of replications. In this case, the acceptability curve showed an 89% probability of being cost‐effective.ConclusionsIn patients with IBS, small‐intestinal release peppermint oil appears to be a cost‐effective treatment although there is uncertainty surrounding the ICER. When using abdominal pain responder as outcome measure for the ICER, peppermint oil has a high probability of being cost‐effective. The use of peppermint oil, which is a low‐cost treatment, can be justified by the modest QALY gains and slightly higher proportion of abdominal pain responders. More research and long‐term data are necessary to confirm the cost‐effectiveness of peppermint oil. NCT02716285.

Effect of peppermint oil and its microemulsion on necrotic enteritis in broiler chickens.

Background and Aim:Clostridium perfringens is one of the multiple drug-resistant intestinal pathogens causing necrotic enteritis disease, leading to great economic losses in poultry farms. This study aimed to evaluate the potential use of peppermint oil and its microemulsion (ME) as an alternative to antibiotics to control necrotic enteritis in broiler chickens.Materials and Methods:Peppermint oil ME formulation (15% oil/water) was prepared and characterized by zeta potential, Fourier transform infrared, high-resolution transmission electron microscopy, and liquid chromatography–mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS). The minimal inhibitory concentrations of the peppermint oil and its ME were investigated. A total of 80 commercial one day old Arbor Acres broiler chickens were randomly assigned to four groups of 20 birds each. The four groups were the negative control, positive control, peppermint oil (0.5 mL/mL water/10 days old), and its ME (0.25 mL/mL water/10 days old) groups. C. perfringens was orally provided at concentration of 1×108 CFU/mL on days 14, 15, and 16. Clinical signs and mortality were observed daily. Growth performance, gross lesions and cecal samples were investigated and examined on days 21, 28, and 35.Results:Peppermint oil ME formulation has a polydispersity index, zeta potential and droplet size of 0.234, −24 mV±4.19, and 29.96±1.56 nm, respectively. LC–MS/MS analysis of oil and ME revealed common presence of phenolic compounds such as rosmorinic (360.31 g/mol), chlorogenic acid (354.31 g/mol), hesperidin (610.56 g/mol), and luteolin 7-O-β-glucuronide (462.1 g/mol). The treated groups with peppermint oil and ME showed lower lesions, mortality and colony-forming units in addition to higher growth performance (p < 0.05) compared to the positive control group.Conclusion:Our study suggests the potential efficacy of peppermint oil and ME in the reduction of necrotic enteritis lesions and C. perfringens count.

Effect of Peppermint Oil among Sleep Apnea Individuals

Sleep disturbance or disruption is common among patients within the age limit 25-45. They often feel tired during the day time. During wakefulness which also causes sleep problems. Sleep disturbance associated with the sense of well-being, health, emotion regulation, and productivity, memory and cognitive functions. The main aim of this study is to prove the impact of peppermint oil on sleep apnea. The sample size of this study was 25 individuals and they were selected randomly. The peppermint oil is taken in a few amounts and massaged in the forehead while before sleeping. They were instructed to apply 2-3drops of oil on their forehead or spray on the pillow before going to bed. This has to be followed for 30 days. The sleeping hours and sleeping disturbances were recorded before and after using oil inhalation. Before the use of peppermint oil the sleeping hours was an average of 6.4±0.82 and after the use of peppermint oil the sleeping hours increased to an average of 7.1±1.03. Before the use of peppermint oil Sleep disturbances were of average 3.3±1.02 and after the use of peppermint oil the sleeping disturbances have been decreased to an average of 2.1±0.92. Data was collected and analysed using statistics. Peppermint oil has an effect on sleep apnea and it helps to overcome. From this study, it can be seen that a positive perception has been obtained towards the population.

Peppermint Oil Aromatherapy to Reduce Nausea in Patients During Labor

To reduce nausea in patients in labor with the use of peppermint oil aromatherapy. To reduce the need for pharmacologic intervention due to the growing interest in alternative medicine. A protocol was developed, and pharmacy was consulted. A pilot project was conducted to determine if nurses in the labor and delivery unit would use aromatherapy for nausea, the ease of use, how often it was used, and its effectiveness on reducing nausea. There were 228 completed entries in which patients rated their nausea on a scale of 0 to 5 (0 = no nausea and 5 = severe). Patients rated their nausea before and after using the oil. Nausea was decreased in 89% of the patients. Use of peppermint oil increases patients’ satisfaction while reducing the need for pharmacologic intervention.

The use of peppermint oil in the treatment of irritable bowel syndrome

Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a a chronic functional gastrointestinal disorder, that affects large intestine. The symptoms of IBS include: abdominal pain, discomfort, change in bowel habits and disordered defecation. The causes of irritable bowel syndrome have not yet been fully investigated and determined.Peppermint (Mentha ×piperita) is a hybrid type of mint, a cross between watermint (Mentha aquatica) and spearmint (Mentha spicata). Peppermint oil is produced in the proces of steam distillation of fresh leaves of peppermint.The aim of this study was to evaluate the use of peppermint oil in the treatment of irritable bowel syndrome. Our study material consisted of publications, which were found in PubMed, ResearchGate and Google Scholar databases. The first step was to find proper publications from the last 30 years. The second step was to carry out an overview of the found publications.Based on the results of mentioned studies it can be concluded that peppermin oil is effective in the treatment of irritable bowel syndrome due to providing global symptom improvement and significant reduction of abdominal pain, and its short-term use is safe. However, further research is needed to estabilish the role of peppermint oil in the treatment of irritable bowel syndrome and to determine the optimal duration of treatment, dosage of peppermint oil, and its possible side effects related to long-term usage.

Peppermint Oil: Evaluating Efficacy on Nausea in Patients Receiving Chemotherapy in the Ambulatory Setting.

Nausea is one of the most commonly reported side effects in patients receiving chemotherapy. Patients who experience nausea during chemotherapy may also experience depression, metabolic imbalances, dehydration, decreased ability to function, and treatment delays, which can ultimately affect outcomes. This study aimed to determine the efficacy of a cool damp washcloth with peppermint essential oil versus a cool damp washcloth alone on the self-reported intensity of nausea in patients receiving chemotherapy in the outpatient ambulatory setting. 79 adult patients receiving chemotherapy were recruited from an outpatient ambulatory infusion center in the southeastern United States. Patients were separated into two groups (no scent and peppermint) and asked to rate the intensity of their chemotherapy-induced nausea at pre- and postintervention using the Baxter Retching Faces pictorial scale. The results demonstrated that the use of peppermint oil was effective in decreasing the intensity of nausea experienced by patients compared to a cool washcloth alone.

The Effects of Peppermint Oil on Post-Operative Urinary Retention

Background: As a primarily postoperative unit, postoperative urinary retention is a common complication. Standard nursing interventions like running water and getting the patient up to the restroom, were not always successful which frequently led to the patient needing to be catheterized. A patient’s mother reported as a Labor and Delivery nurse she had successfully used peppermint oil in postpartum moms. A literature review did not reveal any Evidence Based nursing interventions to treat postoperative urinary retention. Peppermint oil was a nursing intervention in textbooks on postpartum care, with no evidence to support this indication for use. Due to a lack of evidence, a research project was started. Research Question: Does the use of peppermint oil in postoperative pediatric patients result in a reduced need for cauterization when experiencing urinary retention? Methods: The subject must be postoperative, continent, between the ages of 3 and 17, and experiencing urinary retention. A peppermint oil infused patch is placed on the patient for the patient to inhale while attempting to void. After one hour the patch is removed and physician is notified if no void. Results: Over 13 months 23 patients were enrolled. Of those, 15 were able to void within one hour of patch placement. Three patients voided after the patch was removed. A total of five patients required catheterization. A total of 22% of the study patients were catheterized after the use of peppermint oil. The retrospective chart search was performed to determine the control group. The search found 13 patients that met the research criteria. Of those 13, seven required catheterization which equates to a 54%. Conclusion: Even though there was a 32% decrease in the need for catheterization after the implementation of peppermint oil, the data did not prove to be statistically significant (p value of 0.07) due to the small sample size of both the study population and the retrospective chart search. Peppermint oil is now available to any patients meeting criteria for urinary retention. View a PDF of this Poster Presentation

Peppermint Oil to Improve Visualization in Screening Colonoscopy: A Randomized Controlled Clinical Trial

BackgroundScreening colonoscopy has been associated with reduced mortality from colorectal cancer by means of early detection and timely treatment. However, visualization during colonoscopy is often impaired since the colon is naturally prone to peristalsis and spasm. There is evidence to suggest benefit of topical peppermint oil in causing smooth muscle relaxation, thereby decreasing peristalsis. The aim of our study was to determine if peppermint oil helps reduce colonic spasticity so as to allow for better visualization during screening colonoscopy.MethodsWe performed a randomized controlled, double-blinded, clinical trial where patients undergoing screening colonoscopy were assigned to receive either peppermint oil or placebo. Once cecum was reached, 50 mL of either solution was directly injected via the working channel of the colonoscope. Colonic peristalsis, spasticity and bowel visibility were documented. Bowel preparation quality, withdrawal time and adenoma detection rate (ADR) were also assessed. Continuous variables were analyzed using t-test or Wilcoxon rank-sum test while categorical variables were compared using the two-way Chi-square test.ResultsForty-eight patients were included, of whom 24 patients received peppermint oil and 24 received placebo. Mean Boston bowel preparation score (BBPS) was excellent for both groups (8 points vs. 7.9 points; P = 0.98). Both mean total colonoscopy time (17.8 min vs. 21.9 min; P = 0.07) and mean cecal intubation time (7.2 min vs. 10.3 min; P = 0.04) were shorter with peppermint oil as compared to placebo. Complete absence of bowel spasticity was observed among 58.3% patients in the peppermint oil group as compared to 45.8% patients in the placebo group (P = 0.05). More than 75% of bowel was visualized in 83% of patients in both groups (P = 0.56). Mean ADR was higher in the peppermint group as compared to the placebo group (45.8% vs. 37.5%; P = 0.56).ConclusionOur study suggests that topical peppermint oil reduces bowel wall spasticity, which could lead to better visualization of the bowel during screening colonoscopy. Although use of peppermint oil was associated with better ADRs, these results did not achieve statistical significance. Larger sample size and use of alternative methods of peppermint oil administration allowing for more absorption time may establish stronger results.

Chemical Composition and Antibacterial Activity of the Essential Oil of Menthae piperitae L.

The subject of this study was the examination of the chemical composition and antimicrobial activity of peppermint oil (Menthae piperitae L.), that was produced from the plant collected from the plantation in the city of Banja Luka. To examine the chemical composition of the Mentha piperita essential oil we used the GC-FID method. On it’s chromatogram it was clearly shown that the main components of the oil were menthole with the content of 43.66%, menthone 20.02%, iso-menthone 7.73%, following by 1,8-cineole with a percentage of 6.49% and menthil-acetate with 3.31%. The content of the previously mentioned components were all in accordance with the suggestions made by Ph.Eur 8.0. For the purpose of examination antimicrobial activity of the peppermint oil we used agar diffusion method. The results have shown that etheric oil of Menthae piperitae reflects very good antimicrobial activity on all bacterial cultures that we used in this study. The inhibiton zones moved from 12 mm for Pseudomonas aeruginosa to 37.66 mm for Staphylococcus aureus. Such an outcome of our study, and many others from all around the world, indicates the future potential use of peppermint oil in the treatment of bacterial infections, maybe even lowering the use of antibiotics.

Effect of peppermint oil on the shelf-life of dragon fruit during storage

Dragon fruit (Hylocereus undatus) is a short shelf-life, non-climacteric fruit which can be easily destroyed by mold growth during storage time. This study investigated the use of peppermint oil as an alternative method to inhibit surface mould and prolong the shelf-life of dragon fruit during storage. Peppermint oil adsorbed activated carbon at different concentrations (100–1000 μL L−1) was placed with the dragon fruit in the storage box (1 L) at 25 ± 2 °C and 75 ± 5%RH for 21 days. The effect of peppermint oil adsorbed activated carbon on antifungal activity and quality of dragon fruit were evaluated. It was found that peppermint oil adsorbed activated carbon at 700 μL L−1 could provide 100% inhibition of surface mould and decay fungi for more than 14 days of storage (control start decayed at day 7). In addition, essential oil vapour maintained a more firm fruit, greenness of the bract, titratable acid value and total phenolic content after 21 days in comparison to the control. The possible mode of action was demonstrated by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) analysis to involve the release of menthol from peppermint oil activated carbon, which then interacts with other compounds to exhibit antifungal activity.

Use of Peppermint Oil During Screening Colonoscopy to Improve Visibility

Introduction: Colonoscopy is the fundamental screening tool used to detect colorectal polyps and colorectal cancer. Many techniques are being developed to increase visualization and improve adenoma detection rate (ADR). Antispasmodic agents are used in intravenous form to inhibit peristalsis during colonoscopy. Limited data suggest beneficial effects of topical administration of peppermint oil, containing L-menthol, including diminished smooth muscle contraction, decreased endoscopic procedural time and improved ADR. We aimed to assess whether use of peppermint oil during screening colonoscopy improves visualization and increases patient satisfaction, as well as ADR. Methods: This was a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study. Patients scheduled for screening colonoscopy were randomly assigned to either receive peppermint oil or placebo. Insertion of the colonoscope to the cecum was performed as standard practice and, once in the cecum, 50ml of peppermint oil solution or placebo containing normal saline was gently sprayed into the lumen. During withdrawal, the endoscopist graded colonic peristalsis, spasticity, and visibility while assessing for colon lesions. Quality measures including bowel preparation, withdrawal time and number of polyps removed were recorded. Additional data on demographics and procedural details were documented and analyzed. Statistical analysis was performed using Wilcoxon rank sum and Chi-square tests. Results: Preliminary data from 28 patients were analyzed. Thirteen patients were randomized to receive peppermint oil. Age, gender, and BMI were comparable between the two groups. Average Boston Bowel Preparation Score was overall excellent (mean 7.9 ±1.2 for drug vs 8.3 ±1.0 for placebo). Withdrawal time tended to be less in the group that received the drug (9.8 min vs. 10.9 min) with shorter overall procedure time (18.3 min vs 21.7 min, p= 0.56). With use of peppermint oil, ADR was 32.1% compared with 37.5% in controls (p=0.37). Assessment of spasticity, peristalsis and visualization did not differ in the two groups. Patient satisfaction evaluated by perception of pain and willingness to repeat the procedure was equally high in both groups. Conclusion: Our initial data on the use of peppermint oil in screening colonoscopy suggests no significant impact on peristalsis, patient satisfaction, or ADR. Decrease in procedure time may be a surrogate marker for improved visibility with additional patients currently being recruited to further explore our hypothesis.

The Antifungal Properties of Peppermint and Thyme Essential Oils Misted in Broiler Houses

ABSTRACT This study aimed at evaluating if essential oils misted in broiler houses reduce environmental fungi counts. The investigation was conducted in three experimental rooms, where broiler chickens were reared between 1 to 42 d of age. Every three days, the rooms were fogged with pure water (control) or with aqueous solutions of peppermint or thyme oils. On the next day, fogging samples from the air, flat surfaces, and litter were collected and quantitatively and qualitatively analysed for fungal contamination. The treatment with essential oils showed promising results. In the room fogged with thyme oil, aerial fungi growth was not as evident as in the control room, and presented the lowest average fungi count. Thyme oil was also the most effective in reducing fungi colonization on drinker surfaces and litter. The use of peppermint oil also reduced the population of air, wall, surface and litter fungi, although some exceptions were noted. Aspergillus, Penicillium, Fusarium and Saccharomyces genera were identified most frequently. The effect of essential oils was noticeable in the last two weeks, when the counts of Aspergillus sp. were 75% (thyme oil) and 46% (peppermint oil) lower in comparison with the control group. The results show that fogging broiler houses with essential oils may be an effective prevention method against fungal aerosol in broiler houses. However, further investigations to determine the synergistic effect of different oils and their compounds, and the best possible doses and methods of application in the field are needed.

Effectiveness of topical peppermint oil on symptomatic treatment of chronic pruritus.

BackgroundPruritus is one of the commonest skin complaints. Peppermint oil can be effective in reducing the severity of such a condition.AimThe aim of this study was to assess the efficacy of topically applied peppermint oil in the treatment of chronic pruritus.Subjects and methodsFifty selected subjects diagnosed with chronic pruritus due to hepatic, renal, or diabetic cause were studied and divided into two groups of 25 patients each. Group I patients were instructed to hydrate the skin and then apply topical peppermint oil, while Group II patients applied petrolatum topically by hand; this application was done on the areas of pruritus, twice daily for 2 weeks. The severity of the itch was assessed and compared before and after the study by the 5-D itch scale (5D-IS). The results were analyzed by SPSS software. Statistical methods such as descriptive analysis, independent samples t-test, paired samples t-test, and chi-square test were employed.ResultsThere was a significant improvement regarding all studied individual parameters (5-D IS) for the peppermint oil users with no significance among petrolatum users. A comparison of total score of 5-D IS between patients of Group I and patients of Group II favored the improvement following the use of peppermint oil than using placebo (P-value <0.05).ConclusionThe topical treatment of chronic pruritus with peppermint oil is effective, easy to use, safe, cheap, and more acceptable for those whose topical and systemic treatments tend to be irritating, contraindicated, or less well tolerated.

Antibacterial properties and major bioactive components of Mentha piperita essential oils against bacterial fruit blotch of watermelon

Plant-derived essential oil is an alternative to antibiotics, eliminating the concern of developing antibiotic-resistant bacterial strains. In this study, using the half-divided Petri plate assays, 32 volatile essential oils were screened for their antibacterial activity against Acidovorax citrulli (Acc). Sweet basil and peppermint oils were the most effective against Acc, with subsequent trials showing that peppermint oil to be the most active. Using gas chromatography–mass spectrometry, the major compositions of peppermint oil were analysed. Among the various compositions of peppermint oil, menthol, neomenthol, isopulegone and 1,8-cineole were significantly active against Acc and each component at 0.2% concentration inhibited all bacterial growth. This study demonstrated in vitro and in vivo antibacterial activities of peppermint oil and its active components against Acc. These results suggest the use of peppermint oil as a potential antibacterial agent to treat seed with Acc.

Inhaled peppermint oil for postop nausea in patients undergoing cardiac surgery.

Postoperative nausea is a common occurrence that is very uncomfortable for patients and may result in complications including pain, strain at the surgical site, aspiration, and possible dehiscence. Antiemetics used to manage the nausea cause many adverse reactions, such as dysrhythmias and/or drowsiness resulting in an unwillingness to ambulate or perform deep-breathing exercises. Previous studies have reported a decrease in nausea following the use of peppermint oil. Researchers obtained informed consent from 123 patients for this study; 34 (28%) of them experienced nausea and were offered a nasal inhaler that contained peppermint oil. The average nausea rating before the use of peppermint oil was 3.29 (SD, 1.0) on a scale of 0 to 5, with 5 being the greatest nausea. Two minutes later, the average nausea rating was 1.44 (SD, 1.3). Using paired t-tests, these differences were found to be statistically significant (P = 0.000). The researchers concluded that peppermint oil inhalation is a viable first-line treatment for nausea in postoperative cardiac surgery patients.

The Effect of Peppermint oil on Strength Performance in Resistance Trained Men

Peppermint oil has traditionally been used for its analgesic, anti-inflammatory, antispasmodic, antioxidant, and vasoconstrictor effects. Evidence relating to the use of peppermint oil as an ergogenic aid is limited with some studies demonstrating that supplementation has significant effects on exercise performance and only one study to date examining the effect of peppermint oil on strength. PURPOSE: The aim of this study was to investigate the use of peppermint oil as an ergogenic aid for strength performance. METHOD: Resistance trained men (n =10) were randomized in a crossover design with either peppermint oil or placebo. Following a familiarization week and appropriate warm-up subjects were asked to performed a three repetition maximum (3RM) test on both the bench press and back squat. 15 mins before each testing session subjects were asked to consume the test supplement (50μl pure peppermint oil in 500 mL water) or the placebo (50μl peppermint flavoring in 500 mL water). RESULTS: The results from this study indicated that peppermint oil significantly increased strength performance when compared to placebo (p<0.05). Lower body strength measured using the 3RM back squat significantly increased from 122 ± 22 to 129 ± 26 Kg in response to peppermint oil (t(9)=-3.354, p=0.008). Upper body strength measured using the 3RM bench press significantly increased from 99 ± 21 to 112 ± 27 Kg in response to peppermint oil (t(9)=-3.754, p=0.005). CONCLUSION: In conclusion the results from this suggests indicate a small but significant ergogenic effect of peppermint oil in resistance trained men.