Herbs & Supplements

Mentha piperita Scientific Name: Peppermint What side effects should I watch for? Major Side Effects One case has been reported of sudden, severe lung injury following the injection of peppermint oil into an intravenous (IV) line. It is believed that the oil made lung tissues leak, which caused swelling and interfered with breathing. The patient recovered, but intensive care which included the use of a ventilator was necessary for several days after the exposure. Recommendations are to avoid topical application of peppermint oil derivatives on infants because using peppermint oil on the faces or noses of infants has caused breathing failure as a result of muscle spasms in the throat and lungs. Less Severe Sise Effects Orally, peppermint oil has been known to cause heartburn. It may also produce a burning sensation in the mouth or around the anal opening. Topical application of peppermint oil may irritate skin, especially areas that are damaged or injured already. << Back What interactions should I watch for? >>

Note: The above information is not intended to replace the advice of your physician, pharmacist, or other healthcare professional. It is not meant to indicate that the use of the product is safe, appropriate, or effective for you.

In general, herbal products are not subject to review or approval by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). They are not required to be standardized, meaning that the amounts of active ingredients or contaminants they contain may vary between brands or between different batches of the same brand. Not all of the risks, side effects, or interactions associated with the use of herbal products are known because few reliable studies of their use in humans have been done.

This information is provided for your education only. Please share this information with your healthcare provider and be sure that you talk to your doctor and pharmacist about all the prescription and non-prescription medicines you take before you begin to use any herbal product.