Peppermint Oil (enteric-coated capsules)

Overview

Peppermint essential oil, when formulated in enteric-coated capsules, acts as a natural antispasmodic targeting the lower digestive tract.
👉 It helps relax intestinal muscles, reducing cramps, gas, and abdominal pain, especially in IBS (Irritable Bowel Syndrome).

🟢 What it does (main evidence)

• IBS: Moderate to marked reduction in abdominal pain and total symptom score (supported by several meta-analyses).
• Bloating / post-meal discomfort: Moderate improvement.
• Digestive spasms: well-documented intestinal relaxation effect due to menthol.

🟡 What’s uncertain

• Effectiveness depends on enteric-coated form (otherwise gastric irritation possible).
• Does not treat underlying causes of IBS; acts only on symptoms.
• Limited data on long-term use (>3 months).

🔴 What it doesn’t do

• Does not cure IBS or ulcers.
• Has no proven effect on gut microbiota or nutrient digestion.

Dosage & usage (non-prescriptive)

• 180–225 mg peppermint oil (standardized to menthol), 2–3×/day before meals.
• Only use enteric-coated capsules to prevent gastric burning.
• Avoid in children, pregnant, or breastfeeding women without medical advice.

Safety

• Well tolerated in gastro-resistant forms.
• May cause reflux, menthol burps, or gastric irritation if the capsule dissolves too early.
• Avoid combining with antacids, PPIs, or in severe GERD cases.

Risks & interactions

• May worsen reflux/GERD; avoid in young children.
• Use caution with antacids (may dissolve the capsule prematurely).

Product quality tips

• Use certified enteric-coated capsules showing menthol content (≥30–55%).
• Avoid pure essential oils taken orally without encapsulation.
• Choose products tested for purity (COA) and compliant with dosage standards.

Sources

• Examine.com — Peppermint Oil overview
• NIH/ODS — Digestive support
• Health Canada — Natural Health Products Digestive Category