Take Peppermint Extract if You Feel Heartburn Coming On

Do you have a case of indigestion or heartburn coming on? A little peppermint extract should clear it right up. The peppermint plant belongs to the mint family and is a hybrid of watermint and spearmint. This herb originated in England and was first grown there in th 1700's. These days, you can find the aromatic plant growing practically everywhere. It comes in two varieties, black mint and white mint. The black mint variety is useful in aromatherapy because its high in peppermint essential oil.

Peppermint tea is well-known around the world for its ability to sooth an upset stomach and relieve indigestion. So, if you're among the millions of peoplewho suffer from heartburn and indigestion on a daily basis, this is the herb for you.

The Health Benefits of Peppermint Extract

The peppermint plant became popular in Europe when people discovered that it was a potent remedy for respiratory infections, nausea, and morning sickness. In addition to soothing stomach ailments and aiding digestion, peppermint is an effective remedy for coughs, colds, and fever. It can also help relieve food poisoning, and freshen bad breath.

Let's take a look at some specific conditions this herb is useful for.

Colic, nausea, and indigestion - If you're suffering from nausea, indigestion, or vomiting, try drinking a cup of peppermint tea. Believe it or not, as little as one cup of the tea can relieve all kinds of stomach upset. This herb's antispasmodic properties can relieve gas pain and heartburn.

Crohn's disease and hepatitis - Peppermint oil alleviates digestive disorders related to hepatitis and promotes bile production. This action helps relieve the symptoms of Crohn's disease. Research also shows peppermint essential oil is beneficial for a spastic colon.

Food poisoning - Japanese researchers have found that peppermint is effective at stopping the growth of various microorganisms known to cause food poisoning like Salmonella and Listeria.

Gallstones - This herb alleviates spasms of the bile duct, promotes bile production, and is helpful in dissolving gallstones.

Headaches and tension - German research has found that peppermint oil applied to your forehead is beneficial in relieving headaches. Apply it to your temples and it's a great stress reliever.

Irritable bowel syndrome - IBS is caused by your intestines passing food to the colon before it's completely digested. The antispasmodic effects of this herb help to relax the smooth muscles lining your intestines. This helps ease the symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome.

Peppermint Extract Side Effects

Peppermint extract is available in various forms. You can take it in capsule form, as a lozenge, or drink it as a tea. You can also apply peppermint oil directly on the skin. If scents are more your speed, the essential oil is quite aromatic and is often used in aromatherapy.

Never eat pure menthol or peppermint leaves. The leaves are toxic and can cause irregular heartbeat. Ingesting pure menthol can be life-threatening. If you use apeppermint oil product, be sure to follow the directions on the label. Large amounts can cause burning, gastrointestinal upset, and even siezures.

If you have acid reflux disease or chronic heartburn, don't take this herb. It's also been known to interfere with prescription acid reflux medication.