Peppermint oil
Peppermint oil is the essential oil distilled from the leaves of peppermint, Mentha × piperita. Its main component is menthol.
What it is studied for
The strongest rated effects first. Bars show the size of the effect, the letter grades the evidence, and each rating lists the studies behind it.
Why might peppermint oil ease cramps?
Peppermint oil is distilled from the flowering plant’s above-ground parts. EMA describes a proposed action on calcium-dependent contraction of gut smooth muscle, helping it relax. The mechanism is not fully established. 1
Key studies
The most recent publications linked to Peppermint oil's ratings.
Why people take it
SuppCo community snapshot, 2026-09-28. Reasons for use are not evidence that it works.
Questions people ask
Does peppermint tea have the same IBS evidence?
No. Research on peppermint leaf is limited; capsule findings do not establish the same benefit from tea. 2
Can peppermint oil worsen reflux?
Yes. Heartburn is a recognized adverse effect of oral use. 2
Is the IBS evidence conclusive?
No. The 2022 review favored peppermint oil but rated the evidence very low quality. 3
Menthol
Spearmint