Botanical Overview
Mentha × piperita, commonly known as Peppermint or Mint, belongs to the family Lamiaceae. This hybrid species is native to Europe and Asia but widely cultivated in North America. The primary parts used medicinally are the leaves and aerial parts. Peppermint is famous for its aromatic essential oils, predominantly menthol and menthone.
Energetics
Peppermint has a cooling temperature and drying moisture quality. Its tastes are bitter and pungent, with an ascending and outward directionality. It acts as a relaxing tonic primarily affecting qi.
Primary Actions
- Antispasmodic
- Carminative
- Digestive stimulant
- Mild analgesic
- Anti-inflammatory
- Antimicrobial
Indications
Western
- Indigestion
- Nausea
- Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)
- Headache
- Muscle pain
- Respiratory congestion
Syndromes
- Functional gastrointestinal disorders
- Tension headaches
- Mild respiratory infections
TCM
- Headache
- Stomachache
- Cough
- Nausea
Syndromes
- Wind-cold invasion
- Liver Qi stagnation
Ayurveda
- Digestive disorders
- Headache
- Nausea
Syndromes
- Vata imbalance
- Pitta disorders
Unani
- Digestive complaints
- Headache
- Flatulence
Syndromes
- Sulemani (cooling temperament) ailments
Constituents & Mechanisms
Key phytochemicals include menthol, menthone, flavonoids, tannins, and essential oils which contribute to its antispasmodic, carminative, antimicrobial, and mild analgesic effects.
Dosage & Preparations
- Infusion: 1-2 teaspoons (2-4 g) dried leaf per cup, 1-3 times daily
- Tincture: 1:5 in 40% alcohol, 2-5 mL, 1-3 times daily
- Essential oil: topical use diluted; internal use not generally recommended without professional supervision
Safety & Contraindications
Peppermint is generally safe when used appropriately but should be avoided in infants and young children due to risk of respiratory distress. Those with gastroesophageal reflux disease should use caution as peppermint may relax the lower esophageal sphincter. It is also not recommended during pregnancy and lactation without medical supervision. Hypersensitivity to Mentha species is a contraindication.
Astrological Correspondences
Planetary ruler: Mercury
Elemental rulers: Air and Water
Selected References
- Mentha × piperita, Plants For A Future
- European Medicines Agency Herbal Monograph on Mentha × piperita L., folium
- NIH NCCIH Peppermint Monograph
- Bensky D., Clavey S. & Stoger E. Chinese Herbal Medicine: Materia Medica (2004)
- Miller J., Planetary Herbology (1998)