So I've heard the peppermint can help with stomach problems and IBS, so I decided to buy candy canes with peppermint oil in them to see if it could potentially help me. What has your experiences with peppermint been like and is it beneficial for stomach problems like indigestion and gas?
I have talked to my mom about this who is a doctor and she doesn't think it's something to get worked up about, but if it persists, I'm going to be smart and get checked out by a doctor to see if something is wrong.
You should definitely see your doctor before you try taking anything for the problem. IBS is an issue that can be caused by underlying problems, stress, allergies, etc. Talking to your doctor can give you an answer as to why you have the stomach issues. While there you can ask if they think peppermint tea would help or make it worse, often IBS is triggered by certain types of food and peppermint may make it worse rather than better.
The doctor can prescribe you with something that helps with the problem, and once diagnosed you can actually buy herbal remedies over the counter for the issue, but it is not advised to take any herb unless you know it will not make the problem worse, give you side effects, interfere with medication or give you an allergic reaction.
At best, ingesting raw mint (The herb) can help stomach problems. I say this from experience, but check with youself and your doctor if you may be allergic to mint. Mint helps stomach problems and digestive problems. Usually, I pluck a leaf from the plant and just simply eat it. Be sure to rinse or wash it clean first.
What works for me may not work for you, so it's best to go to a doctor, but I'll put peppermint oil (just a few drops) in my humidifyer. I also suck on those candies.
I would suggest eating the raw mint leaves, or perhaps making mint tea with mint leaves, it would probably be better for you than pepermint candy if your seeking its healing properties.
Although Peppermint is now a recognized plant, it is really a Hybrid of Water Mint and Spearmint; resulting in a very powerful "Mintiness". Even as a liquid (sold as a Cordial) it will certainly ease an upset stomach; perhaps from over-
eating and drinking! (IBS is a lot more serious!). Professional singers would often sip a mixture of Peppermint and Lime Cordial. (No added water!). It "eases" and "opens" the throat!
A great herb is Peppermint!
Thanks Brysing, that is pretty interesting. I am reading about people using capsules of peppermint oil to treat IBS, but there are precautions about it interacting with other medications and heartburn as a side effect.
