Peppermint 4:1

Botanical: Mentha piperita
Family: Labiatae/Lamiaceae (mint)

Other common names: Mint, Balm Mint, Curled Mint, Lamb Mint, Brandy Mint
           

Peppermint is more than just a candy flavor. This herb promotes healthy digestion by soothing and comforting the stomach. Peppermint is frequently used in herbal teas and Capsules. The essential oil of this plant contains menthol, which also displays healthful powers, and is often found in throat-soothers and topical vapor rubs.

Disclaimer:
The information presented herein by Viable Herbal Solutions is intended for educational purposes only. These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA and are not intended to diagnose, cure, treat or prevent disease. Individual results may vary, and before using any supplements, it is always advisable to consult with your own health care provider.

History and Uses:
Peppermint is found throughout Europe, in moist areas, along stream banks and in waste lands.  Mint is one of the most ancient of all medicinal herbs.  Ancient Athenians would rub the leaves of mint on their arms to improve their endurance, and both Greeks and Romans crowned themselves with Peppermint at their feasts and adorned their tables with its sprays.  They also flavored their sauces and their wines with its essence.  Two species of mint were used medicinally by the ancient Greek physicians, but some writers doubt whether either was the modern Peppermint, although there is evidence that Mentha piperita was cultivated by the Egyptians.  It is mentioned in the Icelandic Pharmacopoeias of the thirteenth century but only came into general use in Western European medicine in about the middle of the eighteenth century.  Today, the United States is the most important producer of Peppermint and Peppermint oil.  The primary chemical constituents of Peppermint include essential oils (menthol, menthone, methyl acetate, limonene, pulegone), tannins, flavonoids, choline and potassium.  Peppermint leaves contain about 0.5-4% volatile oil that is composed of 50-78% free menthol and 5-20% menthol combined with other constituents.  Peppermint is an excellent carminative, having a relaxing effect on the muscles of the digestive system, combating flatulence and stimulating bile and digestive juice flow.  It is used to relieve intestinal colic, flatulent dyspepsia and associated conditions.  The volatile oil in Peppermint acts as a mild anesthetic to the stomach wall, which allays feelings of nausea and the desire to vomit.  This herb has long been known to relieve nausea and vomiting associated with pregnancy, as well as travel sickness. Peppermint is also used in the treatment of ulcerative conditions of the bowel.  It is a traditional treatment for fevers, colds and influenza.  As an inhalant, this herb is used as temporary relief for nasal catarrh.  Where headaches are associated with indigestion, Peppermint may help.  As a nervine, it eases anxiety and tension.  In cases of painful menstrual periods, the herb relieves the pain and eases associated tension.  Externally, it is used to relieve itching, inflammation and a variety of respiratory conditions.  Peppermint oil is also a great expectorant.

Recommended Dosage:
Take two (2) capsules, two (2) to three (3) times each day with water at mealtimes. 

Contraindications:
Pregnant and nursing women should not take Peppermint without consulting a physician. Peppermint may aggravate hiatal hernia. Those who suffer from gallbladder disorders, gallstones or blockage of the bile duct, or those who take heartburn medication (cisapride, etc.) should not take Peppermint without consulting a physician.  Do not exceed dosage (many time the recommended amount), and it is also recommended to take a few days' break after two weeks' continual use. Peppermint may interfere with absorption of iron.

Capsule Information:
Our Peppermint supplements are encapsulated in 100% Gluten-free, Vegetable Cellulose, Certified Kosher, size "00" Capsules. (click here for size comparison) Each capsule contains approximately 600 mgs.