Intestinal Relief With Peppermint Gels

Saturday, December 11th 2004

• Tweet

Several clinical trials have shown that enteric coated Peppermint oil capsules may help reduce abdominal pain, flatulence, bloating and frequency of bowel movements. It works because Peppermint contains menthol, a smooth muscle relaxant that subdues lower bowel spasms associated with gas. Menthol also helps break-up intestinal foam, thus allowing gas to pass through the digestive tract.

Targeted release

Peppermint oil softgels have to be enteric coated to ensure menthol is released and absorbed within the lower intestine - where it's relaxing effect is needed most. An enteric coating prevents the capsule dissolving until after it has passed through the acidic stomach and reaches the small intestine. Without enteric coating, heartburn could occur. (1)(2)

How does peppermint oil work?

It works by improving the rhythmic contractions of the intestine, relieving intestinal spasm. Radiance Peppermint Gels also contain Fennel oil and Ginger oil to help relieve gas, nausea and intestinal discomfort. Additional benefits include reduction of symptoms associated with fibromyalgia, irritable bowel and candida.

What about peppermint oil for Irritable Bowel Syndrome?

In one study 79% of those using Peppermint oil capsules experienced an alleviation in severity of abdominal pain; 83% had less abdominal distension, 83% had reduced stool frequency, 73% had less abdominal gurgling and 79% had less flatulence.(3)

References:
(1) Somerville K, Richmond C and Bell G: "Delayed release peppermint oil capsules for the spastic colon syndrome: a pharmacokinetic study. Br. J Clin Pharmacol 18:638-40, 1984
(2) Rees W, Evans B and Rhodes J: "Treating irritable bowel syndrome with peppermint oil." Br Med J ii: 835-6, 1979
(3) Liu JH, Chen GH, Yeh HZ, Huang CK, Poon SK. "Enteric-coated peppermint-oil capsules in the treatment of irritable bowel syndrome: a prospective, randomized trial". J Gastroenterol ;32(6):765-8. Dec 1997

Reproduced unabridged from the October - December 2004 issue of Health and Herbal News, with the kind permission of Health and Herbs International Ltd.

The following products are all useful for Intestinal problems:

Activated Charcoal
Colostrum Capsules
Formula 825
Gastrocalm
Peppermint Gel
Peppermint Tea
Primadophilus
Tummy Tea

Related health information can be found here:

Bad Breath
Colitis
Digestion
Gas
Gastritis

Related articles can be found here:

Improved Colostrum Provides Extra Health Benefits

Repair Gastrointestinal Damage with Clolstrum

Soothe your stomach with Slippery Elm

The Power of "True Oregano Oil"

Why Take Primadophilus?

Winning the Battle with Candida & Chronic Fatigue Syndrome

If you need help or advice, you are welcome to email our naturopathic team with your health question.

Disclaimer: The health information presented here has been written for the New Zealand health consumer. It is of a general nature and is only intended to provide a summary of the subjects covered. The information is not intended to be comprehensive or to provide medical advice to you. While all care has been taken to ensure the accuracy of the information, no responsibility or liability is accepted, and no person should act in reliance on any statement contained in the information provided. All health ailments should be treated by a qualified health professional.

ref:nh220

• Tweet