The danger of Mint - Peppermint

Danger of Peppermint
(Mentha piperita)

The danger of Mint

Mint comes from the Greek legend of the nymph Minthe. Throughout
history different species of mint have been used across the globe for
their varying properties, both medicinal and culinary. Peppermint and
spearmint are popular species in kitchen.

Spearmint and peppermint leaves are deep green, long, pointed and
crinkled. Spearmint is sweet with a cool sensation to the mouth while
peppermint has a stronger menthol taste. In Middle East, spearmint is
used fresh and dried with grilled meats, stuffed vegetables and rice. In
desserts, peppermint is commonly added flavor to fruits, ices and
sherberts. Peppermint is also a popular ingredient in toothpaste,
chewing gum and liqueurs.

Peppermint (Mentha piperita) is usually taken after a meal for its ability
to reduce indigestion and colonic spasms by reducing the gastrocolic
reflex. It is a naturally occurring hybrid cross between water mint (M.
aquatica) and spearmint (M. spicata) and is best known for its role as a
popular flavoring agent. [1]

Dyspepsia is common in France. A few randomised controlled clinical
trials suggest that peppermint essential oil is effective in reducing
abdominal pain, flatulence and diarrhea in patients with "irritable bowel
syndrome". Peppermint tea, containing essential oil, has no known
adverse effects. [2]

In Germany, researchers from University of Heidelberg found extracts
from lemon balm, peppermint, and sage exhibited a high and
concentration-dependent activity against the infection of HIV-1 in T-cell
lines, primary macrophages, and in ex vivo tonsil histocultures with 50%
inhibitory concentrations as low as 0.004%. [3]

Possible Side Effects

Complaints are reported about the adverse effects of peppermint and
spearmint on male reproductive function. In a study of 48 male rats,
drinking peppermint and spearmint teas was found to affect the
follicle-stimulating hormone, luteinizing hormone levels and total
testosterone levels. [4] There is also a report that excessive peppermint
consumption caused stomatitis in England. [5]

Peppermint Oil

Reference:

[1] Spirling LI, Daniels IR. Botanical perspectives on health peppermint: more than
just an after-dinner mint. J R Soc Health. 2001 Mar;121(1):62-3. [2] Herbal remedies
for dyspepsia: peppermint seems effective Prescrire Int. 2008 Jun;17(95):121-3. [3]
Geuenich S, Goffinet C, Venzke S, Nolkemper S, Baumann I, Plinkert P, Reichling
J, Keppler OT. Aqueous extracts from peppermint, sage and lemon balm leaves
display potent anti-HIV-1 activity by increasing the virion density. Retrovirology. 2008
Mar 20;5:27. [4] Akdogan M, Ozguner M, Kocak A, Oncu M, Cicek E. Effects of
peppermint teas on plasma testosterone, follicle-stimulating hormone, and
luteinizing hormone levels and testicular tissue in rats. Urology. 2004
Aug;64(2):394-8. [5] Rogers SN, Pahor AL. A form of stomatitis induced by
excessive peppermint consumption. Dent Update. 1995 Jan-Feb;22(1):36-7.

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