Menthol, the principal active ingredient of peppermint, stimulates the stomach lining, thereby reducing the amount of time food spends in the stomach. It also slightly anesthetizes and relaxes the muscles of the digestive system, thus reducing spasms which lead to abdominal pain. Peppermint is available as commercial tea, tinctures, and fresh or dried leaves and flowers. High doses of the essential oil of Peppermint serves as an analgesic and a calming agent. It is also cooling, and is thereby good for skin problems, fevers, headaches and migraines, which are linked to overheating.
Peppermint oil is also an effective antibacterial and antiseptic agent for combating infections.
Used as an inhalant, it can be used for clearing nasal passages and fighting congestion. Applied topically, peppermint can aid in the relief of itching, rashes, and inflammations. Only diluted preparations should be used. Peppermint may also interfere with iron absorption. Painkillers are substances that give temporary relief from pain without causing a loss of consciousness.