Pam Oh Herbs

Peppermint

Mentha × piperita, family Lamiaceae. Part discussed: Leaf.

Fresh peppermint sprigs with crinkled deep green leaves and purple stems, beside a small pile of dried mint leaf on dark stone.
The part discussed in this entry. Botanical. A House study of the material. Not a photograph of a specific specimen or Collection.

Identity

Common name
Peppermint
Botanical name
Mentha × piperita
Family
Lamiaceae
Part or material
Leaf
Classification
Botanical
Educational category
Foundational Botanicals

About

Mentha × piperita L., Lamiaceae, leaf. NCCIH separately discusses peppermint oil versus peppermint leaf, noting leaf research is limited.

Forms and distinctions

Different preparations of the same material are described separately, because what is recorded for one form does not carry to another.

Oil and leaf are distinct forms; peppermint tea is discussed as a food-level use.

Safety considerations

Reported side effects of orally taken peppermint oil include heartburn, nausea, abdominal pain and dry mouth; skin irritation is possible with topical application; menthol-containing products should not be applied to the face of infants or young children; safety data in medicinal amounts during pregnancy and breastfeeding are limited.

References

The authorities this entry draws on, named so you can weigh them yourself.
  • NCCIH · US National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health
  • EMA HMPC Menthae piperitae folium · European Medicines Agency, herbal medicine monograph

This entry is educational. It is not medical advice, not a diagnosis, and not a statement about any Pam Oh Herbs Collection or its contents. It carries no dosage and no claim of effect.