Uses of Menthol Oil

Menthol oil is derived from plants in the mint family like peppermint and spearmint. It is used for its fragrant scent, rich flavor and medicinal benefits. While there are numerous health conditions that people treat with menthol oil, only a few have good scientific evidence demonstrating the oil's medicinal effectiveness.

Indigestion

Menthol oil can be used to treat symptoms of indigestion and heartburn. However, according to the U.S. National Library of Medicine, this benefit is achieved when combining the peppermint oil with caraway oil. The organization also contends that in some cases, peppermint oil may actually cause heartburn, particularly if you have GERD, or gastroesophageal reflux disease. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, peppermint works because it improves the flow of bile, which in turn, helps the body digest food more effectively. Plus, it relieves gas because it acts as a muscle relaxer.

Irritable Bowel Syndrome

Mint oil has also shown promise in relieving the symptoms of IBS, or irritable bowel syndrome. According to both the U.S. National Library of Medicine and the University of Maryland Medical Center, taking peppermint oil capsules can reduce the pain, bloating, gas and diarrhea caused by IBS.

Headache

Mint oil can be used to relieve headache pain. When you apply mint oil topically to your forehead or temples, it can help relieve a tension headache. This is because the oil has a cooling and numbing effect when applied topically.

Cold and Flu

Mint oil can act as a decongestant if you have a cold or the flu. This is because it thins mucus and acts as an expectorant to break up and loosen congestion making a cough more productive. It is also soothing when you have a sore throat or dry cough.

Flavor and Fragrance

Mint is often used to flavor gum, candy, desserts, teas and other foods. It is also used to flavor things like toothpaste, mouth wash, medicine and cough drops. The fragrance is also used in cosmetics like shampoo, lotion and perfume, as well as potpourri and candles.