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Posted: Thursday, 21 February 2008 8:05PM
Dr. Brian McDonough on Peppermint Oil
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NEW YORK (1010 WINS) -- Complimentary and alternative medicine have become a major part of the way many people approach health and wellness, and although many physicians are still reluctant to embrace it, a growing number are learning more and more about these other treatments and journals are starting to provide helpful information.
A case in point is peppermint oil.
The peppermint leaf and peppermint oil have been used for centuries for digestive disorders.
In particular, it can be used for Irritable Bowel Syndrome. On a chemical level, it works by relaxing smooth muscle and can help with spasm. But there is a down side.
Like many essential oils, peppermint oil can cause damage at high doses including development of gallstones, and in severe cases, kidney failure.
These are rare but it brings up the most important point about these complimentary treatments. Just because something is over the counter, does not mean there are no side effects.
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