Peppermint oil

Peppermint oil belongs to the group of phytopharmaceuticals in the naturopathic group and is mainly used for neurological disorders, such as tension headaches. It is obtained from freshly harvested flowering twig tips.
see under: Menthae piperitae aetheroleum

Sensitization and stimulation of cold and pressure receptors, inducing a feeling of cold, alteration of the cell membrane with a reduced Ca++ discharge and relaxation of the voltage-dependent Ca++ channel, depolarization of cold receptors(see also menthol) with increased electrical activity, blocking of C-fibers that conduct pain stimuli from nociceptors via the substantia gellantinosa to the brain, inhibition of serotonin-, substance P-induced muscle contractions

Ingredients: Fresh plant extracts with ethanol of ash bark (in a ratio of 4.5:1), trembling poplar bark/leaves (in a ratio of 4.5:1), goldenrod herb (4.8:1). The main constituent of pure peppermint oil is free menthol along with smaller amounts of isomers. For the odor quality of peppermint oil are the esters of menthol, menthyl acetate and menthyl isovalerinate.

Externally mild and moderate tension headache, also suitable for pruritus

Semi-solid or oily preparations containing 5 to 20% peppermint essential oil, or a 10% ethanolic solution Apply regularly every five minutes to forehead and temples. If no effect occurs within two hours, discontinue use.

Patients with hypersensitive skin may experience redness or burning of the skin. In this case, wash off the oil used with cold water. In rare cases an allergic reaction may occur.

Hypersensitivity or allergy; do not use on infants and young children, asthmatic conditions

The combination senna leaves, peppermint oil and caraway oil consists of:

• Sennae folium (senna leaves)
• Menthae piperitae oleum (peppermint oil)
• Carvi fructus (see caraway oil below)

has a lanxiering and antispasmodic effect and is used for constipation.

Euminz®

1. Loew D (2012) in Beer A M et al [Ed.] Leitfaden Naturheilverfahren für die ärztliche Praxis, Urban und Fischer Verlag S 187f.