Peppermint Oil (Enteric-Coated)
Also known as: Mentha piperita oil, enteric peppermint oil, IBgard (branded), peppermint essential oil
Peppermint oil is the steam-distilled essential oil of Mentha piperita, rich in menthol and menthone. When delivered in an enteric-coated capsule so that it releases in the small intestine, it is one of the best-studied botanical options for abdominal comfort and has been examined in multiple meta-analyses of randomized trials in irritable bowel syndrome. Without enteric coating the oil releases in the stomach and commonly causes heartburn, so the delivery form is part of the ingredient specification.
Research summary
Menthol blocks calcium channels in intestinal smooth muscle, studied for antispasmodic effects.
Dosage
Daily amounts, of compound.
| Lowest studied | Typical range | Highest studied | Upper limit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 180 mg | 180–450 mg | — | — |
180 to 225 mg of oil per enteric-coated capsule, taken two to three times daily before meals (180 to 675 mg per day; 180 to 450 mg is the typical retail total). Enteric or delayed-release coating is required; uncoated oil frequently causes reflux.
Standardization: Mentha piperita oil, typically 30–55% menthol
Source material: steam-distilled leaf oil
Format suitability
- Capsule
- Powder
- Tablet
- Softgel
- Gummy
- Liquid
Oil; requires enteric-coated softgel or delayed-release capsule. Liquid form is for flavoring, not dosing.
Formulation notes
May relax the lower esophageal sphincter if released in the stomach. Strong aroma can permeate other products in shared packaging.
Sources
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