Peppermint (Mentha piperita), a popular flavoring for gum, toothpaste, and tea, is also used to soothe an upset stomach or to aid digestion. It has a calming and numbing effect, and is often used to treat headaches, skin irritation, nausea, diarrhea, menstrual cramps, flatulence, and anxiety associated with depression. It is also an ingredient in chest rubs used to treat symptoms of the common cold. In test tubes, peppermint kills some types of bacteria, fungi, and viruses, suggesting it may have antibacterial, antifungal, and antiviral properties.

1. Aids Digestion
Peppermint has been found to ease symptoms associated with indigestion in many cases. This herb has a calming effect on the stomach muscles. It also creates better bile flow, which is critical for fat digestion. When you eat peppermint or drink it in tea form, food moves more quickly through your stomach. Peppermint has also been found to relieve the painful gas that is often associated with digestive issues.

2. Relief for Irritable Bowel Syndrome
If you are suffering from irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), you may find relief from taking enteric-coated peppermint oil capsules. The coating on these capsules prevents the heartburn and indigestion that may result from peppermint oil being released in the stomach. Numerous studies show that these capsules relieve symptoms associated with IBS such as gas, diarrhea, bloating and pain. Peppermint relaxes the smooth muscles around the intestines, decreasing the chances of muscle spasms and indigestion.

3. Cold and Flu Remedy
Peppermint is commonly used in cold and flu remedies. Studies have shown that it kills bacteria and viruses. It also has a calming and numbing effect. It dulls the pain of an aching body. The menthol in peppermint effectively thins mucus and breaks up phlegm. It provides relief from coughs and congestion. You will find menthol as a common ingredient in decongestants. It is also a common ingredient in rubs used on the chest to relieve chest aches experienced during colds and the flu.

4. Protection Against Cancer
The link between peppermint and anti-cancer effects is still under research. A phytonutrient in peppermint has shown to stop cancerous tumors from growing in animals. These are tumors in the pancreas and liver, which are generally more difficult to cure. Protection against cancer using peppermint in animals has also been observed in the lungs, colon and skin.

5. Skin Remedy
Peppermint herb is highly effective in topical creams used to treat a variety of skin issues. Examples include treatments for hives, rashes, poison oak or poison ivy. When applied to the skin, these ointments have a soothing and healing effect.