Evidence supporting the use of: Peppermint leaf
For the health condition: Bites and Stings

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Synopsis

Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 2

Peppermint leaf (Mentha × piperita) has a long history of traditional use for soothing minor skin irritations, including bites and stings. Folk medicine practices across various cultures have applied crushed peppermint leaves or peppermint oil topically to affected skin to provide relief from itching, inflammation, and discomfort caused by insect bites or stings. This use is largely attributed to the cooling sensation produced by menthol, a chief constituent of peppermint, which can produce a counter-irritant effect that distracts from itch or pain and may temporarily reduce inflammation at the site.

However, scientific validation for the effectiveness of peppermint leaf specifically in treating bites and stings is limited. While menthol has mild local anesthetic and antipruritic (anti-itch) effects, and some small studies or case reports suggest potential benefit for pruritus, robust clinical trials specifically assessing peppermint leaf or oil for insect bites or stings are lacking. Most available evidence remains anecdotal or based on expert opinion from traditional herbalist sources. Thus, while peppermint leaf is traditionally used for this purpose, scientific evidence supporting its efficacy and safety for treating bites and stings is modest, and potential for skin irritation or allergic reaction from topical application should be considered.

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