Evidence supporting the use of: Peppermint oil
For the health condition: Morning Sickness

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Synopsis

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

Peppermint oil has a long history of use in traditional medicine systems, particularly for digestive complaints such as nausea and indigestion. Its use to support or treat morning sickness (nausea and vomiting in pregnancy) is primarily based on this tradition rather than strong scientific validation. Historical and folk medicine sources often recommend peppermint in various forms—herbal teas, inhaled vapors, and topical preparations—for nausea relief. The mechanism is thought to involve menthol, a main compound in peppermint oil, which may exert a relaxing effect on the gastrointestinal tract and provide a sensation of freshness that can help reduce the perception of nausea.

However, scientific studies on the efficacy of peppermint oil specifically for morning sickness are limited and have produced mixed results. Most clinical research on peppermint oil focuses on its role in irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) rather than pregnancy-related nausea. A few small studies and anecdotal reports suggest that inhaling peppermint oil may reduce nausea in some contexts (such as postoperative nausea), but data specific to pregnancy are sparse. Safety concerns also exist regarding the use of concentrated essential oils in pregnancy, as some sources advise caution.

In summary, while peppermint oil is traditionally used for nausea and is sometimes employed by pregnant women for morning sickness, the scientific evidence for its effectiveness and safety in this specific context is limited. Consultation with a healthcare provider is recommended before use during pregnancy.

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