Japanese peppermint oil

Japanese peppermint oil – or simply Japanese mint oil – is derived from the Japanese mint (Mentha arvensis).

Japanese peppermint oil is extracted from the above-ground parts of the plant and is produced by steam distillation.

Japanese peppermint oil contains up to 95% menthol and is therefore used for numerous natural medicinal purposes – more than most other essential oils. However, there is no scientific evidence for these properties.

In this article you will get an overview of Japanese peppermint oil's uses, properties, precautions and side effects.

The effects of Japanese peppermint oil

Undocumented properties

There is no evidence that Japanese peppermint oil can be used to treat or relieve the following diseases or symptoms:

Documented properties

There are not many scientific studies on the effects of Japanese peppermint oil on human health. The focus of most of the studies to date has been more on the oil's effect on pests (especially rice beetles), where it has been shown to be effective, but unfortunately spoils the taste of rice and is therefore considered unsuitable.

Japanese peppermint oil uses

Oral hygiene and cosmetics

Because Japanese peppermint oil contains up to 95% menthol, it has found use in a wide range of commercial products – especially in oral care and cosmetics. Japanese peppermint oil is used in the following products in particular:

Aromatherapy

In aromatherapy, Japanese peppermint oil is mainly used in hot baths and as a massage oil. However, as a massage oil, it should only be used topically (not for full body massage).

Japanese peppermint oil can also be used for inhalation – for example, by dripping a few drops into a pot or tub of boiling water and inhaling – but care should generally be taken when inhaling (see the “Precautions” section at the end of this page.

Japanese peppermint oil is particularly suitable for blending with the following essential oils:

Japanese peppermint oil in capsules and powder

Japanese peppermint oil is available as pure oil, capsules and powder.

Precautions to take

Although Japanese peppermint oil is suitable for both internal and external use, you should always read the instructions carefully as some oils are only suitable for one or the other. In addition, you should be aware of the following:

• Dosage: There is currently no universal recommendation for the dosage of Japanese peppermint oil. The appropriate dosage depends on several factors such as the concentration and composition of the oil as well as the individual's age, health, body weight, etc. Always follow the instructions on the oil's packaging and consult your pharmacist or doctor if in doubt.

• Children: Japanese peppermint oil should not be used around the nose of children as it can cause serious breathing problems.

• Asthma: The high menthol content in Japanese peppermint oil can aggravate asthma. Asthmatics are therefore advised not to use the oil.

• Gallbladder diseases: In some cases, Japanese peppermint oil may aggravate gallbladder diseases (such as gallstones or blocked bile ducts).

• Liver disease: If you have any liver problems, Japanese peppermint oil should not be used as it may worsen these problems.

• Pregnant and breastfeeding women: The effects of Japanese peppermint oil on pregnant or breastfeeding women are not yet known and its use is therefore not recommended.

Side effects of Japanese peppermint oil

The known side effects of Japanese peppermint oil include:

• Headaches
• Allergic reactions
• Redness

• When applied to the face or inhaled:
  • Breathing problems
  • Disruption of the vocal cords

• Deterioration of
  • asthma in asthmatics
  • liver diseases
  • diseases of the gallbladder