Medicinal Plant Research 2024, Vol.14, No.3, 151-161 http://hortherbpublisher.com/index.php/mpr 154 The study of Weerts et al. (2019) illustrates the effect of peppermint oil formulations on abdominal pain and discomfort over an 8-week period. The small intestinal release peppermint oil significantly reduced both pain and discomfort compared to placebo, particularly noticeable at week 8 for pain and at weeks 6 and 7 for discomfort. The ileocolonic release peppermint oil did not show a significant difference from placebo. This suggests that peppermint oil targeting the small intestine may be more effective for relieving symptoms related to abdominal pain and discomfort in the studied population. Peppermint tea has been traditionally used to alleviate symptoms of indigestion and bloating. Clinical studies have shown that peppermint oil can reduce the duration, frequency, and severity of pain in children suffering from functional abdominal pain, indicating its potential benefits for broader digestive health issues (Anheyer et al., 2017). Additionally, peppermint's muscle relaxant properties help in reducing bloating and discomfort associated with indigestion. 3.3 Applications in managing gastrointestinal disorders Peppermint oil has been suggested as a treatment for functional dyspepsia due to its ability to relax gastrointestinal muscles and modulate gastrointestinal sensitivity. This makes it a promising alternative to traditional pharmacological treatments, offering a safer profile with fewer side effects. The herbal preparation STW 5, which includes peppermint, has shown pro-secretory effects that may contribute to its efficacy in treating functional dyspepsia (Allam et al., 2015). While peppermint oil is beneficial for various gastrointestinal disorders, its use in treating GERD is more complex. The muscle relaxant properties of peppermint can potentially relax the lower esophageal sphincter, which might exacerbate GERD symptoms. However, its overall soothing effects on the gastrointestinal tract may still offer some benefits in managing mild cases of GERD when used cautiously. In summary, peppermint tea and its active compounds have demonstrated significant digestive benefits through muscle relaxation, enhanced bile flow, and clinical efficacy in managing conditions like IBS and functional dyspepsia. These properties make it a valuable addition to modern herbal medicine for digestive health. 4 Neuroprotective Effects of Peppermint Tea 4.1 Interaction with the central nervous system Peppermint tea, primarily through its active component menthol, has been shown to interact with the central nervous system by modulating neurotransmitter activity. Menthol can influence the release and uptake of neurotransmitters, which are crucial for maintaining neural communication and overall brain function. This modulation can potentially alleviate symptoms of neurological disorders by balancing neurotransmitter levels and improving synaptic plasticity. The influence of peppermint tea on cognitive function and memory has been a subject of interest due to its potential neuroprotective properties. Studies suggest that the bioactive compounds in peppermint can enhance cognitive performance and memory retention. This is likely due to their ability to reduce oxidative stress and inflammation in the brain, which are known contributors to cognitive decline (Goudarzi et al., 2023). 4.2 Anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties Peppermint tea exhibits significant anti-inflammatory properties, which can be beneficial in reducing neuroinflammation. The anti-inflammatory effects are mediated through various pathways, including the downregulation of pro-inflammatory mediators and the suppression of oxidative stress. These actions help in reducing the levels of neuroinflammation markers, thereby protecting neural tissues from damage (Rahman et al., 2023). The antioxidant properties of peppermint tea play a crucial role in enhancing the brain's defense mechanisms against oxidative stress. The bioactive compounds in peppermint, such as menthol, activate antioxidant pathways and increase the production of antioxidant enzymes. This helps in neutralizing free radicals and reducing oxidative
RkJQdWJsaXNoZXIy MjQ4ODYzNA==