This NHS content is written for people in England. Medicine names, availability, prescribing and services may differ in other countries.
Side effects of peppermint oil
These side effects of peppermint oil are usually mild and do not affect everyone. There are things you can do to help cope with them:
Heartburn or indigestion
Eat smaller, more frequent meals. Prop your head and shoulders up in bed, so stomach acid does not travel up towards your throat.
If this lasts for more than a few days, speak to your doctor or a pharmacist and tell them that you're taking peppermint oil.
Itching or irritation around your bottom (anus)
Ask a pharmacist to recommend a cream if it bothers you.
Tell your doctor if this does not go away.
Headaches
Make sure you rest and drink plenty of fluids. It's best not to drink alcohol.
Painkillers you can buy without a prescription, such as paracetamol and ibuprofen, are safe to take with peppermint oil. Speak to your doctor if these do not help or the headaches are severe.
Keep taking peppermint oil, but talk to your doctor or pharmacist if the advice on how to cope does not help and a side effect is still bothering you or does not go away.
View the original NHS website page ↗. Refreshed 19 August 2026.
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