The coated one
Enteric-coated peppermint oil capsules
A coating lets it open in the intestine, where it helps IBS, instead of the stomach.
Good for: Gas & bloating
What variations of peppermint oil exist?
A cooling oil that relaxes the muscles of the gut. Enteric-coated capsules are among the best-studied natural options for IBS. It comes in 3 forms, and they aren't all the same. Here's how they differ.
For education only. What's right for you depends on your health and your medications, so check with your provider before you start or switch. Book a consult
Our top pick
- Also consider
- Easy to take: the soothing cup (Peppermint tea)
Every form, in plain words
The coated one
Enteric-coated peppermint oil capsules
A coating lets it open in the intestine, where it helps IBS, instead of the stomach.
Good for: Gas & bloating
The soothing cup
Peppermint tea
Fine for mild indigestion, but much weaker.
Good for: Gas & bloating · Easy to take
Usually skip
- The heartburn one (Uncoated peppermint oil capsules)Opens in the stomach and often causes heartburn.
Spotting a good one on the shelf
Look for
- Look for 'Enteric-coated peppermint oil capsules' on the label (the coated one)
Watch out for
- Not labeled 'enteric-coated' (a coating that keeps it from opening in the stomach)
Check with your provider first if…
- You have heartburn, reflux, or a hiatal hernia (it can make reflux worse)
- You take acid-reducing medicine, which can dissolve the coating too early
- Don't put peppermint oil near the face of babies or young children
In Dr. Lesher's store
One product in Dr. Lesher's dispensary has peppermint oil. Here's which form, where the label says.
Check with your provider before taking any of these, especially if you're pregnant or take medications.
Vitanica
Nausea Ease
25 mg per serving
Ready to find the root cause?
Dr. Lesher is a Naturopathic Doctor who focuses on autoimmune and chronic conditions in women. Since 2020, she's helped hundreds of patients stop managing symptoms and start healing.