Research has not found any harmful effects from pregnant women drinking peppermint tea. DO NOT give peppermint to an infant or small child. Learn how we can help How Viagra became a new 'tool' for young men, Ankylosing Spondylitis Pain: Fact or Fiction, Complementary Medicine / Alternative Medicine, https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S2221169115001033?via%3Dihub, https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7868580/, https://bcaoa.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/10/2019_BCAOA_Essential_Oil_Safety_Brochure.pdf, https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4729798/, https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5814329/, https://mnpoison.org/wp-content/uploads/common-drug-interactions.pdf, https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6269770/, https://www.asge.org/docs/default-source/about-asge/newsroom/doc-gerd_infographic_final.pdf, https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5047390/, https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0965229920318549?via%3Dihub, https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27106030/, https://www.spectrumhealth.org/patient-care/digestive-health-and-disorders/gastroenterology/hernia, https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/labs/pmc/articles/PMC7163989/, https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5960050/, https://bmccomplementmedtherapies.biomedcentral.com/track/pdf/10.1186/s12906-016-1079-z.pdf, https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5346861/, https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32310327/, https://naha.org/explore-aromatherapy/about-aromatherapy/methods-of-application/, https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0304394016301446?via%3Dihub, https://tisserandinstitute.org/learn-more/mints/, https://www.mskcc.org/cancer-care/integrative-medicine/herbs/peppermint, https://escholarship.org/content/qt1kb21156/qt1kb21156_noSplash_75fd82059461bb4df017b1c3aff8b9ac.pdf?t=qak1cv. Nervenarzt. They bloom from July through August, sprouting tiny purple flowers in whorls and terminal spikes. The effect of valeric on anxiety severity in women undergoing hysterosalpingography. Blumenthal M, Goldberg A, Brinckmann J. Herbal Medicine: Expanded Commission E Monographs. Two tablespoons of fresh peppermint contain: Peppermint also contains several antioxidants called flavonoids. Researchers in a 2018 study found that a lemon balm supplement reduced symptoms of anxiety, depression, stress, and insomnia in people with a heart condition called angina. Stress is inevitable. This daisy-like flower is synonymous with calm, making it among the most well-known stress-soothing teas. 2007;39:530-536. For adults, dissolve 1 to 2.5 Ashwagandha is an Ayurvedic herb said to help combat stress and fatigue. Between 5 and 20 percent of people suffer from this health condition. 2010;64(4):451-456. doi:10.1111/j.1742-1241.2009.02215.x, Gbel H, Fresenius J, Heinze A, Dworschak M, Soyka D. [Effectiveness of Oleum Menthae Piperitae and Paracetamol in Therapy of Headache of the Tension Type]. However, many of the most popular mints citing these natural sources contain none in their ingredient list or contain only trace amounts. Valerian: Fact sheet for health professionals. Take peppermint at least 2 hours before or after an acid-reducing drug. Peppermint calms the muscles of the stomach and improves the flow of bile, which the body uses to digest fats. Instant effects of peppermint essential oil on the physiological parameters and exercise performance. Peppermint may help improve digestion, freshen your breath and improve Peppermint is originally from Europe, but now people cultivate it all over the world. I've had GERD for 4 months and taking pills and feel better but still bad I always eat peppermint candies which help a lot! Iran J Nurs Midwifery Res. Healthline only shows you brands and products that we stand behind. In India, herbal mixtures containing peppermint treat indigestion, coughs, colds, and other ailments. Essential oils are released when you steep peppermint leaves in hot water. A 2018 review suggests that peppermint, in various forms, can help treat the symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). . Thanks. Along with its principal ingredient rooibos, Get Relaxed includes rose petals, lavender, passionflower, and chamomile. Antioxidants are substances that may help protect your cells against attacks of free radicals, molecules produced when your body breaks down food. For an optimal experience visit our site on another browser. IE 11 is not supported. This article is part of a collection of articles on the health benefits of popular foods. Although artificial flavorings do not provide these benefits, peppermint candies that contain peppermint oil may increase your level of antioxidants. Peppermint is also stimulating and promotes clarity of mind essential for refocusing and regaining control. Peppermint and cinnamon are associated with decreased frustration and greater levels It should not be taken with cyclosporine, a drug taken by organ transplant patients. Affirmations can be a great tool for dealing with anxiety. You can learn more about how we ensure our content is accurate and current by reading our. Also called tulsi, holy basil is related to European and Thai basils. This allows the peppermint to pass into the intestine. This makes it suitable for people who have indigestion. (The sphincter is the muscle that separates the esophagus from the stomach.) (2016). Steep 1 tsp. Could peppermint candy canes stop nausea? Catnip has been traditionally used to relieve anxiety. Medications used for depression and anxiety, for example, often work through serotonin receptors, most of which are found in the gut. (5 grams) dried peppermint leaves in 1 cup boiling water for 10 minutes; strain and cool. These forms and the conditions they may help include: Peppermint oil can help calm the stomach muscles and improve the flow of bile. Issued in furtherance of MSU Extension work, acts of May 8 and June 30, 1914, in cooperation with the U.S. Department of Agriculture. Peppermint aroma was also effective on perceived physical workload, temporal workload, effort, and anxiety [7]. The menthol in peppermint can cause adverse side effects in large amounts. Her articles appear online at Biz Mojo, Walden University and various other websites. Separate research finds that inhaling the scent of peppermint oil may help soothe anxiety in people who were hospitalized for heart attack and childbirth. MSU is an affirmative-action, equal-opportunity employer. Eat foods rich in complex carbohydrates, such as whole grains for example, oatmeal, quinoa, whole-grain breads and whole-grain cereals. This drug, which is usually taken to prevent rejection of a transplanted organ, suppresses the immune system. Both plants may help alleviate digestive symptoms and nausea. Kline RM, Kline JJ, Di Palma J, Barbero GJ. In addition, because peppermint candy contains no fiber, it may encourage overeating by raising your blood sugar and providing little satiation, it says. (: Silly question but are there any health benefits to having peppermint candies? For the best results, a person can add 34 drops of peppermint essential oil to hot water and then inhale the steam. One 2011 study on mice suggests that licorice extract may reduce stress. Adverse events associated with interactions with dietary and herbal supplements among inpatients. Does peppermint candy raise blood pressure? Nabavi, S. M., Suntar, I., Barreca, D., & Khan, H. Phytonutrients in Food: From Traditional to Rational Usage, Woodhead Publishing, 2020. Kylie Jenner shared that she dealt with postpartum depression after both of her pregnancies, though she says the first pregnancy was more difficult. Most candies offer zilch when it comes to nutritional value, but pop-in-your-mouth peppermint sweets boast small amounts of healthy peppermint oil (extracted from the leaves of the peppermint plant) or extract (made by soaking the plant in alcohol). A novel delivery system of peppermint oil is an effective therapy for irritable bowel syndrome symptoms. Srivastava JK, et al. Green tea is also known to help improve focus, since the combined L-theanine and caffeine in the drink help with this, according to a 2010 study. We'll guide you on how to create powerful ones and use them effectively. Among other things, depression can lead to fatigue, lower self-esteem, interrupt sleep patterns, and even result in feelings of hopelessness or unworthiness. As with anxiety, patients who are worried about the effects of antidepressants and psychotherapy are turning to peppermint and other essential oils. cyclosporine, taken by transplant recipients to prevent organ rejection. A 2017 study found that taking a hops supplement can reduce mild symptoms of depression, anxiety, and stress. It may help relieve anxiety-related sleeplessness, but research has been mixed. Kava: A review of the safety of traditional and recreational beverage consumption. Nogoceke, F. P., et al. Peppermint candy, tea or oil can be just what you need to find your focus and ease anxiety. (Enteric-coated capsules keep peppermint oil from being released in the stomach, which can cause heartburn and indigestion.) All rights reserved. Some herbal teas may help take the edge off occasional stress and anxiety, while others may be better used as a routine complementary therapy for an underlying condition. If you experience indigestion due to gastroesophageal reflux disease or GERD you should avoid peppermint. Baek JH, et al. 2012;30:90-104. Effects of peppermint scent on appetite control and caloric intake. She didnt necessarily advise buying bottled tart cherry juice, which may be processed and contain added sugar. Some research has suggested that the oils in peppermint may have, Mint may have a positive effect on allergies, the common cold, indigestion, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), and breastfeeding. Because coffee contains caffeine, it may not work as well as caffeine-free teas for promoting relaxation and calm. Commonly referred to as bad breath, halitosis can cause an unpleasant taste as well as an odor. Gotu kola is used as a traditional medicine and tonic in many Asian cultures. It is also an ingredient in chest rubs used to treat symptoms of the common cold. Contexto: El estrs, los trastornos del sueo y la ansiedad son problemas de salud mental comunes que afectan a muchos estudiantes universitarios. A prospective, randomized double-blind, placebo-controlled study of safety and efficacy of a high-concentration full-spectrum extract of ashwagandha root in reducing stress and anxiety in adults. A person can find peppermint essential oil as an ingredient in tinctures, chest rubs, and creams. Non enteric-coated capsules and peppermint oil can lead to heartburn. Debra Rose Wilson, Ph.D., MSN, R.N., IBCLC, AHN-BC, CHT, Chamomile (Matricaria chamomilla/Chamaemelum nobile), A comparison of the best teas for anxiety, systematicreviewsjournal.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/s13643-016-0325-2, journals.sagepub.com/doi/10.1177/0004867414539198, sites.kowsarpub.com/num/articles/17260.html, ijp-online.com/article.asp?issn=0253-7613;year=2013;volume=45;issue=2;spage=202;epage=203;aulast=Bhatt, content.iospress.com/download/mediterranean-journal-of-nutrition-and-metabolism/mnm4-3-09?id=mediterranean-journal-of-nutrition-and-metabolism%2Fmnm4-3-09, journals.sagepub.com/doi/10.4103/0253-7176.106022, tandfonline.com/doi/full/10.3109/13880209.2010.523832, journals.plos.org/plosone/article?id=10.1371/journal.pone.0157700, onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/abs/10.1002/ptr.5486, medicinaoral.com/medoralfree01/aop/21140.pdf, ccsenet.org/journal/index.php/gjhs/article/view/47200, tandfonline.com/doi/full/10.1080/01443615.2017.1342229, ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC1480656/?page=1, clinicalnutritionespen.com/article/S2405-4577(17)30514-4/fulltext, sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S1756464611000351?via%3Dihub, bmccomplementmedtherapies.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/1472-6882-12-70, journals.plos.org/plosone/article?id=10.1371/journal.pone.0061271, journals.lww.com/psychopharmacology/Citation/2003/10000/St__John_s_Wort_in_Generalized_Anxiety_Disorder_.23.aspx, hormones.gr/8688/article/effects-of-a-hops-%3Cem%3Ehumulus-lupulus%E2%80%A6.html, ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7423266/, sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S122684531630224X?via%3Dihub, sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S094471131630188X?via%3Dihub, onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/abs/10.1002/ptr.3400, journal.muq.ac.ir/browse.php?a_id=142&sid=1&slc_lang=en, sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0195666308003358?via%3Dihub, nccih.nih.gov/news/2002/stjohnswort/q-and-a.htm, journal.restorativemedicine.org/index.php/journal/article/view/37/62, journals.lww.com/menopausejournal/Abstract/2011/09000/Effect_of_valerian_on_sleep_quality_in.6.aspx, ijpba.info/ijpba/index.php/ijpba/article/view/306, jstage.jst.go.jp/article/bpb/40/6/40_b17-00141/_html/-char/en, jmp.ir/browse.php?a_id=1730&sid=1&slc_lang=en, ods.od.nih.gov/factsheets/Valerian-HealthProfessional, sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0378874112004795?via%3Dihub, sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S094471130900261X?via%3Dihub, link.springer.com/article/10.1007%2Fs11064-010-0312-2, Study Finds Depression Risk Greater for E-cigarette Users, I Tried an Anti-Stress Cocktail for 30 Days Heres What Happened, Seeking an Alternative to Self-Harm? "Everything in moderation is the name of the game," says Moskovitz. Its also great for relieving headaches and nausea or any other digestive-related issues (um, hello post-holiday tummy ache). All rights reserved. According to Langevin, mint is a natural appetite suppressant. Last medically reviewed on January 2, 2022, A few studies suggest that peppermint oil can reduce abdominal pain, indigestion, and nausea. We comply with the Federal Trade Commission 1998 Childrens Online Privacy Protection Act (COPPA). Efficacy of Peppermint oil in diarrhea predominant IBS - a double blind randomized placebo - controlled study. (2020). Add in the sugar and mix well. The use of herbs is a time-honored approach to strengthening the body and treating disease. (2012). Its native to the Mediterranean. Shen YH, Nahas R. Complementary and alternative medicine for treatment of irritable bowel syndrome. Fermented foods like miso, kimchi, sauerkraut, pickles and kefir provide a similar benefit. (2011). Aliment Pharmacol Ther. You have physical symptoms like a racing heartbeat. Dig Liver Dis. Home Spices What Is Peppermint Candy Made Of? Here's How Chewing Gum May Help With Acid Reflux, Journal of International Society of Preventive and Community Dentistry: Evaluation of the Use of a Peppermint Mouth Rinse for Halitosis by Girls Studying in Tehran High Schools, Journal of the International Society of Sports Nutrition: The Effects of Peppermint on Exercise Performance, USDA Food Data Central: Peppermint Candy. (2011). Many health benefits have been attributed to spearmint, whether consumed fresh or used as an essential oil. According to a 2019 review , mint commonly acts as a trigger for GERD symptoms. Clinical applications of herbal medicines for anxiety and insomnia; targeting patients with bipolar disorder. Mints sometimes contain derivatives from plants such as peppermint oil or spearmint oil, or wintergreen from the plant genus Gaultheria. Sprinkle the white chocolate layer with crushed peppermint candies. Antimanic-like effects of (R)-()-carvone and (S)-(+)-carvone in mice. Peppermint and its main active agent, menthol, are effective decongestants. Peppermint candies that contain the extracted oil may also ease indigestion and abdominal pain. Peppermint is associated with decreased anxiety and fatigue while driving. Research published in the journal ACS Nano suggests that scientists have found a way to package antimicrobial compounds from peppermint and cinnamon in tiny capsules that can both kill biofilms and actively promote healing. (n.d.). This is the medical term for craving and eating non-food substances. Like many herbs, mint can adversely affect some people. This could reduce the effects of peppermint. This tea uses chamomile, catnip, lavender, and passionflower herbs to offer a host of sleep-enhancing and stress-relieving benefits. It is important not to confuse oil and tincture preparations. They also provide some pain relief. Mediterranean diet: With its focus on fruits, vegetables, whole grains, nuts, beans and olive oil, it naturally includes a plethora of depression-busting foods, she writes. WebPeppermint candies that contain the extracted oil may also ease indigestion and abdominal pain. Peppermint is a plant that is a combination of water mint and spearmint. 2013; 22:27-30. Peppermint is a stimulant, while spearmint is a sedative. Finding the right herbal tea or herbal tea blend can take time. Levy, I., et al. Ancient civilizations like the Greeks and Egyptians used peppermint as medicine. Peppermint was found to enhance memory whereas ylang-ylang impaired it, and lengthened processing speed. Justin has worked in some of the best kitchens in the country, and hes always looking for new challenges and ways to improve his craft. One 2015 study found that valerian extract reduced anxiety in women undergoing a medical procedure. Menthol is also an expectorant. Effect of valerian on sleep quality in postmenopausal women: A randomized placebo-controlled clinical trial. Although catnip is a stimulant for cats, it can be used to create a soothing drink for humans. is more known for it's calming effects on the. You are what you eat so its not surprising a doctor will advise a proper diet to address everything from heart disease to obesity. It also promoted the growth of fibroblasts, a cell type that is important in wound healing. The herbs signature minty taste adds flavor to breath mints, candies, and toothpaste. People dont think about it because the brain and the gut are housed in different parts of the body, but the two are joined by the vagus nerve, which carries signals between them, leading to a lifelong gut-brain romance, she writes in her new book, This Is Your Brain on Food: An Indispensable Guide to the Surprising Foods that Fight Depression, Anxiety, PTSD, OCD, ADHD, and More.. One thing to remember is that A mint relative with a lemony fragrance, lemon balm is a widely used treatment for sleeplessness, anxiety, and depression. Ooi SL, et al. 2004-2023 Healthline Media UK Ltd, Brighton, UK, a Red Ventures Company. Peppermint may interact with some drugs, including: It seems that peppermint has a lowering effect on the heart rate and the systolic blood pressure. While mints and candy canes use peppermint oil or extract for flavor, the added sugars they contain provide zero nutritional value; plus, eating too many can lead to blood sugar spikes and crashes, says Moskovitz. Heres why TikToks Shy Girl Workout trend may be just the thing you need to help tackle your gymtimidation. Yes, it freshens your breath, but its actually a natural antiseptic, so it helps keep your teeth and gums healthy. While this refreshing oil may provide some modest pluses for your health, try turning to different methods other than sucking on candy if you want to really reap those peppermint oil benefits. Peppermint (Mentha piperita), a popular flavoring for gum, toothpaste, and tea, is also used to soothe an upset stomach or to aid digestion. Connect with a U.S. board-certified doctor by text or video anytime, anywhere. Turmeric: the spice and its active ingredient, curcumin, make an appearance in Naidoos book over and over again. It consists of a chocolate cake base layer, topped with peppermint-flavored marshmallow creme and sprinkled with chunks of crunchy candy cane. Created for people with ongoing healthcare needs but benefits everyone. Peppermint (mentha piperita), which is derived from spearmint, contains more than 30% menthol and up to 0.2% carvone. Native to the Middle East and Europe, peppermint is now cultivated around the world. Speak with your health care provider. I have GERD and the medicine they have me helps but does not control it. Iron or zinc deficiency is sometimes associated with a condition called pica. Here is a sample of food-as-mental-health-medicine that may surprise you: Yogurt: It contains active cultures that provide a probiotic benefit they promote the good bacteria in your gut, some of which can boost levels of certain brain chemicals that may help relieve depression, Naidoo noted. Can diet help improve depression symptoms? We link primary sources including studies, scientific references, and statistics within each article and also list them in the resources section at the bottom of our articles. (2016). However, studies have either been inconclusive or contradictory. calcium channel blockers and other drugs used for hypertension or high blood pressure. DO NOT take peppermint or drink peppermint tea if you have gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD -- a condition where stomach acids back up into the esophagus), or hiatal hernia. A person should always do a patch test before trying a new essential oil. (2016). WebPeppermint altoids candy helps calm me when i have an anxiety attack but i fear it's messing up my stomach. Find out which essential oils you can use for anxiety symptoms. Methods of application: Aromatherapy massage, body, and facial oils. Peel off the foil. Peppermint can also trigger side effects in some individuals. Steer clear of foods that contain simple carbohydrates, such as sugary foods and drinks. While mint coffee or cookies qualify as food, mint-flavored lip balm certainly does not! (2018). 2016;21(4):363-367. doi:10.4103/1735-9066.185574. (2013). You can learn more about how we ensure our content is accurate and current by reading our. (n.d.). Menthol, one of the essential oils in peppermint leaves, is known as an effective decongestant. Common sweetener erythritol tied to higher risk of stroke and heart attack, Gout: How metabolic syndrome may increase the risk, A new therapeutic target for the prevention of heart failure due to aortic stenosis, Skipping breakfast and fasting may compromise the immune system, Debra Rose Wilson, Ph.D., MSN, R.N., IBCLC, AHN-BC, CHT, Benefits, uses, and side effects of Echinacea. We include products we think are useful for our readers. 2006;20:619-633. Review. Madisch A, Holtmann G, Mayr G, Vinson B, Hotz J. J Gastroenterol Hepatol. Kids also feel the effects of stress. Apaydin EA, et al. Early effects of peppermint oil on gastric emptying: a crossover study using a continuous real-time 13C breath test (BreathID system). WebPeppermint (Mentha piperita), a popular flavoring for gum, toothpaste, and tea, is also used to soothe an upset stomach or to aid digestion. We all have to eat. National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health. Before adding peppermint tea to your diet, talk to your doctor about these considerations: Peppermint can help with digestion and stomach pain but can worsen acid reflux. MNT is the registered trade mark of Healthline Media. With its anti-inflammatory properties, peppermint is also your pal if you have a sore throat, according to Leslie Langevin, RD, author of The Anti-Inflammatory Kitchen Cookbook. Hi there ! Peppermint candies that contain the extracted oil may also ease indigestion and abdominal pain. Take these along on trips to enjoy when your stomach begins to feel queasy from flying or driving. Store the bark in a covered container at cool room temperature, or in the refrigerator, for up to 1 week. One 2016 study found that long-term use of chamomile extract significantly reduced moderate to severe symptoms of generalized anxiety disorder (GAD). Evaluation of mint efficacy regarding dysmenorrhea in comparison with mefenamic acid: A double blinded randomized crossover study. The USDAs database indicates that three pieces of peppermint candy total about 60 calories, which falls neatly into the acceptable snack category for most people. Lang M, et al. A review of 19 other studies showed that while the evidence for using herbal remedies for migraine is inconsistent, the effect of menthol (the key ingredient in peppermint) may be positive. Furthermore, a study on the effects of peppermint and cinnamon on drivers conducted by the Wheeling Jesuit University showed remarkable results that included: Remember, the next time you or a child you know is facing a stressful situation, consider that research says peppermint can help! Some studies show that peppermint may lower your blood sugar and blood pressure as well, so its not recommended for people taking medication for diabetes or blood pressure issues. The amount of peppermint normally found in food is likely to be safe during pregnancy, but not enough is known about the effects of larger supplemental amounts. Peppermint hard candy, on the other hand, does not have the same effect. Laura Wallace Henderson, a professional freelance writer, began writing in 1989. Baking soda can also soothe nausea because it works as an antacid to neutralize a sour stomach, according to the Mayo Clinic. Mymensingh Med J. The leaves and stems, which contain menthol (a volatile oil), are used medicinally, as a flavoring in food, and in cosmetics (for fragrance). Trying to resist the urge to self-harm? (2017). What Is The Vanilla Capital Of The World? While mint coffee or cookies qualify as food, mint-flavored lip balm certainly does not! Peppermint and spearmint are similar plants, but they have different consistencies and benefits. Peppermint is a popular traditional remedy for a number of conditions. (2011). Sucking on a mint or candy is also soothing and relaxing and can be a sweet distraction from a stressful situation. Hi, my top teeth to the right the back tooth to the right just started hurting. Remember, the next time you or a child you know is facing a stressful situation, consider that research says peppermint can help! Peppermint candy, tea or oil can be just what you need to find your focus and ease anxiety. This article was published by Michigan State University Extension. Catnip: Its uses and effects, past and present. Kobak K, et al. Another study comparing enteric-coated peppermint oil capsules to placebo in children with IBS found that after 2 weeks, 75% of those treated had reduced symptoms. J Microbiol Immunol Infect. If youve ever suffered anxiety, youll also know about the mind fog that comes with feeling overwhelmed. Be sure to consult with your physician before taking peppermint oil or anything that contains the oil. 2009;55:143-148. Yes peppermint is known to have a calming effect. ", Read more: 5 Easy Ways to Cut Down on Sugar. Cutaneous application of menthol 10% solution as an abortive treatment of migraine without aura: a randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled, crossed-over study. (2013). Tea. From reducing bad breath to calming an upset stomach, peppermint packs a plethora of benefits for your body. (2008). Finally, a more recent study conducted in Taiwan found that patients who took an enteric-coated peppermint oil formulation 3 to 4 times daily for 1 month had less abdominal distention, stool frequency, and flatulence than those who took a placebo. Besides adding flavor to foods and drinks, it may help manage digestive problems, nausea, headaches, and other health issues.