Peppermint for Upset Stomach

To help reduce the symptoms of indigestion, nausea or irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), consider peppermint. The dried leaves of the peppermint plant come in teas (look for 100 percent pure peppermint leaves), oils (both enteric-coated capsules for swallowing, and essential oils for topical use - It is recommended essential oil containing at least 44 percent free menthol), as well as creams and rubs. Please note that children should not be given peppermint tea - it can cause a choking sensation - and adults with gastro-esophageal reflux syndrome (GERD) should avoid peppermint as it can worsen symptoms. In addition, be sure to never ingest undiluted peppermint oil, which can be toxic. If you don't like peppermint, consider chamomile (Matricaria recutita), especially in the form of chamomile tea: it is a soothing solution for upset stomachs, heartburn and indigestion.