Peppermint vs Fennel

Peppermint is a hybrid mint, a cross between watermint and spearmint, widely used in both traditional and modern medicine. It is particularly valued for its digestive and analgesic properties. Peppermint oil is one of the most well-researched essential oils for irritable bowel syndrome.

Fennel is an aromatic herb native to the Mediterranean, used medicinally since ancient Egyptian times. It is particularly valued for digestive complaints, especially gas and bloating, and has been used traditionally to promote lactation and soothe infant colic. Its pleasant licorice-like flavor makes it one of the most palatable medicinal herbs.

Menthol, Menthone, Menthyl acetate, Rosmarinic acid, Luteolin

Anethole, Fenchone, Estragole, Limonene, Quercetin

Digestive aid, Headache relief, Cold and flu treatment, Nausea remedy, Fever reducer

Digestive aid, Gas and bloating relief, Lactation promoter, Colic treatment, Eye wash

Irritable bowel syndrome, Tension headaches, Nausea, Common cold symptoms, Functional dyspepsia

Infantile colic, Dyspepsia and bloating, Lactation support, Irritable bowel syndrome, Menstrual pain

1-2 enteric-coated capsules (0.2ml oil each) 3 times daily, or 1-3 cups tea daily

1-2 teaspoons crushed seeds as tea 2-3 times daily, or 100-400mg extract daily

GERD or hiatal hernia, Gallbladder disorders, Infants and very young children (menthol risk)

Estrogen-sensitive conditions, Allergy to celery or carrot family

Heartburn, Nausea at high doses, Allergic reactions, Perianal burning with enteric-coated capsules, Mouth sores from oil

Allergic reactions, Photosensitivity, Nausea (high doses), Premature breast development (theoretical from estrogenic effects)