What are some natural ways to relieve symptoms of IBS?

Reviewed by Yoshinori Abe, MD

Internal Medicine

Peppermint oil is a natural remedy that may help relieve irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) symptoms, including abdominal pain, bloating, and cramping. It works by relaxing the smooth muscles of the gastrointestinal tract, which can ease spasms and improve digestion. Enteric-coated peppermint oil capsules are often recommended, as they release the oil in the intestines rather than the stomach, reducing the risk of heartburn.

While peppermint oil can offer relief, IBS symptoms often overlap with other digestive conditions, so understanding the root cause is essential. Take a free, instant, online symptom check to gain personalized insight into your symptoms and confidently plan your next steps toward feeling better.

Reviewed for medical accuracy: 07/14/2026

Important Next Steps

Discover likely causes of IBS symptoms Learn if IBS symptoms need care Find out what’s causing your symptoms See OTC options for IBS relief Find an IBS specialist near you Understand medically valid IBS home remedies Check if symptoms suggest IBS today

Not seeing your question? No worries.

Submit your own Question

Explanation

Peppermint oil is a natural treatment that can help people with irritable bowel syndrome, or IBS. It works by relaxing the muscles in your gut, which can help reduce symptoms like stomach pain and bloating.

How Peppermint Oil Helps

Muscle Relaxation: Peppermint oil helps your gut muscles relax, making it easier for food to pass through.
Symptom Relief: This can help with common IBS symptoms like stomach pain and bloating.

Safety and Use

Safe to Use: Studies show that peppermint oil is safe for most people.
Consult a Doctor: It's always a good idea to talk to your doctor before trying new treatments.

These findings are based on research studies that looked at how peppermint oil works and its safety for people with IBS. If you're experiencing digestive symptoms and want to understand what might be causing them, try our free AI symptom checker to get personalized insights. Always make sure to use treatments as directed and consult with a healthcare provider for personalized advice.

(References)

Khanna R, MacDonald JK, & Levesque BG. (2014). Peppermint oil for the treatment of irritable bowel syndrome. Journal of clinical gastroenterology, 24100754.
Chumpitazi BP, Kearns GL, & Shulman RJ. (2018). the physiological effects and safety of peppermint oil .... Alimentary pharmacology & therapeutics, 29372567.
Weerts ZZRM, Masclee AAM, Witteman BJM, Clemens CHM, Winkens B, Brouwers JRBJ, et al. (2020). Efficacy and Safety of Peppermint Oil in a Randomized .... Gastroenterology, 31470006.

Thinking about asking ChatGPT?Ask me instead

Tell your friends about us.

We would love to help them too.

For First Time Users

What is Ubie’s Doctor’s Note?

We provide a database of explanations from real doctors on a range of medical topics. Get started by exploring our library of questions and topics you want to learn more about.

Was this page helpful?

Purpose and positioning of servicesUbie Doctor's Note is a service for informational purposes. The provision of information by physicians, medical professionals, etc. is not a medical treatment. If medical treatment is required, please consult your doctor or medical institution. We strive to provide reliable and accurate information, but we do not guarantee the completeness of the content. If you find any errors in the information, please contact us.