Synopsis

Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 2

Peppermint leaf (Mentha × piperita) has traditionally been used to help relieve symptoms of congestion, including sinus congestion. The primary active constituent in peppermint is menthol, which is well known for its cooling sensation and its ability to provide subjective relief from nasal congestion. However, most of the scientific studies focus on inhaled menthol or peppermint oil rather than peppermint leaf itself. In folk medicine, peppermint teas or infusions are often consumed to soothe the respiratory tract, and steam inhalation with peppermint is a common home remedy for sinus congestion.

Despite its longstanding use, scientific evidence directly supporting peppermint leaf for treating sinus congestion is limited. Some laboratory studies suggest menthol may interact with cold receptors in the nasal passages, making people feel as if airflow is improved, though objective measures of airflow do not always confirm this effect. The European Medicines Agency acknowledges traditional use of peppermint leaf infusions for relief of mild digestive and respiratory discomfort, but does not cite robust clinical trials for sinus congestion specifically.

In summary, peppermint leaf’s use for sinus congestion is primarily supported by tradition and some plausible mechanisms via menthol, but high-quality clinical trials are lacking, especially for the leaf itself rather than concentrated oils or extracts.

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