Indicações do óleo essencial de hortelã-pimenta para a saúde humana: revisão da literatura

Abstract

The use of natural products for the treatment of different health problems follows the evolution of man since antiquity, among which are essential oils. In recent decades there has been an increase in essential oil, as well as the interest in studies about their therapeutic potential. The aim of this study was to analyze the knowledge produced about the use of peppermint essential oil for human health. It is, therefore, a literature review study, having as research source the Virtual Health Library, SciELO and Academic Google. Primary studies published in English, Spanish or Portuguese, from 2015 to 2021, that addressed the use of peppermint essential oil in humans were included. The search in these databases and virtual library resulted in the identification of 1777 studies. The study selection process resulted in the exclusion of 1774 studies that did not meet the proposed objective, and the inclusion of 3 studies that were part of the final analysis corpus of this review. The results of the studies evidenced the therapeutic potential of peppermint essential oil in the treatment of anxiety, stress, nausea and vomiting; also, in the improvement of cognitive functions and mood. Thus, peppermint essential oil in aromatherapy represents a therapeutic possibility. However, it emphasizes the need to carry out more studies in different clinical situations and varied populations, as well as with a robust methodology, aiming to expand knowledge and strengthen the evidence for its safe indication and use.