Peppermint leaf on the label
The current label lists peppermint leaf as one component of the 550 mg proprietary blend. The same blend also lists microencapsulated peppermint oil, so the two entries should not be collapsed into one ingredient when discussing the label.
Leaf, tea and essential oil are different preparations
Peppermint leaf, peppermint tea, extracts and peppermint essential oil have different concentrations and research histories. NCCIH notes that much of the better-known clinical evidence for peppermint involves enteric-coated peppermint oil in gastrointestinal conditions. That evidence does not establish a respiratory effect from peppermint leaf in a multi-ingredient supplement.
How to interpret peppermint research
A useful evidence review asks whether a study used the same preparation, route and dose. If a trial tested capsules of peppermint oil, it cannot be treated as direct evidence for a small undisclosed amount of peppermint leaf inside a proprietary liquid blend.
Breathe has not been represented on this site as clinically proven based on peppermint research.
Safety considerations
Peppermint preparations can cause adverse effects in some people. NCCIH notes that orally consumed peppermint oil may cause heartburn, nausea, abdominal pain and dry mouth. Individual tolerance and medication use matter, so discuss supplement use with a healthcare professional when relevant.
References & further reading
- FDA — Dietary Supplement Labeling Guide — background on Supplement Facts and proprietary blends
- NCCIH — Peppermint Oil — evidence and safety overview