Ether Oil (menthol) no less than 1% Internally, peppermint has an antispasmodic action, with a calming iffect on the stomach and intestinal tract. As a tea, or in a capsule, peppermint is useful for indigestion, cramp-like discomfort of the upper gastrointestinal and bile duct, irritable bowel syndrome and inflammation or irritation of the gums.