It is universally accepted as the standard flavour for toothpaste. Peppermint, the oral care superstar, also has multiple medicinal uses.

Traces of Peppermint essential oil have been found in the pyramids of Egypt and records show that this herb has been used in ancient Chinese herbal medicine. However, it is almost universally associated with oral health and that all-important fresh tingly feeling you get from brushing or a good swish from your mouthwash.

Peppermint toothpaste has long been the firm favourite for the vast majority of households. What is it about Peppermint that ties it so strongly with our oral health care routine? Why do we love peppermint flavour toothpaste?

What is Peppermint used for

Peppermint leaves are often used in tea to help digestion or ease nausea. The leaves can be chewed to help freshen breath or soothe gums. 

Topically it can be used to ease muscle pains and headaches. It’s often applied to the skin to ease rashes or redness. It’s important to note, however, that peppermint oil is extremely potent and needs to be correctly diluted before being applied to the skin

Why is toothpaste mint flavoured?

If you are familiar with our story, you will know that the very first formula that Truthpaste founder, Marisa came up with was…a bit on the bitter side. The truth is that without some sort of flavouring, all toothpastes would taste bitter, bland or just plain horrible. 

Mint is an obvious choice as it gives the whole mouth a fresh feeling. This is a feeling that has become synonymous with feeling clean since toothpaste became commonplace in the early 19th century. 

Toothpaste could theoretically be any flavour. Manufacturers have been creative in the past, concocting such novelties as cupcake flavour and bacon flavour toothpaste. Unsurprisingly, these did not spark a rise in customer demand for novelty toothpastes and did not enjoy global popularity. 

Peppermint has, however, remained a firm favourite with consumers. Studies have confirmed that Peppermint is more than just a fresh flavour. The antibacterial properties in menthol actively work to fight plaque and gingivitis

Is peppermint good for oral health?

The active compound in Peppermint is menthol. Studies have shown that this has a mild numbing effect which can soothe sore gums. The menthol compound tricks the brain into thinking that you have something cooling in your mouth which is where that fresh sensation comes from. 

Studies on Peppermint Essential oil have shown that it contains antibacterial, anti-inflammatory and antifungal properties which actively help to fight plaque, protect enamel and bad breath. So whilst peppermint flavour toothpaste may just seem like an easy choice to help your mouth feel fresh, there are significant benefits to using it in your oral health care routine. 

Peppermint in toothpaste

It’s true that there are other ingredients that are beneficial to our oral health. This is why at Truthpaste, we handpick all of our essential oils, not just for their flavour but for antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. There are a growing number of new flavours out there to choose from and growing demand for them. We’ve been delighted to see that our Fennel and Orange & Fennel have been so popular with customers. However, it will take a very strong contender to knock peppermint from the top spot!

Resources

 Ali, B., et al. (2015). Essential oils used in aromatherapy: A systemic review [Abstract]. Asian Pacific Journal of Tropical Biomedicine

 Joulaeerad, N., et al. (2018). Effect of aromatherapy with peppermint oil on the severity of nausea and vomiting in pregnancy: A single-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled trial.© 2017, Avicenna Research Institute.

 Nidhal A Ali, Maha J Abbas and Fouad H AL-Bayaty  (2014): Evaluation of Potential Effect of Menthol Solution on Oral Hygiene Status of Dental Students in a University in Iraq, Tropical Journal of Pharmaceutical Research

 Kelly Bryant, (2021) Why Is Toothpaste Mint Flavored? Readers Digest, www.rd.com

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