Peppermint oil improves the manometric findings in diffuse esophageal spasm

Area of Science:

• Gastroenterology
• Esophageal Motility Disorders
• Pharmacology

Background:

• Diffuse esophageal spasm (DES) is a rare esophageal motility disorder characterized by simultaneous contractions.
• Current medical treatments for DES often yield unsatisfactory results.
• Peppermint oil, known for its smooth muscle relaxant properties, was investigated for its potential therapeutic effects in DES.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the efficacy of peppermint oil in improving manometric findings in patients diagnosed with diffuse esophageal spasm.
• To assess the impact of peppermint oil on esophageal body contractions and lower esophageal sphincter pressure.

Main Methods:

• Eight patients with DES underwent esophageal manometry.
• Measurements of lower esophageal sphincter pressure and esophageal body contractions were taken before and after ingesting peppermint oil.
• Key parameters assessed included contraction duration, amplitude, and the proportion of simultaneous and multiphasic contractions.

Main Results:

• Peppermint oil completely eliminated simultaneous esophageal contractions in all patients.
• Significant improvements were observed in the variability of esophageal contraction amplitude and duration.
• Two patients reported resolution of chest pain after peppermint oil ingestion.

Conclusions:

• Peppermint oil demonstrates a significant positive impact on the manometric features of diffuse esophageal spasm.
• This suggests peppermint oil may be a viable therapeutic option for managing DES symptoms.