7 Surprising Benefits of Peppermint Essential Oil
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Peppermint oil can be used for a variety of different purposes, which is probably why it is the most popular essential oil in the world. It has been utilized for thousands of years for medical purposes, even dating back to Ancient Egypt, Greece and Rome.
Peppermint oil is created from the peppermint plant – a cross between water mint and spearmint that thrives in both Europe and North America. The oil is extracted from the leaves through the process of steam distillation. Peppermint leaves are known to contain up to 1% of essential oil.
Peppermint oil is extremely versatile and can be applied in numerous ways, including, flavouring for foods and beverages, cosmetics, aromatherapy and as a cleaning agent around the house.
Peppermint can also be taken in a capsule as a dietary supplement. Here are 7 ways peppermint oil can benefit you. It’s soon to become one of your favorite and most used oils!
1. Relieve muscle and joint pain
Peppermint oil is often used as a natural painkiller and muscle relaxant and can help to soothe the pain and inflammation of achy back, muscles and joints by rubbing oil on the affected area.
2. Respiratory problems
Colds, the flu, coughs, asthma and bronchitis can all cause uncomfortable breathing problems. Peppermint oil has been found to help with respiratory relief and fight infections. Adding a few drops into a diffuser can help clear out sinuses and any mucus, open airways and helps reduce congestion.
3. Increases energy
The methional found in high concentrations of peppermint essential oil works to boost your energy, helps improve memory and alertness and can overall boost your spirit. To achieve this, add 1-2 drops internally with a glass of water, or you can apply topically to your temples and back of neck.
4. Improves IBS symptoms
Some research has shown that peppermint is effective in providing relief of Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) symptoms. It can provide an anti-inflammatory effect, relax and soothe the muscles of the GI tract and decrease the pain sensation. The oil can be taken through capsules or add 1-2 drops into a glass of warm water or tea.
5. Relief from itching
The menthol content in peppermint can help soothe skin and relieve irritation and itching. To help relieve itching, add 2-3 drops to the affected area, or, 5-10 drops into a warm bath. For further itch relief, combine with lavender oil as it also has soothing properties.
6. Nausea
Peppermint oil is the most powerful oil to reduce nausea and vomiting. It works by improving digestion and reducing inflammation within the stomach. To reduce nausea, inhale peppermint oil directly from the bottle, gently rub 2-3 drops behind your ears, or add a few drops of oil in a diffuser.
7. Freshens air
Peppermint oil is great to help freshen air in your home or workplace as it has a sharp odor that’s cool and refreshing. The quality of the air we breathe is important. Diffusing the oil will help purify the air and keep it fresh and clean.
Although peppermint oil can be a natural benefit, there are safety issues and side effects to keep in mind. It is important to be aware that peppermint aromatherapy can be harmful to pets. Before using aromatherapy, consider children, pets and pregnant women.
Peppermint oil is very concentrated and should be diluted when being used on sensitive skin. Try testing the oil on a small patch of skin first. Please note that taking an excessive amount of peppermint oil orally can be toxic. Side effects of peppermint oil can include heartburn, flushing, mouth sores and headaches.
Recipes
You can also combine essential oils to make your own custom blend. In a diffuser, peppermint is known to blend well with eucalyptus, lavender, lemon, tangerine, sweet orange and rosemary.
If you are looking for a peppermint oil blend to help create a fresh air feel, look no further. This diffuser blend can help to purify your air:
4 drops vetiver
3 drops lemon
3 drops peppermint
Another diffuser blend that can help to keep nasty colds and flu’s away is:
5 drops rosemary
4 drops eucalyptus
4 drops peppermint
3 drops cypress
2 drops lemon
I have chosen to use essential oils from ECO. Modern Essentials. You can find out more about their extensive range of single oils, blends and accessories here.