Peppermint essential oil (Mentha x piperita) is produced from the perennial herb through the process of steam distillation. It has a strong fresh, minty herbal smell. It is cooling and warming, uplifting and energizing, depending on its application. Peppermint is often used in cooking, as a flavoring for food, and is found in many toothpastes, mouth washes, breath fresheners, and soaps. I find its used often during the holidays for mint candies, cookies, and room sprays.
Peppermint oil is generally safe. Some people, however, may find that it can cause some irritation to their skin or mucous membranes causing them to be over sensitive to it. It may also counteract homeopathic remedies, so if you are taking homeopathic remedies, you may want to stay away from peppermint oil. You should also avoid using the oil with children under 5 years of age because it can be too much for their nervous system when applied near their face. Tisserand says it may be contraindicated in cases of cardiac fibrillation, and may potentially affect blood clotting.
Peppermint essential oil is high in menthol. It is best known as an analgesic, anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, antifungal, antispasmodic, antiviral, astringent, decongestant, expectorant, and being liver supportive and protective.
Traditional Uses of Peppermint Essential Oil
Peppermint oil is another versatile oil that is great to always have on hand. It is very beneficial in pain relief creams, massage oils, or salves to help with muscle pain, bruises, and joint pain. Peppermint oil (if ingesting it, make sure you get some that is safe for internal use) is helpful to settle an upset stomach. It can improve focus and concentration when your brain begins to tire. Peppermint essential oil is beneficial for colds, flus, headaches and fevers and helps to relieve sinus congestion. It is useful for many different types of skin irritations including insect bites, however, make sure to use no more than 4-6 drops per ounce. I love to use peppermint to refresh my tired achy feet!
Using Peppermint
Peppermint works great for tired achy feet. I use it with some epsom salt in a foot soak. Take 1/2 cup of Epsom Salt and mix in 1 -2 drops of peppermint essential oil, add to a basin or tub of warm water and soak your feet for 15- 20 minutes. Refreshing!
For gas, pain or abdominal bloating, you can use peppermint essential oil mixed in a massage oil. Try 1 oz of Jojoba Oil and adding 2 drops of peppermint and 4 drops of chamomile or lavender and apply it to the abdomen for relief.
For congestion or sinus headaches I usually make a roll on. Take a 10ml roll on bottle and fill it with jojoba or almond oil and mix in 1-2 drops of peppermint, 2-3 drops of lavender, and 2 drops of frankincense and apply.
Peppermint Essential Oil is in the following AskMara Products: Relief Aromatherapy Massage Oil and Peppermint Lip Balm.
You can purchase Peppermint Essential oil by Visiting my NSP Website. In fact it is part of their Essential Oil Starter Kit.
Remember to follow suggested safety practices when using essential oils.
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