The Peppermint plant is a hybrid of Spearmint and water mint plants. It is a perennial herb that grows to around 45 – 60 centimetres tall, and thrives in wet areas by streams or in locations with plenty of rainfall. It is cultivated in Europe, Asia, and North America.
The plant has a square stem and grows purple flowers and dark green leaves. Peppermint essential oil is extracted from the leaves.
The earliest evidence of Peppermint use dates back to the ancient Egyptians, as dried Peppermint leaves were discovered entombed within several pyramids. Peppermint is also mentioned in Greek mythology, and has a long history of use in Japanese and Chinese folk medicine.
Peppermint is considered to be one of the most versatile essential oils. Internal use supports the digestive and respiratory systems, whilst topical application can help to relieve muscle and joint point. Aromatic use supports the sinuses and helps with seasonal allergy relief.
Aromatic
Use three to four drops in a diffuser of your choice.
Topical
Dilute Peppermint essential oil with a carrier oil before topical application.
Top Properties
- Anti-inflammatory
- Antispasmodic
- Analgesic
- Invigorating
- Warming
- Cooling
- Vasoconstrictor
- Expectorant
- Stimulating
Safety
Peppermint essential oil should be diluted with a carrier oil prior to topical application due to possible skin sensitivity. Avoid using at night as it is a stimulant.
Blends well with
Top uses
Relieves mental fatigue
Peppermint is an invigorating essential oil, and as such it promotes energy and alertness. Dilute and apply to the back of the neck and under the nose, or inhale to boost your energy.
Helps to cool the body down
Peppermint is also known for its cooling properties, making it helpful for providing a cooling effect in the event of fevers or hot flashes. Dilute and apply to the back of the neck, the bottom of the feet, or the spine.
Soothes burns and sunburn
The cooling benefits of Peppermint are also useful for soothing burns and sunburn. Dilute and apply topically to the burned skin.
Helps with mild memory issues
As well as improving alertness, Peppermint essential oil may also assist with mild memory issues. Apply topically to the back of the neck, the spine, or the bottom of the feet.
Helps to reduce cravings and appetite
Using Peppermint essential oil before or in between meals can reduce cravings and suppress the appetite. Take a drop under the tongue, inhale, or dilute and apply under the nose.
Relieves muscle stiffness and tension
Peppermint’s cooling, invigorating, and antispasmodic properties make it beneficial for relieving stiffness and tension in the muscles. Dilute and apply to stiff, tense, or exhausted muscles, or apply pre-workout.
Relieves the symptoms of seasonal allergies
Take Peppermint essential oil in a capsule or add a few drops to a glass of water, or apply to the bottom of the feet or under the nose to relieve the symptoms of seasonal allergies.
Relieves tension in the head and neck
Apply Peppermint essential oil to the temples, the back of the neck, and above the ears to soothe head and neck tension.
Freshens bad breath
The refreshing, minty scent and flavour of Peppermint make it an effective breath freshener. Add a drop to a glass of water and gargle.
Supports the respiratory system
Peppermint can help to clear the airways and ease congestion. Apply to the chest and back, or the bottom of the feet.
Maintains sense of smell
Maintain your sense of smell by inhaling Peppermint essential oil, or diluting and applying over the bridge of the nose.
Supports the digestive system
Add a few drops of Peppermint essential oil to a glass of water, take in a capsule, or dilute and apply over the abdomen to help maintain a healthy digestive system.
Restores emotional balance
Use aromatically and topically to go from feeling hindered to feeling invigorated.
Karen –
Love peppermint oil
Add to my diffusers
In cleaning
In my rinse cycle washing cloths
I have put it in cupcake icing mixture
Yum
Paul C –
Peppermint Oil is a great product for the upset stomach. Just two drops in a cup of hot water, magic.
Thanks again
Paul