Peppermint essential oil has so many uses, it's no wonder this oil is a staple in many people's medicine cabinets. And it certainly does much more than freshen your breath! It's used to soothe nausea and other stomach issues, perk the senses up before a long meeting, and cool overworked muscles (thanks to the menthol). Luckily, peppermint also helps to clear congestion, quiet headaches and tackle symptoms from PMS.
It's important to note that peppermint essential oil is intense and far more concentrated than other essential oils. The topical application of peppermint oil is generally safe, although it is necessary to dilute with a carrier oil like almond or jojoba oil. It is advised that some people may experience a burning sensation or allergic rash, especially with sensitive skin. And more importantly, it is never advised to use on young children.
The entire plant contains menthol, an organic compound with local anesthetic properties which provides a wonderful cooling sensation while it naturally alleviates discomfort. It also has antibacterial, antiviral, anti-inflammatory, insecticidal, antispasmodic and carminative properties.
The health benefits of peppermint oil include its ability to treat:
- Massage several drops on your abdomen, place a drop on wrists or inhale to soothe motion sickness or general nausea.
- Drinking mint tea has long been the antidote to an upset stomach.
- Inhaling peppermint oil is also said to help curb the appetite by triggering a sense of fullness.
the common cold and cough. It is often included as an ingredient in natural chest rubs to help with congestion.
- Massage 2-3 drops (along with a carrier oil) onto chest or drop into a humidifier to help clear sinus and lung congestion.
- If your head is feeling stuffed or you can't stop coughing, try a peppermint essential oil steam. Pour boiling water into a metal or glass bowl, and add a few drops of essential oil (eucalyptus and rosemary are good combinations with peppermint). Drape a towel over your head and position your face 10-12 inches above the bowl and breathe in the steam.
- With a small amount of almond or other carrier oil and a drop of peppermint oil, rub on your temples, forehead, over the sinuses (avoid contact with eyes), and on the back of the neck to help soothe headache and pressure. When applied topically, peppermint oil leaves a soothing, cooling sensation that tends to work wonders.
- For stress relief, the combination of peppermint, lavender and geranium essential oils added to a warm bath help relieve stiffness while absorbed through the skin.
- Try aromatherapy by using a candle lamp diffuser with essential oils.
- Rub a drop of oil under the nose to help improve concentration and alertness.
- Diffuse Peppermint oil in the room to improve concentration and accuracy.
- Apply to the back of the neck and shoulders repeatedly to keep energy levels up during the day.
- Inhale before and during a workout to help boost your mood and reduce fatigue.
Sore Muscles: Because peppermint oil has analgesic, anti-inflammatory and anti-spasmodic properties, it not only can relieve pain and inflammation but can also calm the spasms that cause muscle cramps.
- When using Olba's oil as massage oil (a combination of essential oils including peppermint), it has the remarkable ability to stimulate circulation at the surface of the skin by opening up the skin pores and bringing a soothing warm feeling to tired muscles and joints. This oil can also be used as a spot treatment for a quick effect.