Peppermint is a well-known herb that grows naturally throughout many parts of the world. The mint herb has been used for thousands of years and is a prominent herb in Roman, Egyptian, and Latin history. The botanical name given to peppermint is Mentha Piperita. The peppermint herb is a cross between water mint and spearmint. Peppermint is known for its strong aromatic properties. This herb can also be used to treat numerous medicinal ailments and provide other healing properties as well.
Peppermint essential oil is derived from the whole peppermint herb.The essential oils of peppermint are typically found on the underside of the herb’s leaves. The oils are collected through a process that involves steam distilling the fresh or partially dried plant leaves. The essential oil properties of the herb can be availed in teas, oils, capsules, and as an additive in cosmetics and skincare products. The primary components in peppermint oil are menthol and menthone.
Benefits of peppermint essential oil
Peppermint has been around for thousands of years and is known for its medicinal properties that can significantly reduce the ill-effects attributed to several ailments. Here are some of the most common benefits of peppermint essential oil –
Solution for IBS IBS is short for Irritable Bowel Syndrome, a gastro-intestinal condition that causes stomach pains, diarrhea, and constipation. Conclusive studies have claimed that peppermint oil contains significant properties that can aid in reducing the symptoms associated with IBS. Peppermint, in the right quantities prescribed by the health care practitioner, is known to relax the smooth muscles of the gastrointestinal tract, provide an anti-inflammatory effect, affect the different bacteria that naturally live in the tract, and reduce the sensations of pain in the GI tract.
Prevents Nausea Peppermint oil is known to prevent nausea, especially when it occurs after an operative surgery. Nausea associated with pregnancy can also be alleviated with the help of peppermint essential oil.
Pain-relief Studies have shown that peppermint essential oil is known to help alleviate migraines as well as tension headaches. When applied to the temples and forehead, the essential oil helps to reduce pain as well as light sensitivity and nausea. Peppermint essential oil is also used in massage therapy for reducing muscle and joint pains. The properties in peppermint essential oil are known to help the body relax and de-stress. Peppermint can also be used in the form of a chest rub that provides relief from cold and flu symptoms.
Aromatherapy Aromatherapy research and studies show that peppermint essential oil has a sweet and refreshing scent that is known to uplift the mood and energize the body. Studies show that peppermint oil contains expectorant properties, which helps to clear the nasal pathway and rid the user of any blockages. Inhaling peppermint extract can help in easy breathing and de-congestion of the sinuses. Peppermint oil, when inhaled, is also known to boost circulation, which significantly helps in keeping the mind active, as well as boosting energy and retaining mental focus.
Anti-bacterial Years of research has also found that peppermint is anti-microbial due to which it provides several cleaning and sanitizing properties. The strong scent of this essential oil can also prevent insects from entering the home while keeping all surfaces of the house clean and germ-free.
Appetite-suppressant Peppermint contains stomachic properties that are known to help suppress the appetite. The properties found in peppermint can promote the feeling of fullness and can prevent people from over-indulging.
Uses of peppermint oil
Peppermint essential oil can be diluted or used along with a carrier oil. Peppermint essential oil can be used for a variety of purposes.
Cosmetic use Peppermint essential oil acts as an astringent that helps to reduce the size of pores and tighten the skin. Peppermint gives both cooling and warming sensations that help to significantly reduce redness and other inflammation. Peppermint essential oil, when used with another carrier oil, can be applied on the skin to promote the formation of healthy, new skin. It works as a wonderful remedy for sunburns as well. When used on the scalp, peppermint is known to work against dandruff, leaving your hair and scalp feeling cool and refreshed. Peppermint oil is also used as a fragrance in soaps and other cosmetic products.
Air freshener Peppermint essential oil can be used with the help of a diffuser and kept around the house. The aroma of peppermint oil is energizing and is known to help people relax and remain mindful of their surroundings.
Diluted massage or bath Adding a couple of drops of peppermint oil to bath water can help relive tired feet, and also help alleviate muscle cramps and joint pains. Peppermint oil, when used for massage purposes, can help heal the tissues and muscles and provide relaxation to the user.
Conclusion Peppermint essential oil has mainly aromatic, medicinal, and cosmetic uses. Studies have proven that the use of peppermint in all three of these areas have shown positive effects. The ancient use and benefits of peppermint are treasured by people of different races, all of the world. Given the growing popularity of alternative medicinal routes, peppermint oil will be seeing increased demand in the future as well.
The statements contained herein have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. Neither Sixth Scents nor its products are intended for the purpose of diagnosing, treating, curing, or preventing any disease. If you are pregnant, nursing, taking medication, or have a medical condition, consult your physician before using these products.