Peppermint in another popular essential oil on the market. It is used in many products such as toothpaste, candy, gum, and soaps. Peppermint has a refreshing minty scent and gives off a tingling sensation when applied topically. It contains menthol which gives peppermint its refreshing qualities. Peppermint is typically found in North America and Europe. The United States produces over 70% of the world’s peppermint. Several states, including Oregon, Washington, Idaho, Indiana, California, and Wisconsin product peppermint plants. The essential oil is produced from steam distillation of the plants leaves. Menthol alcohol is what is left behind from the distillation extraction method.
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What is Peppermint Used For?
Peppermint essential oil is used for many health ailments including relief from pain and itching. It can stop or reduce vomiting and helps eliminate mucus from the body. It can reduce muscle spasms, flatulence, and boost blood circulation. This oil can also ease nausea and relieve indigestion.
This essential oil has many therapeutic properties such as an anti-bacterial, anti-fungal, anti-inflammatory, and anti-microbial to name a few. It can be beneficial for the following issues: anxiety, stress, arthritis, digestive issues, and swollen lymph nodes. It can benefit the respiratory system and can help with athlete’s foot and other fungal infections.
Peppermint essential oil is also good use for pest deterrent. It works well on insects and rodents.
Personal Uses
I primarily use peppermint essential oil in my hair tonic to promote hair growth and lessen thinning of my hair. Occasionally I will diffuse it if I have a headache.
Keep Reading: How to Grow Your Hair Naturally with Essential Oils
Peppermint Essential Oil Safety Precautions
Due to the high menthol content peppermint should not be ingested as in high does it can be toxic. Always consult your doctor or certified health professional before ingesting peppermint or any other essential oil. Also due to the menthol content of peppermint it should not be used around infants or children younger than 6. The menthol can cause severe respiratory issues in infants and children. Be sure to check your essential oil blends for the possibility of peppermint being an ingredient.
Peppermint is safe for ages six and up both for inhaling and topically. Be sure to follow proper dilution guidelines. This essential oil is also safe for pregnant and breastfeeding women; however, it may decrease milk supply for some women. It is safe for dogs but not cats. Please consult your doctor if you are taking any medications as some medication can interact with peppermint essential oil (or any essential oil).
Quick Facts
Common Name: Peppermint
Botanical Name: Mentha x piperita L
Extraction Method: Steam Distillation
Plant Source: Leaf
Key Constituents: Menthol, Menthone, Menthyl acetate
Maximum dilution: 5.4%
Scent: Minty, sweet, fresh
Blends Well With: Bergamot, cedarwood, geranium, most citrus, pine, vanilla, ylang ylang
This information is just for educational and informational purposes. It is not intended to treat, cure, diagnose or prevent any medical condition. Please consult your health professional if you are taking any medications or have any health issues.
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Do you need Peppermint essential oil? Try shopping at Plant Therapy. They offer 100% pure, quality essential oils. I use and recommend Plant Therapy. Click on the logo below to be taken to Plant Therapy’s website. This is an affiliated link.
Sources
Tisserand, R and Young, (2014) Essential Oil Safety, 2ed. Churchill Livingstone
Purchon, N and Cantele (2014) The Complete Aromatherapy and Essential Oils Handbook for Everyday Wellness. Robert Rose, Inc.