WebMed fact:
Peppermint oil is
derived from the peppermint plant -- a cross between water mint and spearmint
-- that thrives in Europe and North America.
Peppermint oil is
commonly used as flavoring in foods and beverages and as a fragrance in soaps
and cosmetics. Peppermint oil also is used for a variety of health conditions
and can be taken orally in dietary supplements or topically as a skin cream or
ointment.
Some evidence suggests
that peppermint oil may help relieve symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome and
indigestion. But despite promising research, there is no clear-cut evidence to
support its use for other health conditions.
When used as directed,
dietary supplements and skin preparations containing peppermint oil are likely
safe for most adults.
Peppermint oil may
cause side effects such as heartburn and it may interact with certain
medications.
Talk to your health care provider before using peppermint oil.
Benefits:
- Cooling
According to Ingrid
Martin in her book "Aromatherapy for Massage Practitioners,"
peppermint oil has a cooling, anesthetic quality because of its high menthol
content. It can make your skin feel chilly or cool when applied during massage.
You can use peppermint oil in a foot bath to soothe tired, aching feet or use
it to treat sunburn and inflammation of the skin. Martin states that due to its
cooling properties, applying a tiny bit of undiluted peppermint oil directly to
your temples when you have a headache can provide instant relief.
- Antispasmodic
Peppermint essential
oil has naturally-occurring antispasmodic properties. It is effective for
treating a wide range of digestive complaints, such as easing irritable bowel
syndrome, cramping or stomach spasms and pain. According to Martin, peppermint
oil has a antispasmodic effect on smooth muscle, so it is also useful at
treating bronchial spasms and coughing. You can also use peppermint oil to
relieve nausea and congestion.
- Stimulant
Peppermint oil is a
natural stimulant that can increase your ability to concentrate during times of
mental fatigue or stress. Inhaling the aroma of peppermint oil can help
alleviate jet lag and boost your energy levels. According to Janice Cox in her
book "Natural Beauty at Home," peppermint oil can give you extra
energy in the morning. You can make an energizing body rinse for use in the
shower by adding two to three drops of peppermint oil and the juice of one
lemon to two cups of sparkling mineral water or seltzer. Apply this mixture to
your body with a sponge for a feeling of energy and invigoration when you take
a shower in the morning. Rinse off and pat your skin dry.
- Mood-Elevating
Studies at the Sense
of Smell Institute confirm that peppermint oil has mood-elevating properties
that make it useful for alleviating symptoms of anxiety and depression. It can
help to boost your mood and relieve feelings of sadness as well as enhance
mental performance and feelings of happiness. Due to these effects, you can use
peppermint oil to ease stress, exhaustion and irritability. Dab a few drops on
your temples to inhale the soothing aroma or burn the oil in an aromatherapy
burner to promote an elevated mood.
Note: I received this product free for review.
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