Peppermint acts in the body as a bronchial dilator and vasodiolator, meaning that it “opens” up the lungs and veins, bringing more air in the lungs and more blood to the brain. Therefore, Peppermint acts as a great mental stimulant and is believed to improve memory. In Japan and Germany, Peppermint and Lemon oils are used in the workplace to increase efficiency and productivity! Therefore, Peppermint is a great remedy for sleepiness, fatigue, mental doldrums, a hangover, and even to keep you alert while driving.
Peppermint was historically used as a diaphoretic meaning, to induce sweating. On a hot summer day, Peppermint instantly cools the body down. Once, while hiking up a mountain in Northern California, the day warmed up to a stubborn 98F. I put 3 drops of Peppermint oil on my scarf, tied around my forehead, 3 drops in my hair, 1 drop under each armpit, and 1 in my water bottle. I was cool, refreshed, and suddenly had more energy for hiking the next 4 miles. This magic mint oil is also extremely beneficial for women in menopause during hot flashes. However, Peppermint can be irritating for some people when applied “neat”, or undiluted to the skin. To check your sensitivity, test 1 drop on the inner forearm.
Used internally, 1 drop of Peppermint oil acts as a strong digestive. Herbalists call herbs that expel gas and aid digestion “carminatives”. If you have ever experienced the “curiously strong” minty taste of an Altoid, it is because there is 1 drop of Peppermint essential oil in each Altoid! If you do not like the intensity of using Peppermint oil, try using a strong tea. Steep three Peppermint teabags in one pint of water for 20 minutes. Then drink it down. You will find the tea is even more beneficial than the oil, but is not as convenient. Add two bags of chamomile tea for an even stronger soothing, calming, and carminative effect.
How does Peppermint work?
- Diaphoretic – induces sweating
- Carminitive – expels gas and aids digestion
- Anti-nausea – reduces nausea
- Analgesic – painkiller
Indications & Treatments
** Use only organic, therapeutic grade, Mentha piperita
Mental Clarity/Fatigue/Stress – add 2 drops Peppermint, 2 drops lemon, 2 drops basil and 2 drops rosemary to a small cloth. Place cloth close to nose and inhale 5 deep breaths.
For a more intense treatment:
1. Place the Mental Clarity blend listed above into your hands.
2. Rub together.
3. Cup hands and cover nose.
4. Breathe in five, deep breaths. After this inhalation, rub the oils on your hands to the back of your neck, on your shoulders and into the scalp. You will feel a wonderful sense of clarity and awakeness.
Caution: Please do not get any oils near the eyes. If Peppermint is rubbed onto the eyes accidentally, put 1 TBSP of olive oil on a paper towel and rub Peppermint with the olive oil. The olive oil will remove the Peppermint oil.
Pain relief – For sore muscles or fresh bruises, use 2 drops of Peppermint on the skin. This may cause a burning sensation, so if you have sensitive skin, add 1 drop of Peppermint to 1/4 cup of pure lotion, and then apply.
Heartburn – Place 1 drop of Peppermint essential oil on hand. Lick the drop of oil. Peppermint neutralizes stomach acid and therefore, works well for hyperacidity, gastric reflux, heartburn, etc.
Nausea – place 3 drops Peppermint and 3 drops Lemon on a cloth. Bring cloth close to the nose and take 5 deep breaths. Repeat as needed.
Headache – Rub 3 drops Peppermint and 3 drops Lavender to the back of the neck. Dilute in 2 Tablespoons of lotion if you are sensitive.
Sinus Congestion –
Application: mix 2 drops Peppermint and 2 drops Eucalyptus Globulus into 10 drops olive oil. Rub mixture into nostrils with Q-tip.
Inhalation: put 2 drops on cloth and inhale 5 deep breaths.
Contraindications
Use Peppermint oil with caution. Use Peppermint in a 5-10% dilution for children under 12. (5-10 drops of Peppermint to 100 drops of lotion or carrier oil). Peppermint can be irritating if used directly on the skin. If you are sensitive, dilute your Peppermint oil before using. Use with caution in bath water. Use Peppermint or any essential oils with caution if you have asthma.
Quick Reference:
How to use peppermint: Inhale by placing on cloth and smelling deeply for mental clarity and energy Put one drop on the hand and lick it for heartburn, over eating, hangover and nausea. For pain relief use directly on effected area For headaches, apply 3 drops Peppermint and 3 drops lavender to back of neck For sinus congestion, inhale and put one drop on roof of mouth.
Active properties:
Menthol, menthone.
