Peppermint
(Mentha Piperita)
Peppermint is the most important member of the Mint family, cultivated for years as the source of the well-known volatile Peppermint Oil. Among essential oils, Peppermint Oil is by far the most important. The main constituent of Peppermint Oil is Menthol, but it also contains other components like menthyl acetate, isovalerate, menthone, cineol, inactive pinene, limonene.
The Peppermint Oil has a very strong odor and a burning taste. It stimulates both hot and cold reactions in nerve endings. The brain registers these sensations at the same time. The contrast between the two messages makes these sensations much stronger than they really are.
Health Benefits- It helps the digestive system. The menthol soothes the lining of the digestive tract an stimulates the production of bile, which is an essential digestive fluid; it increases stomach acidity; it is an appetite stimulant, so it is highly recommended for indigestion.
- Tip - A hot cup of mint tea is an excellent way to finish a big meal.
A drop of essential oil in a glass of water will settle your stomach, reduce nausea or excess gas.
- It is anti inflammatory, analgesic (pain-reducer) and an excellent breath freshener. It is used for treating gingivitis.
- Tip - Make your own mouthwash by steeping chopped fresh mint leaves in boiling water and keep it in the fridge.
- It is used for treating colds and flu because it raises internal heat and induces perspiration. It is well known as a popular herb for infusions, for relieving nasal, sinus and chest congestion.
- Tip - For headaches: 1-2 drops in carrier oil applied to temples or behind each ear.
- It is a muscle relaxant by controlling muscle aches; when massaged into the skin, it stimulates the nerves that produce a cool, soothing sensation and neutralizes those that signal pain. Due to this calming, sedative effect it is very effective to treat depression. The aroma of the oil when added to bath water will help release tension and dissipate fatigue.
- Tip - Add a few drops to your favorite massage oil blend, you'll feel more energized.
- It is very effective for treating joint pain. The most effective creams for joint pain contain muscle-relaxing and inflammation-reducing essential oils such as Peppermint, Rosemary, Ginger, Chamomile and Lavender. They penetrate into the skin to work directly on the muscle.
- Tip - For arthritis, rheumatism, and other inflammatory conditions, add these oils to a pain-relieving bath; for arthritic hands or feet, try a daily hand or foot bath.
- It refreshes tired and stressed skin with its cooling and invigorating properties; excellent for relaxing foot baths and foot massages.
- Tip - Foot bath: add 2 drops of essential oil to a wide bowl of cool water; relax while you soak your feet.
- Peppermint oil is anti-inflammatory, analgesic and non-irritant; it promotes formation of white cells and acts against microbial germs, while being completely harmless to skin tissue. In other words it heals the skin. That is why Peppermint is used to relieve any kind of skin irritation or itching. It is also the main cosmetic agent for oily skin and Acne; steam treatment with Peppermint is recommended to cleans and decongest the skin; it cools by constricting the capillaries.
- Tip - Facial steam for oily skin: pour 2-3 drops to hot water, cover head with towel for 5 min, avoid contact of steam with eyes.
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