Peppermint Essential Oil

Peppermint (Mentha piperita) has a strong, clean, fresh, minty aroma. One of the oldest and most highly regarded herbs for soothing digestion. It has also been used to freshen breath, relieve colic, gas, headaches, heartburn, and indigestion. It has pain relieving and anti-inflammatory properties as well as antibacterial, anticarcinogenic (anti-cancer), antiseptic, antiviral, and antispasmodic properties.

• Jean Valnet MD studied peppermint’s supportive effect on the liver and respiratory systems.
• Other scientists have also researched peppermint’s role in improving taste and smell when inhaled.
• William N. Dember of the University of Cincinnati studied peppermint’s ability to improve concentration and mental sharpness.
• Alan Hirsch MD studied peppermint’s ability to directly affect the brain’s satiety center, which triggers a sensation of fullness after meals.

This powerful essential oil is often diluted before topical application to decrease any skin sensitivity. Peppermint may also be used to enhance the flavor of food and water. Peppermint has an approximate ORAC of 373,455, making it a great antioxidant as well!

Everyday Uses:

• Add a drop of peppermint essential oil to herbal tea to help aid normal digestion.
• Massage several drops of peppermint essential oil on the abdomen, place a drop on wrists, or inhale to soothe the minor stomach discomfort associated with travel.
• Rub one drop of peppermint essential oil on the temples, forehead, over the sinuses (careful to avoid contact with your eyes), and on the back of the neck to relieve head pressure.
• Place 2 drops of peppermint essential oil on the tongue and rub another drop of oil under the nose to help improve concentration and alertness.
• Apply peppermint essential oil to the back of the neck and shoulders throughout the day to keep energy up.
• Inhale peppermint essential oil, apply topically to your temples or neck, or put a drop on your tongue or in water to jump-start your morning routine.
• Diffuse or inhale peppermint essential oil mid-morning to curb the desire to snack.
• Inhale peppermint essential oil or rub a drop on to your abdomen to soothe minor stomach discomfort.

* Contact you natural health practitioner and be cautious with use during pregnancy, and on children (especially those <6 year of age). Greater dilution may be required for certain individuals.

Source: Youngliving.com