Part 2: Uses of Peppermint Essential Oil

Did you know that peppermint is one of the most popular essential oils here at Balance Spa? Between its compelling fragrance and medicinal qualities, peppermint oil is a fantastic choice for many different needs. There are many uses of peppermint oil.

Peppermint – “The World’s Oldest Medicine”

The word “peppermint” comes from the Latin word “mente” meaning “thought.” It helps with concentration. According to Greek mythology, Pluto’s wife Persephone crushed the nymph Mentha into dust after learning that Pluto had affections for her. Subsequently, Pluto turned her remains into a peppermint plant so she could be enjoyed and appreciated for many years to come.

The use of peppermint has been found in Egyptian tombs dating as far back as 1000 B.C. It not only has a multitude of proven therapeutic benefits, but it is also helpful around the home for organic pest control.  In the early 1900’s, peppermint oil soaked rags were used to catch rats.

The strong scent of the oil (combined with ferrets to chase the rodents) lured rats into cloth bags to be removed from homes and businesses.  In the construction and plumbing industry, peppermint essential oil is also used to test for the tightness of pipes. It also discloses leaks by its odor.

Research Says

• A study by Alan Hirsch, M.D. found that inhaling peppermint essential oil helps trigger a sense of fullness.
• A Kiel University study found that 10% of the peppermint oil in ethanol had the same result as taking a 1000 mg dose of paracetamol.  Widely used as an analgesic to combat tension headaches, paracetamol also reduces pain and fevers.
• Dr. William N. Dember from the University of Cincinnati, studied the mental accuracy of students when inhaling peppermint oil. The results showed that mental accuracy increased by 28 percent.
• Jean Valnet, M.D. studied peppermint’s healing effects on the liver and respiratory systems.

Helpful Usage Tips

• Inhale the fragrance of peppermint essential oil 5 – 10 times per day to curb the appetite and reduce the impulse to overeat.
• Add a drop of peppermint essential oil to herbal tea to aid in digestion and relieve heartburn.
• Keep peppermint oil in the car on your commute to stay alert. Add a few drops to a napkin, and place in the a/c vent.
• Diffuse peppermint essential oil in your room while studying to improve concentration and accuracy. Inhale peppermint oil while taking a test to improve your recall.
• Placing 15 – 20 drops on your air conditioning filter in the morning is a pleasant way to help you wake up and keep your home smelling fresh.
• Place 5 drops of peppermint essential oil on your shower floor before taking a shower.  This will revive your senses and leave your bathroom enveloped in a refreshing haze of peppermint aroma.

Around the Home

• Peppermint oil has a high concentration of natural pesticides. To deter rats, mice, ants, and cockroaches, place two drops of peppermint essential oil on a cotton ball and place it along the path or point of entry for these pests.
• Remove ticks by applying a drop of peppermint essential oil on a cotton swab and swabbing the tick. Wait for it to unhinge its head and remove from your pet.
• Mix peppermint essential oil with a carrier oil such as almond or olive oil in a foot-bath to relieve sore feet. Keep water agitated while soaking feet.
• To kill aphids, add 4-5 drops of peppermint essential oil to 4 ounces of water and spray your plants.

Therapeutic Properties

The therapeutic properties of peppermint oil are: analgesic, anesthetic, antiseptic, antigalactagogue, antiphlogistic, antispasmodic, astringent, carminative, cephalic, cholagogue, cordial, decongestant, emmenagogue, expectorant, febrifuge, hepatic, nervine, stimulant, stomachic, sudorific, vasoconstrictor, and vermifuge.

Peppermint oil can assist in nervous disorders and is dramatically effective in stimulating the mind and increasing concentration. It can also help treat the respiratory tract, muscular aches and pains, and some skin problems.

Don’t Forget to Blend!

Although most essential oils blend well with one another, peppermint oil blends particularly well with benzoin, eucalyptus, lavender, marjoram, lemon and rosemary.

Be Aware

Peppermint oil is non-toxic and a non-irritant in low dilutions, but sensitization may be a problem due to the menthol content. Keep it well away from the eyes as it can cause irritation to the skin and mucus membranes.  Children under six and pregnant women should not use peppermint essential oil. If you are currently under a doctor’s care or pregnant, consult your physician prior to use. Avoid contact with eyes, mucus membranes, or sensitive skin areas. Do not apply to a fresh wound or burn.

Certain oils can be very toxic to pets. Pine and citrus products and oils are more dangerous. Please consult your vet if you are not sure about applying any essential oil to your pet.

The FDA approves peppermint essential oil for use as a food additive. Do not use peppermint oil near your eyes or open cuts. If irritation does occur, don’t use water as it will worsen the symptoms. Instead, use a pure vegetable oil on location. Do not use peppermint oil on children younger than 6 years of age. Avoid it if you have high blood pressure. Peppermint may cause skin irritation for some. In those cases, dilution is recommended.

Contact Balance Spa for More Information

We take pride in the oils we use at our spa. We hope you enjoy using our peppermint oil. For more information on essential oils, check out our our blog posts on lavender, rosemary, lemon, and eucalyptus, or contact us today to book an appointment.