Plants are fundamental to human life. As basic as it is, they provide the oxygen you breathe (obviously!). However, you might not have yet thoroughly enjoyed their benefits to the fullest.
They have numerous applications, especially those of industrial activities. Essential oils are one way to make use of these plants for a variety of purposes. Each plant provides its corresponding advantages in the field of oil production. In this case, peppermint oil exhibits potential benefits for consumption.
Are you curious about how? Then, continue reading to learn more!
History of Peppermint Essential Oil
Peppermint, scientifically known as Mentha piperita, is of Mediterranean origin and characterized by its conical-shaped serrated leaves and flowers. Its color ranges from light pink to mauve grown in the USA, Italy, Great Britain, and Japan.
It is a perennial herb in the mint family of plants known for its fresh and sharp aroma comparable to menthol. Belonging to the mint family are spearmint, water mint, and forest mint. In 1753, Carl Linneaus described peppermint as a hybrid of watermint and spearmint.
Including menthol, peppermint oil contains up to 40 different compounds and is one of the most versatile oils. Alongside methanol is another constituent, methone, from which both are helpful antimicrobial and pain relief.
How to make peppermint essential oil?
Peppermint essential oil undergoes steam distillation from crisp available in pure peppermint oil, peppermint extracts, and enteric-coated capsules. According to the Nature in Bottle article, increased menthol content produces the best quality peppermint products.
Besides being germicidal, these essential oils are also popular for their therapeutic properties. However, there is ongoing research for further medicinal uses, peppermint essential oil aids in holistic medicine.
Medicinal Uses of Peppermint Essential Oil
Peppermint essential oils have long been incorporated with aromatherapy. They are instant energy boosters, reducing feelings of tension and irritation while enhancing mental capabilities due to their minty refreshing smell.
When absorbed by the skin or inhaled, menthol, peppermint’s main constituent, causes an immediate physical response. It is responsible for that cool sensation counteracted by the body, thus, giving off a warm effect. Due to being a cooling agent, menthol is a known ingredient in most sugars and beverages.
Other than its mental therapies, there are also those backed with scientific research for peppermint essential oil remedies. These include irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), GI conditions, nausea, including other potential health benefits acting as antiviral and antibacterial.
Congestion and Migraine
It also helps promote congestion relief and easy breathing due to its expectorant properties. Additionally, peppermint oil alleviates pain from tension and migraine headaches for quick relief. In a 2019 study, the headache intensity of patients decreased by at least 40%, improving their symptoms a lot.
Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)
This irritable bowel syndrome is a long-term gastrointestinal condition categorized into abdominal pain, diarrhea, and constipation symptoms. Peppermint essential oil is an anti-inflammatory agent that relaxes GI tract smooth muscles and decreases pain sensation.
GI Conditions
One example of this condition is functional dyspepsia, which includes bloating, indigestion, and stomach pain. The use of peppermint essential oil helps relieve associated symptoms reducing duration and frequency.
Nausea
Nausea is one of the most common symptoms of various conditions, including severe ones such as cancer. According to Erturk & Tasci, 80 cancer patients experienced less intense and less frequent nausea with peppermint oil. After chemotherapy, add a drop of peppermint oil to the philtrum at least thrice daily for five days for better results.
Peppermint Commercial Products
Other than aromatherapy, peppermint essential oil applications include cosmetic and beauty essentials and soapmaking. Here are the following products that give light on the effectiveness of peppermint essential oil:
Acne
Due to its naturally soothing effect, peppermint essential oil calms acne and irritation. In addition, this oil has antiseptic and antibacterial properties reducing acne that houses excess oil and bacteria buildup. According to Dr. Zeichner, peppermint essential oil can aid other traditional acne treatments and not be used as a sole product. Some examples of this popular products are Fiora Natural and Anveya.
Skin
People use various combinations of products for the skin, such as body washes and lotions. Peppermint essential oil helps relieve sensitive skin, such as those sunburns and itchy skin.
Known for soapmaking and beauty industries in general, the properties of peppermint essential oil are good for treating several skin conditions. It includes dermatitis and eczema. For blemish concerns, mix a drop of peppermint oil with either grapeseed or jojoba oil for moisturizing skin.
Example of this notable products are Renpure Original Tea Tree and Mint Body Wash and Avalon Organics Hand & Body Lotion.
Hair
The peppermint essential oil also helps with itching by removing dandruff due to its antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties. In addition, it promotes hair strength and growth as this oil stimulates hair follicles.
According to Brown, do not directly apply the oil to the hair to avoid intense scalp reactions. Instead, add a few drops of the oil onto the shampoo or explore combinations like peppermint oil mixed with hemp oil. Song this reputable products are Gya Labs Pure Peppermint Oil and Malin + Goetz Peppermint Shampoo.
To add sweeter and more sophisticated treat to your hair, you may also add Egyptian musk essential oil on your shampoo or conditioner. If you have been asking on how to make your hair smell good follow more on our blog.
Nails
As a natural antifungal, peppermint essential oil helps clean nails and prevent them from acquiring fungal infections such as onychomycosis. In one study, at least 28% eliminated the infection and a partial clearance for 56% of the population.
Peppermint essential oil helps keep your nails healthy and smell good. Combine two drops of the essential oil with 2 ounces of castor oil, and then dip your nails. Let the mixture absorb into your nails before rinsing.
Products like Bargz Oil Peppermint Essential Oil and Handcraft Blends Peppermint Essential Oil are some of the popular ones in the market.
Precautions
According to Foster, enteric-coated peppermint oil is safe for human consumption. However, most healthcare professionals do not suggest the ingestion of essential oils.
Some of these oils, specifically those with high content of pure essential oils, may contain toxic substances. The possible effects of the ingestion of highly concentrated essential oils include but are not limited to heartburn, nausea, and vomiting. For food purposes, opt for a peppermint extract if you’re adding peppermint oil.
Always dilute the peppermint essential oils as they are highly concentrated with a carrier oil to prevent any reaction. Conduct a small patch test before using. Use the manufacturer’s guidelines when incorporating the oil in diffusers for the proper oil-to-water ratio.
Safety Use
Aromatherapy of peppermint essential oil or essential oils can be toxic to specific populations. The constituent menthol causes serious effects for children, pregnant women and pets. Avoid skin absorption or inhalation of this essential oil. Take note of the safety of the following:
Conclusion
Essential oils are helpful in many ways, especially in the health aspect. For example, aromatherapy in essential oils such as peppermint oil plays a massive part in holistic healing treatments, from controlling emotions to treating minor to severe conditions. It also allows you to maintain a healthy physical appearance and state.
Peppermint essential oil introduces numerous applications; however, you must consider certain precautions. Now that you have learned the uses of peppermint essential oil, check out our tips and follow our page for more!
