Peppermint oil is one of the most versatile essential oils out there. It can be used aromatically, topically and internally to address a number of health concerns, from muscles aches and seasonal allergy symptoms, to low energy and digestive complaints. It’s also commonly used to boost energy levels and improve both skin and hair health.
According to a review conducted by the USDA Human Nutrition Research Center on Aging at Tufts University, peppermint has significant antimicrobial and antiviral activities. It also works as a strong antioxidant, displays anti-tumor actions in lab studies, shows anti-allergenic potential and pain-killing effects, helps to relax the gastrointestinal tract and may be chemopreventive.
What Is Peppermint Oil?
Peppermint is a hybrid species of spearmint and water mint (Mentha aquatica). The essential oils are gathered by CO2 or cold extraction of the fresh aerial parts of the flowering plant. The most active ingredients include menthol (50–60 percent) and menthone (10–30 percent).
Not only is peppermint oil one of the oldest European herbs used for medicinal purposes, other historical accounts date its use to ancient Japanese and Chinese folk medicine. It’s also mentioned in Greek mythology when the nymph Mentha (or Minthe) was transformed into a sweet-smelling herb by Pluto, who had fallen in love with her and wanted people to appreciate her for years to come.
The many peppermint oil uses have been documented back to 1,000 B.C. and have been found in several Egyptian pyramids.
Today, peppermint oil is recommended for its anti-nausea benefits and soothing effects on the gastric lining and colon. It’s also valued for its cooling effects and helps to relieve sore muscles when used topically. In addition to this, peppermint essential oil displays antimicrobial properties, which is why it can be used to fight infections and even freshen your breath.
Peppermint Oil Benefits
- Relieve Muscle and Joint Pain
- Sinus Care and other Respiratory Benefits
- Seasonal Allergy Relief
- Increase Energy and Improve Exercise Performance
- Alleviate Headaches
- Improve IBS Symptoms
- Freshen Breath and Support Oral Health
- Promote Hair Growth and Reduce Dandruff
- Relieve Itchiness
- Repel Bugs Naturally
- Reduce Nausea
- Improve Colic Symptoms
- Boost Skin Health
- Sunburn Protection and Relief
- Potential Anti-Cancer Agent