Peppermint Essential Oil (Mentha Piperita)

There are many different varieties of mint, at a minimum around 20 hybrids in all; the oil used in aromatherapy is peppermint essential oil, which is thought to be a hybrid of water mint and spearmint! Peppermint is about as well known as lavender, it dates back a long time in history, as the Egyptians are thought to have used it in ritual perfumes. There are several mentions by the Greek and Roman mythology. Hippocrates and Galen also wrote of the values of using mint in the diet, and the Romans thought mint to be calming in its properties.

The mint plant has green stem and leaves which are paired, and their flowers range from purple to white, it is grown worldwide, but the best is still grown in England since before the 17th century, but it is actually native to the Mediterranean and western Asia. Mint has been cultivated since ancient times in China and Japan, and is has always been used for complaints such as indigestion, nausea and cramp.

The extraction of peppermint essential oils takes place through the method of steam distillation, from the flowering herb, and the safety advice is as follows; do not use peppermint undiluted, it can create a bad reaction, do not use peppermint at night, as its stimulating properties can keep you awake. Do not use peppermint, if taking homeopathic remedies, it can act as an antidote. It is non-toxic, non-irritant except when concentrated, and possible sensitization due to the menthol in it.

The physical problems peppermint oil can help to treat are very wide ranging, from sunburn to nervous stress, but the main strength of peppermint, is when used to treat digestive problems, such as indigestion, nausea, as it is anti-spasmodic, calming and stomach by nature. Peppermint can also help with the treatment of asthma, colds and flu, headaches and clears the brain, leaving you feeling fresh and bright.

The emotional benefits of Peppermint essential oil, are its regeneration properties, it can help with feelings of self acceptance, and gives the person using it vitality and vibrancy.

Peppermint essential oil is the type of oil, which once utilized is never ever forgotten, it has such a remarkable effect on a person, it is like a wake up drop, people have limitless energy after use, which is probably why peppermint oil is used to aid hikers, we have all had a taste of, or heard of Kendal mint cake, which is just oil and sugar. Toothpastes are full of the stuff, so maybe use a mint free version on an evening if you a susceptible to peppermint, or else you’ll be up all night!

As with all essential oils, peppermint essential oil is the same, do not use if you are not sure of the effects, and always ask the advice of a qualified professional aromatherapy practitioner.

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