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Organic Peppermint Essential Oil
Peppermint (Mentha piperita)
0.33 fl.oz - 10 ml
Peppermint - Refreshing, mentally stimulating,
invigorating
Name: Peppermint, Mentha piperita
Cooling when hot, warming when cold. Uniquely refreshing, cleansing and
stimulating - reawakens and restores completely
Essential information: A must in any essential first aid kit, the
intensely revivifying scent of peppermint awakens the mind and stimulates the
senses, while decongesting, invigorating and fortifying the body. The remedy for
digestive concerns, it is also effective for respiratory ailments, aches and
pains and queasiness.
Description of aroma: A bright, sharp, menthol aroma. This refreshingly
familiar scent has piercingly strong, grassy, mint fragrance.
Properties beneficial to the mind, emotions and spirit: The aromatic
influences of peppermint are purifying and stimulating to the conscious mind,
and refreshing to the spirit. It physically clears the head, leaving you feeling
bright, fresh and ready for mental exertion and clear thinking, and might
prevent memory lapses. Yet if you think too much or have a 'hot head' it will
cool you down.
Warming to that depressed, chilly feeling at the onset of a cold, peppermint is
considered helpful for many nervous and psychological disorders, such as
hysteria, depression, mental fatigue, anger and nervous trembling. Beneficial
for healers to prevent loss of energy, this oil is also reputed to possess
aphrodisiac properties and may help impotence by promoting vitality.
Of interest: The origin of peppermint is something of a mystery, although
it is known to have been in existence since ancient times. Dried peppermint
leaves were found in Egyptian pyramids, dating from around 1000 BC, proving it
was considered valuable at this time. It was also used since antiquity in China
and Japan, and was highly valued for it digestive properties by the Greeks and
Romans, who also used it to flavour wines and sauces. During festivities they
would crown themselves with wreaths made from the leaves. The Hebrews employed
it as an ingredient in perfume, reputedly due to its aphrodisiac qualities.
Menthol is the chemical component responsible for most of the therapeutic action
of peppermint, and yet it is more effective when used as a complete essential
oil rather than alone. Menthol comes from the Greek word menta, meaning mint.
According to Greek mythology, Pluto fell in love with Mentha, a beautiful nymph.
His jealous wife, Persephone, ferociously pounded Mentha into the ground, so
Pluto changed her into a fragrant plant for some compensation.
Peppermint is said to have been 'discovered' in England in 1696, where it has
been cultivated commercially since 1750. It became popular in Western Europe
during the 18th century, and it is now believed that Italian and English plants
produce the best quality of oil - particularly the Mitchum variety - due to the
moderate climate, although nowadays peppermint is cultivated world-wide.
The mint family is related to numerous other oil-producing herbs. There are
about 20 species of mint, and peppermint - a hybrid perennial - is quite
possibly the result of cross-pollination between water mint and spearmint.
Approximately 1,100lbs of plant material yields between 1 1/4oz and 1lb of
essential oil. (Do avoid Mentha pilegium as it is highly toxic.)
According to Robert Tisserand (The Art of Aromatherapy), therapeutically,
peppermint is one of the most important oils. Peppermint oil will kill
staphylococcus bacteria and neutralize tuberculosis bacillus. For generations
peppermint leaves have been used to treat pneumonia by the Menominees, a tribe
of North American Indians.
Commercial uses for peppermint include confectionery, pharmaceuticals and
toiletries, and it is well-known as flavouring for toothpaste, chewing gum,
sauces, jellies, ice-cream, cigarettes and liqueurs, such as Creme de Menthe.
Peppermint tea has long been an effective remedy for indigestion and upset
stomachs. The leaves are also a delicious and beneficial addition to salads,
meat dishes and cold drinks.
Properties beneficial to the physical body: The primary therapeutic value
of peppermint is as a remedy for numerous digestive disorders. These include
I.B.S., indigestion, colic, ulcers and bloating. It may even help if you have
impaired taste and smell. It is also a valuable aid for respiratory concerns
such as colds, flu and sinusitis, and may calm a nervous headache.
An emergency treatment for shock, peppermint can also ease nausea, morning and
travel sickness and faintness - just inhale straight from the bottle. This oil
stimulates the immune system, is an effective painkiller for muscle aches and
pains, and possibly breaks up stones in the gallbladder and kidneys.
Peppermint is a refreshing tonic, softens the skin and strengthens its natural
defenses, possesses antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties and cools by
constricting the capillaries. It is therefore a valuable ally in treating
numerous skin disorders including irritated, congested and oily skin prone to
blackheads and acne. Put a few drops in the final rinse for oily hair.
Scentsual blending suggestions: The aroma of peppermint tends to
dominate, so do use sparingly. It does add an inspiriting aura to your blends,
so try it with eucalyptus, lavender, lemon, pine.
Alternative suggestions for use: Add a few drops of peppermint to a
diffuser in rooms used for meetings and conferences, as it creates a clear,
uncluttered environment. It makes a wonderfully soothing, cooling foot-bath, and
will keep you alert during long driving trips. Insects and vermin dislike the
smell of this oil - a few drops on your pillow should keep the mosquitoes away.
Essential safety precautions: The aroma of peppermint can be
overpowering, so use sparingly and diluted: Always use in less than a 1%
dilution when applying to the skin to avoid irritation, and only 1 drop for
inhaling. Add no more than 3 drops to a bath, especially with sensitive skin.
Too much will leave you shivering. Remember that in the case of peppermint, less
is more.
Avoid peppermint if you have hay fever, as this oil can irritate the mucous
membranes. Do not use in the evening as it can cause wakefulness - unless this
is the desired effect. Prolonged use may disrupt your sleep patterns. Do not use
peppermint with cardiac disease or high blood pressure. Use with caution during
pregnancy, and if breast-feeding, as it can inhibit milk flow. This oil can
cancel out the effects of homeopathic medicines - even if stored close-by!
Do not use essential oils undiluted or take internally without the guidance
of a qualified practitioner. The information contained here is for general
interest and is not intended to replace medical diagnosis or treatment
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