Among the many species of mint, it is the peppermint variety that has gained the status of the most valuable. Its history of medicinal use is truly impressive. In the search for the most effective way to harness the plant’s properties, an essential oil was developed – a concentrated extract with remarkable properties. Natural, safe and highly effective. How (and why) should peppermint oil be used?
Peppermint oil – extraction
The essential oil is extracted by steam distillation from fresh peppermint leaves (Mentha piperitaL.), which belongs to theLamiaceae family. The plant is cultivated worldwide, although in the greatest quantities in Europe, Asia and South America. Peppermint was created by crossing two other varieties – spearmint and water mint – combining the best characteristics of both.
The most important of all
There are over a dozen species, hybrids and cultivated varieties of mint, and that is by no means the end of it – new ones are constantly being developed. One thing remains unchanged – the immense medicinal value of peppermint. Considered the most important of all, it is a natural addition to any home first-aid kit… and beyond.
Peppermint essential oil – properties
Although the main components of peppermint oil are menthol (approx. 50 per cent) and menthone (approx. 20 per cent), the extract contains over 30 other substances. These are responsible for a range of properties that can be utilised in many different ways.
Its high antimicrobial activity (against bacteria, viruses and fungi) is particularly important when cleaning minor wounds and grazes. Peppermint oil accelerates the healing process – it regenerates the epidermis and is generally well tolerated (it is an excellent alternative to lavender and tea tree oils).
When applied topically, peppermint oil has anti-inflammatory and cooling effects, and at higher concentrations it also has analgesic properties. In the pharmaceutical industry, it is an important ingredient in syrups and lozenges with antispasmodic (expectorant) properties.
Studies have shown that peppermint oil also reduces the frequency, duration and severity of nausea, although not to the same extent in everyone.
Its broad spectrum of pharmacological effects is impressive, but the scent is important too, isn’t it?
Peppermint oil – aromatherapy
Peppermint oil has a distinctive scent – it is sharp and refreshing. It relieves headaches, boosts energy, reduces tension and anxiety, and helps you concentrate.
Research has shown that the scent of peppermint improves memory, speeds up information processing and increases alertness – it enhances cognitive function and acts as a stimulant.
Peppermint essential oil for massage
When used externally, peppermint essential oil is sure to bring a range of benefits – for both the body and the senses.
When used during a massage, it improves superficial and peri-articular circulation, thereby accelerating the reduction of swelling and skin oedema. It helps to relieve muscle pain and promotes relaxation. However, it is important to remember that the oil must be properly diluted:
- 3–5 drops of peppermint essential oil per 1 tablespoon of carrier oil
...and for baths
Peppermint oil is the perfect addition to a bath. It has a invigorating and stimulating effect, is excellent for the skin and relieves itching (of various causes). It is also a remedy for rheumatic pain. How can you create a spa experience in your own bathroom?
Add a little peppermint essential oil to a bath of warm water. It’s best to start with 3 drops – the aroma is really intense. If necessary, you can increase the dose (up to a maximum of 8 drops). Add some pleasant music and lavender-scented candles, and you’re all set.
Peppermint essential oil for inhalation
Peppermint essential oil purifies the air, supports respiratory function and relieves congestion of the mucous membranes. This means it is indispensable during respiratory tract infections (particularly those accompanied by a cough) and asthma. Simply add 2–4 drops (depending on your preference) to an aromatherapy burner, diffuser or humidifier.
Peppermint essential oil for special tasks
For persistent breathing difficulties, which are affecting an increasing number of people, you can try this reliable, refreshing blend:
- 4 drops of peppermint essential oil + 3 drops of lavender + 2 drops of eucalyptus + 2 drops of orange
And there are many more possible combinations. What can you combine peppermint oil with?
- eucalyptus
- rosemary
- lemon
- grapefruit
- lavender
- geranium
- orange
- frankincense
- oregano
Peppermint oil and the power of synergy
It’s worth combining essential oils. Why? To create an interesting scent or to harness the synergy of the oils – that is, the benefits that come from the right combination. What does this mean?
- air purification: 3 drops of peppermint essential oil + 2 drops of grapefruit + 3 drops of sandalwood
- stress relief: 3 drops of peppermint essential oil + 3 drops of lemongrass essential oil + 2 drops of orange + 1 drop of frankincense
- for breathing difficulties: 3 drops of peppermint essential oil + 2 drops of lavender + 2 drops of lemon
- to improve concentration: 3 drops of peppermint essential oil + 2 drops of mandarin + 2 drops of rosemary
Peppermint oil in cosmetics
It may seem that peppermint oil isn’t widely used in the cosmetics industry. That’s a mistake. It’s one of the key ingredients in many oral hygiene products, as well as in perfumes, eau de toilette and skincare products.
Peppermint oil has a very positive effect on the skin of the face. It tones, refreshes, tightens pores, brightens the complexion and soothes blemishes. Although anyone can use it, it is particularly recommended for oily, combination and acne-prone skin.
Peppermint oil will also help combat dandruff – simply add 2–3 drops to a bottle of shampoo and use regularly.
A beauty must-have, isn’t it?
Peppermint oil for insects… and more
Peppermint oil is an excellent – and, above all, natural – repellent. It keeps insects at bay, not only outdoors but also those found in every home. To keep your furniture, such as beds, sofas and armchairs (where invisible microbes accumulate), clean, it’s worth using a cleaning spray. How do you make it?
In a spray bottle, mix the following two ingredients thoroughly:
- 20 drops of peppermint essential oil + 250 ml of water
Furniture should be sprayed regularly – at least once a week.
Peppermint oil for spiders
Spiders are the bane of many flats and houses. Although they are harmless, they are not particularly popular. This is where peppermint oil comes in handy. The scent, which people love, effectively repels most arachnids. Simply place cotton wool balls soaked in the essential oil in the places where they appear most often – the effect will be immediate.
Interestingly, this method also works on ants.
Peppermint oil for ticks
Peppermint oil is highly effective at repelling ticks. It is just as effective as synthetic products, yet it is natural, safe and non-toxic. Preparing the mixture is incredibly simple:
- 10–12 drops of peppermint essential oil + 2 tablespoons of carrier oil (e.g. vegetable oil)
You can (though of course you don’t have to) enrich the repellent with lavender or geranium oil.
It’s worth mentioning that...
One of the earliest uses of mint was…to freshen up rooms – the herb was scattered across the floor, and stepping on it – whether by accident or not – released a wonderful scent. You can still make use of this today, though (fortunately) in a slightly different way. It’s worth harnessing the power of the aroma whilst cleaning, by creating a disinfectant spray based on natural essential oil:
- 20 drops of peppermint essential oil + 100 ml vinegar + 150 ml water
Many people forget that storage conditions are crucial for the quality of the oil – that is, its composition and properties. To ensure the extract retains its effectiveness, it should be kept in a cool place, away from direct sunlight.
...there are also certain contraindications
Peppermint oil, particularly in high doses, can be irritating and harmful as it contains a compound called pulegone, although the amounts involved are generally trace quantities – ranging from 0.5 per cent to 4.6 per cent.
The use of peppermint oil requires consultation with a doctor during long-term pharmacological treatment – the extract inhibits the enzymes responsible for the breakdown of many medicines, potentially altering their effects.
Peppermint oil should not be used by pregnant women, during breastfeeding, or on young children and infants.
The use of peppermint oil can bring significant benefits – this has been known for a long time, although it seems the world had forgotten this for a while. A return to natural solutions is an increasingly popular choice, and it is certainly not just a passing fad. As research shows, plant extracts are highly effective and have an exceptionally wide range of benefits. Peppermint oil is excellent proof of the notion that the best things come from nature.
“Characteristics and functional properties of mint raw materials”– A. Kiełtyka-Dadasiewicz, A. Jabłońska-Trypuć, Z. Taraseviciene, A. Kubat-Sikorska, Garden of Plants and Cosmetic Raw Materials, Centre for Innovation, Research and Science, Department of Plant Production Technology and Commodity Science, University of Life Sciences in Lublin, Department of Sanitary Biology and Biotechnology, Białystok University of Technology, Institute of Agricultural and Food Science, Aleksandras Stulginskis University in Kaunas, Lithuania
“Peppermint (Mentha piperita L.) – a medicinal plant with diverse biological and therapeutic properties”- I. Mystkowska, K. Zarzecka, A. Baranowska, M. Gugala, Department of Technical Sciences, Pope John Paul II State University of Applied Sciences in Biała Podlaska, Department of Agrotechnology, University of Natural Sciences and Humanities in Siedlce
"The effect of peppermint oil on anaerobic bacteria"- A. Kusiak, A. Kędzia, B. Molęda-Ciszewska, A. W. Kędzia, K. Maciejewska, A. Włodarkiewicz, E. Kwapisz, Department and Unit of Periodontology and Oral Mucosal Diseases, Ganski Medical University, Unit of Oral Microbiology, Department of Microbiology, Gdańsk Medical University; Department of Paediatric Nursing, Poznań Medical University; Department and Clinic of Maxillofacial and Dental Surgery, Gdańsk Medical University
“Peppermint oil”– B. Kingler, S. Chaudhary, Albert Einstein College of Medicine of Yeshiva University, New York, Beth Israel Continuum Centre for Health and Healing, New York
"Mentha piperita (Peppermint)"– E. Herro, S. E. Jacob, Division of Paediatric and Adolescent Dermatology, University of California, San Diego–Rady Children’s Hospital, California
"Essential Oils, Part V: Peppermint Oil, Lavender Oil and Lemongrass Oil"– A. de Groot, E. Schmidt, the scientific journal *Dermatitis*, ACDS
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