Peppermint Oil

What is it?

Peppermint essential oil is a versatile oil that comes from the flowering parts and leaves of the peppermint plant. It's used in many ways, including as a flavoring, scent, and for health-related purposes. 

Precautions

Talk with your medical practitioner before use if you are pregnant and because it may interact with certain medications. Also given the power of its smell, do not use with small chidlren.

Fun Facts

  • peppermint is a common flavoring add in foods and beverages

  • it’s been used for health related purposes for several thousand years

  • records from ancient Greece, Rome, and Egypt mention that it was used for digestive disorders and other conditions such as flatulence

  • romans particularly liked to use the plant and oil to flavor many of their foods during feasts, including in sauces and wines

  • noblemen braided mint in their crown

  • mint is symbolic for wisdom and virtue

  • the oil and leaves have a cooling effect when used topically for muscle pain, nerve pain, relief from itching, or as a fragrance

  • high oral doses of peppermint oil (500 mg) can cause mucosal irritation and mimic heartburn

Benefits

topical uses

  • alleviate stomach cramps, bloating, and gas

  • relieve nausea and indigestion

  • reduce itchiness, redness, and irritation

  • help with skin conditions like allergic rashes

  • help with headaches, muscle pain, joint pain, and toothaches

aromatic uses

  • help with coughs and colds, reduce stress, and improve mental function

  • improve concentration and alertness. 

  • help boost your mood and reduce fatigue

EndorphinGirl®’s favorite use

For an uplift dab a few drops behind your ears for an energy boost to get over the midday slump. It is also a great throat chakra opener. EndorphinGirl® uses aromatically right before teaching a yoga class.

A final, but important note…

As with any essential oil, use according to your own needs. Because essential oils are extremely potent, it’s important to use them minimally, and to always test on a small area of skin before use. Dilute, dilute, dilute, when necessary! And finally, if you want to ingest the oil, make sure it is food grade quality. If you are using Young Living products, it will always be the 'white label’ bottle that has ‘Vitality’ on it.

Happy oiling!

[disclaimer: this blog is not a substitute for medical advice; consult with a doctor regarding any medical conditions you may have when beginning to use essential oils]

EndorphinGirl®