Peppermint Essential Oil

We love a good dash of mint in our mojito, however, there’s more to this delicious herb than meets the eye. Peppermint essential oil is extracted from the leaves of the mint plant or Mentha piperita, native to Europe and used for medicinal purposes for centuries. 

In ancient Greek and Roman times, peppermint essential oil was used to treat health conditions like respiratory and digestive issues. Its use has continued to the present day in  aromatherapy, skincare, and natural cleaning products. Here are five benefits of peppermint essential oil.

1. Pain Relief 

Peppermint essential oil is widely considered one of the most potent essential oils for combating headaches and migraines. It has proven to be effective in reducing pain from headaches, inflammations and surgery. Further research into peppermint essential oil discovered that it may even be as effective as conventional medication in combating pain. This study found that peppermint oil was just as effective as paracetamol in relieving tension headaches when applied topically to the forehead and temples. 

2. Digestive Aid

Referred to as an antispasmodic, peppermint oil helps relieve stomach cramps, bloating and flatulence by helping the muscle of the bowel wall to relax. Peppermint is commonly used to reduce symptoms of indigestion and irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). One study of 726 patients in 2014 concluded that peppermint oil was a safe and effective short-term treatment of active IBS. Another article found that peppermint oil was effective in treating a range of digestive issues including functional dyspepsia.

3. Respiratory Relief

Peppermint oil is effective in relieving respiratory issues like colds, coughs, and congestion. Some studies suggest that due to its menthol content, peppermint oil helps relieve symptoms of cough and cold when taken orally. Some researchers also claim that peppermint oil is effective in relieving nasal congestion when applied topically to the skin.

4. Stress Relief

Peppermint essential oil is believed to have a calming effect on the mind and body, making it useful for relieving stress and promoting relaxation. According to many strands of research, peppermint oil has positive effects on mood, stress reduction, sleep enhancement, self-confidence and physical and cognitive performance. One study in the Journal of Pain Research also found that peppermint essential oil was effective in reducing anxiety in surgical patients.

5. Skin Care

Peppermint essential oil has been shown to be effective in improving the appearance of the skin. For one, it has astringent properties, making it useful for toning and tightening the skin. A study published in Hindawi found that when applied topically to the skin, peppermint essential oil may improve skin conditions like acne, chicken pox, dermatitis and ringworm.

In aromatherapy, peppermint essential oil is commonly used for its refreshing and invigorating scent. It can be inhaled directly or diffused using a diffuser.

In general, peppermint essential oil should be used in moderation, as it can be irritating to the skin when used undiluted. It is recommended to dilute peppermint essential oil with a carrier oil, such as almond oil or jojoba oil, before applying it to the skin.

To ensure that you are getting a good quality peppermint essential oil, there are a few things to look out for:

• Check the ingredients: Make sure the oil is 100% pure and does not contain any additives or fillers.
• Look for organic certification: Organic essential oils like the ones we use at Este are grown without the use of pesticides and chemicals, making them a safer and more natural option.
• Consider the extraction method: Steam distillation is the most common method for extracting essential oils and is generally considered the best method for preserving the natural properties of the plant.
• Research the brand: Look for a reputable and trustworthy brand with a history of producing high-quality essential oils.

In conclusion, peppermint essential oil is an incredibly versatile and effective natural remedy with a wide range of uses. It has been shown to be effective in pain relief, improving digestion, relieving respiratory issues, reducing stress and anxiety, and skincare. When used properly and in moderation, peppermint essential oil can be a safe and effective addition to your natural healthcare routine. Just be sure to follow the dosage instructions, be aware of potential drug interactions, and look for good quality mint essential oil to get the most out of this powerful natural remedy.