Benefits and Uses of Peppermint Essential Oil
You’ll instantly recognize peppermint essential oil thanks to its deeply pungent, cool, and of course, minty scent. Peppermint essential oil is considered part of the “basic starter set” for people who are only starting to grapple with aromatherapy. That’s because peppermint oil carries such a plethora of benefits that it’s impossible not to find a use for it.
How do you use peppermint oil?
Before we look at the many benefits associated with it, it’s important to understand the common uses of this essential oil. Peppermint essential oil can be used either topically (direct application to the skin), or in an aromatherapy diffuser (to be inhaled).
Some people may also apply drops of peppermint essential oil directly into their nose, to eliminate congestion. Though honestly, it’s safer to use a diffuser, as you will reap much of the same effect.
Tip: Peppermint essential oil should not be directly ingested, as this can irritate the digestive tract. Also, if using peppermint oil for the skin, it’s best to mix 2-3 drops with a teaspoon of carrier oil (olive, coconut) before application.
What are the benefits of peppermint oil?
What you use peppermint essential oil is generally up to you, but here are some of its most popular uses.
1. Nausea relief.
Just like peppermint tea is known for soothing digestion, so does peppermint essential oil help relieve nausea and vomiting. Basically, when you inhale the soothing peppermint scent, it rapidly works to relax the muscles of the stomach and the digestive tract. Some studies have shown that people reported less nausea, after inhaling peppermint essential oil, as well as less cramping.
2. Soothing acne.
Another popular use of peppermint oil is as an acne remedy. Thanks to its strong antibacterial properties, peppermint oil effectively targets the bacteria underneath the skin that’s causing breakouts. Not only that, but peppermint is also a powerful astringent, which will significantly dry and reduce the actual blemishes.
3. Hair growth.
Rather impressively, studies have linked peppermint oil solutions (applied topically) to a boost in hair growth, as well as hair thickness. Basically, the idea here is that the peppermint has a stimulating effect on the skin, increasing blood flow, and stimulating the hair follicles.
4. Relieves migraine.
Headaches can make daily activities difficult. Migraines, however, can make them downright impossible. Thankfully, peppermint oil has been shown to have similar effects to lidocaine in relieving migraines, and improving mental clarity. To reap such benefits, one may use peppermint oil in a diffuser, or even apply it directly intranasally. Adding lavender essential oil increases its potency. Try it in a roll-on over temples, under the nose and back of the neck.
5. Fights congestion.
Peppermint has always been a popular remedy against colds, sore throats, and nasal congestion. The best way to achieve this is to add a few drops of peppermint essential oil to a bowl of steaming water, and inhale the minty steam itself.
6. Treats digestive ailments.
For a long time, peppermint oil has been associated with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), which is really an umbrella term for a wide range of symptoms, including diarrhea, constipation, digestive pain, and so on. Studies have shown that IBS patients reported less abdominal pain, and more ease with their bowel movements, when regularly inhaling peppermint essential oil.
7. Relieves itchiness.
Last but not least, peppermint essential oil has been noted to soothe itchy skin. The topical application of a peppermint oil solution not only decreased the intensity of the itch, but also the duration.
Peppermint Essential Oil – Yay or Nay?
Peppermint essential oil has a host of benefits both for your skin, as well as your internal health. Considering the many uses you get out of just one tiny bottle of peppermint essential oil, our suggestion would be to buy now!