Mentha Piperita
Peppermint was the very first essential oil I was introduced to many years ago and like lavender can be used for a wide variety of ailments.
Properties
- analgesic
- antibacterial
- anti-inflammatory
- antiseptic
- antispasmodic
- antiviral
- stimulating
- digestive
- decongestant
- antibiotic
- antifungal
- anti-depressant
- astringent
- calmative
- nervine
- purifying
Application
- Apply topically with a carrier oil
- Inhale (diffuse)
- G.R.A.S - generally regarded as safe for human consumption, use as a dietary supplement, in beverages and cooking.
Cleaning
- purifies and disinfects
- spray along window sills and door to keep unwanted pests from entering
Medicinal Uses
- asthma (apply one drop under the tongue)
- sinus, chest congestion, any respiratory problem or weakness (again apply a drop under the tongue for congestion relief)
- sore throat, laryngitis (I like to use my throat spray for these conditions)
- colds, flu and fever
- allergies and hay fever
- halitosis, breath freshener (one drop under the tongue or make a gargle with water and a drop or two of oil)
- toothaches, mouth sores, gum infection
- cold sores
- concentration, brain, memory, alertness, fatigue, energizing
- digestion: constipation, diarrhea, heartburn, indigestion, gas, IBS
- nausea, morning or motion sickness and vomiting (inhale)
- headache and migraines
- PMS, menstrual irregularity, cramps, aches, etc.
- muscle pain, inflamed joints and tissue, arthritis, rheumatism, carpal tunnel
- varicose veins
- skin fungus, candida, hives, scabies, rashes, itching, irritated skin
- cools the heat of sunburn and brings body temperature down on hot days (mix a drop of two in a spray bottle with water or as the essential oil in my burn soother spray)
- hot flashes (simply inhale or use the spray bottle method)
- depression, uplifts the spirit
- repels spiders and insects, 1 drop on a tick will detach it whole
- heals the pain and itch of spider and insect bites or stings
Caution
Caution should be taken when using this oil while pregnant, peppermint can stimulate the uterus, probably best to use a blend and in small amounts. Also use caution if dealing with high blood pressure. Do not use repeatedly on the same area over and over as this can result in contact sensitization, use a carrier when applying topically. Probably not a good idea to use in the bathtub due to those sensitive areas.
