The Uses Of Peppermint Essential Oils

Peppermint essential oil is a versatile oil that has many beneficial properties for the mind and body. The peppermint plant is actually a cross between the water mint and spearmint plants, and has an uplifting, invigorating aroma. In her book "Natural Beauty at Home," Janice Cox points out that peppermint oil is a natural energizer that is useful in treating a wide range of physical and mental ailments.

Soothes Irritated Skin

Peppermint essential oil can be beneficial to irritated skin or skin that is prone to rashes. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, peppermint is commonly used to treat poison ivy, hives and poison oak. Peppermint oil can also soothe an irritated, dry or flaky scalp. When mixed with a carrier oil, such as almond, grapeseed or sunflower oil, and applied directly to the skin, peppermint can calm and soothe irritation.

Indigestion

Peppermint is a common ingredient in most over-the-counter remedies for indigestion. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, peppermint used for this purpose works by calming the muscles of the stomach and improving the flow of bile, which helps food to move through the stomach more quickly. Indigestion relief is possible if you drink a mixture of a few drops of peppermint oil in a glass of water.

Expectorant

Anyone who has suffered from nasal congestion, a cold or the flu is most likely familiar with the scent of peppermint, as it is a natural expectorant commonly used in many over-the-counter cold and flu remedies. Peppermint's main agent, menthol, works to break up mucous and coughs with phlegm. It is also useful for soothing sore throats and dry coughs.

Energy Boost

Peppermint has natural energizing properties, and can used in aromatherapy to provide an invigorating energy boost. Simply add a few drops of peppermint oil to an oil diffuser, or make your own homemade massage oil by adding a few drops to a carrier oil such as almond or grapeseed oil. In her book, Janice Cox provides a recipe for an energizing body rinse, which can help cure jet lag and give you extra energy in the morning. Add two to three drops of peppermint oil and the juice of one lemon to two cups of sparkling mineral water or seltzer. Sponge this mixture over your body after you have washed, then rinse and pat the skin dry.