Peppermint is an herb that is a cross between spearmint and water mint, two herbs that are grown naturally in North America and throughout Europe. Peppermint oil is extracted from the leaves of the plant. In addition to using peppermint as a flavoring, many people use peppermint oil as a treatment for a number of physical maladies. The oil is used in teas, capsules or liquid forms, or mixed with a carrier oil and applied to the skin.
Soothes the Stomach
Researchers at the National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine say peppermint oil can be effective for treating symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome. Bloating, gas, cramping and gastrointestinal discomfort can be soothed when peppermint oil is taken as a tea or in small doses in capsules or other liquids. When combined with certain oils, such as caraway, peppermint can relieve indigestion. Peppermint improves the flow of bile that helps the body to digest fats more effectively, decreasing the pain from indigestion.
Muscle Relaxant
Peppermint oil is a muscle relaxer, according to doctors at Pure Health MD. The oil relaxes the intestines to provide relief from irritable bowel syndrome and can help relax other muscles as well. Used with an oil carrier, peppermint can be rubbed over sore muscles to provide relief. Applied to the temples, peppermint oil can relieve muscle tension that causes headaches. Topical peppermint oil also can be rubbed on the neck to relieve tension headaches, and muscle spasms can be reduced when rubbed with the oil.
Kills Bacteria
Doctors at the University of Maryland Medical Center say peppermint contains antibacterial and antiviral properties. It can be used as a chest rub to help reduce the symptoms of the common cold. When used topically on skin irritations such as poison ivy or hives, it can reduce the pain and itching.
Decongestant
The main ingredient in peppermint is menthol, which can be used as a decongestant, University of Maryland doctors say. When taken in small, liquid doses, menthol works as an expectorant and can break up mucus and reduce the severity of coughs that produce phlegm. Peppermint also helps sooth sore throats and can ease the pain of a dry cough.
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