Use of peppermint dates back to the ancient Egyptians, according to the website Just Aromatherapy. Greeks and Romans scented their bath water with peppermint teas. Today, aromatherapy uses the fragrant essence of the peppermint plant to make an essential oil. Although medical evidence is lacking, peppermint oil seems to aid physical, psychological and spiritual well-being for many.
Extraction
Peppermint oil is extracted from the concentrated oil found in the peppermint plant before the herb flowers. The plant is steamed until it breaks down, much like making tea. The byproduct of this breakdown phase is the plant's fragrant oil, which is cooled, separated from the water and filtered into its pure essential oil.
Application
Peppermint essential oil is too concentrated to apply directly to the skin. To lessen the chance of irritation, peppermint oil is combined with a "carrier" oil or lotion to dilute its strength prior to application. Possible choices include olive oil, grape seed oil or any nut oil that has no scent. Peppermint blends well with various other essential oils, including eucalyptus, rosemary, lemon and marjoram, making it a versatile ingredient for aromatherapy recipes. The University of Maryland Medical Center website indicates that studies have shown headache suffers may need fewer pain medications when using peppermint topically. Peppermint oil also can be used in a steam inhalation for blocked sinuses and cold and flu symptoms.
Massage
Due to its menthol content, peppermint oil has a cooling effect when mixed with massage oil. A massage incorporating peppermint essential oil may help soothe muscle pain or stress. The University of Maryland Medical Center website notes that essential oil is both breathed and absorbed in massage, providing a possible double effect.
Therapeutic Properties
In aromatherapy, peppermint oil often is used to enhance mental alertness. According to "The Complete Book of Essential Oils and Aromatherapy" by Valerie Ann Worwood, claimed health benefits of peppermint oil include its ability to treat respiratory problems, headache and nausea. Like most other essential oils, peppermint may help provide relief from stress, depression and mental exhaustion, although such claims aren't supported yet by scientific evidence.
Cautions
Although nontoxic, the menthol component in peppermint can make it too intense for some individuals. It is also a skin irritant and should be kept away from the eyes. Keep peppermint essential oil away from small children and do not use while pregnant.
References
- "The Illustrated Encyclopedia of Essential Oils", Julia Lawless; 1995
- Aromatherapy.com: What is Aromatherapy?
- Just Aromatherapy: Health Benefits of Peppermint Essential Oil
- "The Complete Book of Essential Oils and Aromatherapy", Valerie Ann Worwood; 1991
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