Aromatherapy Oils

Aromatherapy Recipes

Peppermint Essential Oil

Peppermint Essential Oil

Mentha piperita


Properties:
Peppermint essential oil has a fresh, sharp, menthol fragranc. It is clear to pale yellow in colour and has a  watery viscosity.

Origin:
It originated in USA.

Extraction Method:
Peppermint oil is extracted from its plant by the process of steam distillation.

Chemical composition:
Menthol, menthone, 1,8-cineole, methyl acetate, methofuran, isomenthone, limonene, b-pinene, a-pinene, germacrene-d, trans-sabinene hydrate and pulegone.

Therapeutic properties:
Analgesic, anesthetic, antiseptic, antigalactagogue, antiphlogistic, antispasmodic, astringent, carminative, cephalic, cholagogue, cordial, decongestant, emmenagogue, expectorant, febrifuge, hepatic, nervine, stimulant, stomachic, sudorific, vasoconstrictor and vermifuge.

Uses:

Peppermint essential oil helps in :
  1. mental fatigue and depression
  2. stimulating mental agility and improving concentration
  3. shock
  4. headache
  5. migraine
  6. nervous stress
  7. vertigo and faintness
  8. dry coughs
  9. sinus congestion
  10. asthma
  11. bronchitis
  12. pneumonia
  13. tuberculosis
  14. cholera
  15. stimulates the gall bladder and the secretion of bile
  16. colic
  17. cramps
  18. dyspepsia
  19. spastic colon
  20. flatulence
  21. nausea
  22. rheumatism
  23. neuralgia
  24. muscular pains and painful periods.
  25. skin irritation
  26. dermatitis
  27. acne
  28. ringworm
  29. scabies
  30. pruritus

Precautions:

  • Peppermint oil is non-toxic and non-irritant in low dilutions, but may cause sensitization due to the menthol content.
  • It can cause irritation to the skin and mucus membranes.
  • It should be kept away from the eyes. 
  • It should be avoided during pregnancy and should not be used on children under seven years of age.

Blends well with:

Eucalyptus, Lavender, Marjoram and all citrus oils.