The middle-note scent of peppermint is minty, sharp, and intense with an odor intensity of a full five out of five. Blending companions include resins, citrus, rosemary, and lavender. Physically, peppermint oil is used to as an analgesic, an anti-inf...
* Please Note: This information is based partly on Traditional Medicine which uses natural materials to support health. This information has not been evaluated or approved by the FDA. These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). These products are intended to support general well being and are not intended to treat, diagnose, mitigate, prevent, or cure any condition or disease. If conditions persist, please seek advice from your medical doctor.
Description
The middle-note scent of peppermint is minty, sharp, and intense with an odor intensity of a full five out of five. Blending companions include resins, citrus, rosemary, and lavender. Physically, peppermint oil is used to as an analgesic, an anti-inflammatory, and a respiratory and digestive tonic; it also can relieve headaches. In terms of emotional well-being, it can clear the mind of fatigue, promote sharp communication, enhance concentration, and develop emotional tolerance. The name Menthe comes from the Latin mente, meaning 'thought'. Remains of this medicinal herb were found in an Egyptian tomb dating from 1000 B.C. It is said to be an ingredient of the ancient incense kyphi. Mint can have both heating and cooling effects.
Peppermint (Mentha piperita)
Plant Family
Lamiaceae (Labiatae).
Description and Distribution
A perennial herb growing up to 3 feet (1 m) and spreading prolifically by rhizomes. The dark green leaves and hairy stems contain the oil-secreting glands. Peppermint is thought to be a hybrid between water mint (M. ciquatica) and spearmint (M. spicata). The plant is native to the Mediterranean and Western Asia, but has naturalised throughout Europe and America. Most of the world's supply of peppermint oil is produced in the USA.
Extraction Method
Steam distillation of the flowering tops.
Nature of the Oil
A pale yellow liquid. The aroma is fresh, piercing and minty. Its odour effect is awakening, cooling and head-clearing.
Bruises, sprains and strains, swellings, ringworm, scabies, toothache, neuralgia, muscular aches and pains, respiratory disorders, halitosis, colic, indigestion, irritable bowel syndrome (oil taken internally in the form of peppermint capsules - dosage according to manufacturer's instructions), flatulence, mouth ulcers, mouth thrush, nausea, feverish conditions, colds and flu, fainting, headache, mental fatigue, migraine.
Blends Well With
Clary sage, eucalyptus, geranium, lavender, lemon, rosemary. The oil is highly odoriferous, so use sparingly.
Preparation and Dosage
For external use of the oil, look for 5-20 percent essential oil in creams and ointments, 1-5 percent in nasal ointments.
Used as a muscle rub for sports injuries or around arthritic joints, peppermint (menthol) extract or essential oil can help ease pain and stimulate the circulation.
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Directions
All pure essential oils should be used with care. Do not apply directly into skin. A 2% dilution of essential oils to a base of carrier oil or lotion is recommended for all skincare and massage preparations.
Cautions
Topical applications can induce a hypersensitivity rash in some. If in doubt apply a small patch test before using peppermint or menthol extracts over a larger area.
Use in the lowest concentrations as it may irritate sensitive skin. Since the oil promotes menstruation, it is best avoided during the first trimester of pregnancy.
Additional Information
Essential Oils by RedSafari.com are 100% Pure Natural Essences derived from the highest quality fruits, flowers, leaves, spices, herbs and roots. Our essential oil distillers and growers are located around the world, operating ethically, organically and chemical-free.
RedSafari.com Essential Oils Are Not Tested On Animals.
These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Products are intended to support general well being and are not intended to treat, diagnose, mitigate, prevent, or cure any condition or disease. If conditions persist, please seek advice from your medical doctor. The essence of the current American rule on Traditional Uses is, as stated by FTC, "Claims based on historical or traditional use should be substantiated by confirming scientific evidence, or should be presented in such a way that consumers understand that the sole basis for the claim is a history of use of the product for a particular purpose."
