Peppermint oil; as the name suggests is derived from peppermint, an ancient herb and this herb has been used for medicinal purposes since ancient times in China, Japan, and Egypt. It is a hybrid cross between the spearmint and water mint plants.
In modern times, peppermint oil serves as a natural alternative for the treatment of many maladies and is also a common ingredient in common off-the-shelf care products.
Peppermint Oil is a herbal supplement derived from the peppermint plant. This plant is a naturally occurring hybrid cross between the watermint and spearmint plants and originated in Europe and the Middle East.
Historical accounts date its usage in ancient China and Japan for medicinal purposes. Ancient Egyptians used peppermint and dried peppermint leaves have been discovered in pyramids that have been carbon dated back to 1,000 BC.
The Romans grew peppermint for medicinal purposes, especially as a digestive aid in their gardens. It was also grown as a ground cover between stepping stone pathways as they enjoyed the pleasing aroma the plants produced when crushed underfoot.
Peppermint grows mostly in moist areas like river banks, lakesides, and ditches. It is a hybrid plant and reproduces only vegetatively by spreading by its runners. It is widely grown all over the world today.
In 1750, a new hybrid was created and grown in London and is the first recorded cultivation of peppermint. Peppermint was first grown commercially in the United States in 1790 in the state of Massachusetts.
Outside of its native range, the areas where peppermint is invasive and is officially grown for the production of oil are Australia, the Galápagos Islands, New Zealand, and in the Great Lakes region of the United States.
According to a 2014 FAOSTAT report of the United Nations(1), 92,296 tonnes of peppermint were produced worldwide with Morocco accounting for 92% and Argentina 8%.
Today the health benefits of peppermint oil have been widely documented through extensive scientific research. Many medicines and skin care products contain peppermint oil.
It is most commonly available as Peppermint Essential oil which is a concentrated hydrophobic liquid containing volatile (easily evaporated at normal temperatures) chemical compounds from the peppermint plant.
[Also Read: Health Benefits of Coconut Oil]
The name Peppermint originates in ancient Greek mythology in the form of a love triangle. The popular myth suggests that Hades seduced Minthe, a nymph. Enraged with jealousy, Persephone, his wife, turned Minthe into a plant that people would tread on everywhere.
Hades was outraged and imbued the plant with peppermint so that whenever the plant was crushed underneath footfalls, it would release a wonderful aroma and people would forever remember Minthe and recall how beautiful and full of life she had been.
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Peppermint growers in the United States replaced the old method that required boiling the mint in order to release the oils and then skimming the oil off the top of the water by beginning to use steam distilleries in 1864.
The new distillation process not only improved the quality of the extracted oil but also significantly enhanced production. The United States produces approximately 75 percent of the world’s peppermint oil today.
Preparation Time: 10 mins
Steeping Time: 2 weeks
Notes: You may keep repeating the entire process until the desired quantity of oil is obtained or you can take a large quantity in the first go itself. Remember, the ratio of peppermint leaves to oil should not be more than 1:1
The main active components of peppermint essential oil are menthol (50–60 %) and menthone (10–30 %). It also contains many essential minerals and vitamins such as vitamin A and vitamin C, magnesium, potassium, and even fatty acids. Minerals such as calcium and folate found in peppermint increase the nutritional value.
Amount per 100gms | % Daily Value |
Total Fat 0.9 g | 1% |
Saturated fat 0.2 g | 1% |
Polyunsaturated fat 0.5 g | 0% |
Monounsaturated fat 0 g | 0% |
Trans fat 0 g | 0% |
Cholesterol 0 mg | 0% |
Sodium 31 mg | 1% |
Potassium 569 mg | 16% |
Total Carbohydrate 15 g | 5% |
Dietary fiber 8 g | 32% |
Protein 3.8 g | 8% |
Vitamin A | 85% |
Calcium | 24% |
Vitamin D | 0% |
Vitamin B-12 | 0% |
Vitamin C | 53% |
Iron | 28% |
Vitamin B-6 | 5% |
Magnesium | 20% |
In modern times, peppermint oil is recommended for the treatment of many symptoms. It has displayed anti-nausea benefits and soothing effects on the gastric lining and colon. Its cooling effects help relieve sore muscles when used topically and its antimicrobial properties to help fight infection.
Peppermint oil has many health benefits including acting as an insect repellent, treatment of joint pains and headaches, improving circulation, ensuring healthy skin, and promoting general health and stress relief.
Peppermint oil displays the following properties:
Peppermint essential oil is used in a wide variety of places such as culinary, medicinal, and topical applications. The oil has a distinct aroma, a cooling sensation, and a spicy touch to it. It has been used since ancient times in Japan and China for the treatment of stomach issues and nausea.
Today, peppermint oil is an ingredient in many generic products such as candy, chewing gum, cough syrup, liqueur, mouthwash, ointment, shampoo, soap, and toothpaste among others.
Some of its medicinal uses are:
Hair loss is a distressing condition that is associated with a multitude of natural, medical, or nutritional conditions. Male pattern baldness, for example, is increasingly recognized as a physically and psychologically debilitating medical condition.
Peppermint oil is used for the treatment of dryness and itchiness in the scalp and also for hair loss. Its antimicrobial properties make it ideal for scalp ailments and its vasodilator properties help with hair loss by increasing blood circulation to the hair follicles.
An animal study with mice to test(2) for the effectiveness of peppermint oil for hair growth showed that after topical application of peppermint for four weeks, there was a significant increase in dermal thickness, follicle number, and follicle depth.
Peppermint oil is used in many hair products as it can naturally thicken and nourish damaged hair.
You will probably feel a tingling sensation. If it gets too intense for you, wash it off immediately and use a little less peppermint oil in the mixture next time.
Homemade Peppermint Oil ShampooTotal Time: 2 minutes Ingredients:
Directions:
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The active ingredients in peppermint oil have the ability to improve circulation, soothe the gut, and relax tensed muscles. These conditions are a common cause of tension headaches or migraines.
Researchers at the Neurological Clinic at the University of Kiel, Germany, conducted a clinical trial(3) and found that a combination of peppermint oil, eucalyptus oil, and ethanol had a “significant analgesic effect with a reduction in sensitivity to headaches.”
There was also an increased cognitive performance when these oils were applied to the forehead and temple. They also had a muscle-relaxing effect.
[Also Read: Home Remedies for Headache]
Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) affects mostly women and the cause is still unknown. IBS symptoms include diarrhea, constipation, and abdominal cramps. Treatments for IBS include changes in medication, diet, and lifestyle.
Peppermint oil taken in capsule form has been found to be effective in the treatment of IBS. It reduces spasms in the colon, relaxes the muscles of your intestines, and can help to reduce bloating and gassiness.
A randomized clinical trial(4) found a 50% reduction in IBS symptoms with 75 percent of patients who used it. A majority of the patients with IBS who were treated with two peppermint oil capsules twice a day for four weeks showed improved symptoms, including reduced abdominal bleeding, abdominal pain or discomfort, diarrhea, and constipation.
To ease the symptoms of IBS, take 1-2 drops of peppermint oil with a glass of water or in a capsule just before your meal. You can also try applying a few drops to your abdomen, though internal ingestion has been found to be more effective.
[Also Read: Yoga Poses for IBS]
Peppermint oil is a natural expectorant and helps to open airways, clear mucus, and reduce congestion. It is one of the best essential oils for the treatment of symptoms of colds, flu, cough, sinusitis, asthma, bronchitis, and other respiratory conditions.
Inhaling diffused peppermint oil offers relief from scratchy throats and unclogs your sinuses.
Elsevier’s Journal of Ethnopharmacology, published a study(5) that the use of peppermint oil proved to be antispasmodic and anti-inflammatory in nature, and considerably soothed the trachea inflammation and coughing in rats.
Laboratory studies have shown that the active ingredients of peppermint oil have antimicrobial, antiviral, and antioxidant properties and thus could help fight infections in the respiratory tract.
Diffuse and inhale a few drops of peppermint oil or apply 2-3 drops topically to your chest, back, neck and temples.
Homemade Vapour RubTotal Time: 30 minutes Ingredients:
Directions:
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Peppermint essential oil is an extremely effective muscle relaxant and pain killer due to its invigorating and antispasmodic properties. It is very good for the treatment of tension related headaches and in some clinical trials, it outperformed acetaminophen.
Studies(6) have shown that peppermint oil, when applied topically provides pain relief associated with fibromyalgia and myofascial pain syndrome. Research shows that peppermint oil and menthol, among other herbal preparations, work as topical analgesics.
Peppermint oil can be used for pain relief by applying it topically to the affected area. Apply 2-3 drops directly or add a few drops to a warm water bath with Epsom salts. Combining Peppermint and Lavender Oil helps relax your body and reduce muscle pain.
Homemade Muscle RubTotal Time: 30 minutes Ingredients:
Directions:
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(Note: While turmeric is an outstanding anti-inflammatory, be aware that it will cause some temporary skin discoloration).
Peppermint oil has active ingredients that kill bacteria and fungus in your mouth that could lead to cavities or infections. It is a natural breath freshener.
The European Journal of Dentistry published a study(7) that found that peppermint essential oil contained active ingredients that had antimicrobial activities against oral pathogens, including Staphylococcus aureus, Enterococcus fecalis, Escherichia coli, and Candida albicans.
To boost your oral hygiene and freshen your breath, just add peppermint oil to your toothpaste or put a drop under your tongue and have a glass of water.
Homemade Peppermint oil MouthwashTotal Time: 5 minutes Ingredients:
Directions:
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During allergy season, using peppermint oil helps clear the pollen and other muck from your respiratory tract and to relax the muscles in your nasal passages. It is one of the better essential oils for the treatment of allergies due to the expectorant, anti-inflammatory, and invigorating properties of its active ingredients.
The European Journal of Medical Research published a laboratory study(8) that menthol displayed therapeutic efficacy for the treatment of chronic inflammation such as allergic rhinitis, colitis, and bronchial asthma.
Diffuse and inhale a few drops of peppermint oil or apply 2-3 drops topically to your chest, back, neck and temples.
Peppermint essential oil is a natural non-toxic alternative for energy drinks. A few deep whiffs will boost your energy levels throughout the day and increase your memory and alertness.
Adding a few drops of peppermint essential oil to your drinking water can also enhance physical stamina and performance.
Avicenna Journal of Phytomedicine published a study(9) that investigated the effects of ingesting peppermint oil on exercise performance. After ingestion of peppermint oil, significant improvements in all of the tested variables were observed by the researchers.
They also observed increased air exhalation suggesting that peppermint oil may have a positive effect on the bronchial smooth muscles.
To increase your energy level and concentration, drink 1-2 drops of peppermint oil along with a glass of water or alternatively apply 2-3 drops topically to your temples, neck, and back.
Research has shown that menthol, the active ingredient in peppermint oil inhibits itching.
A clinical trial(10) involving randomly selected pregnant women diagnosed with pruritus tested for peppermint’s ability to relieve symptoms. Researchers found a significant improvement in women treated with peppermint oil.
To reduce itching, apply 2-3 drops of peppermint oil topically to the affected area or alternatively add a few drops to a warm water bath. If applying to a sensitive area, combine it with a carrier oil like coconut oil or mix with lavender oil, which also has soothing properties.
Peppermint Oil is a natural insect and bug repellent and is effective against ants, spiders, cockroaches, mosquitoes, mice, and possibly even lice.
The Malaria Journal published a study(11) that found that peppermint essential oil along with lemongrass, geraniol, pine, cedar, thyme, patchouli, and clove were the most effective bug repellents. These oils have shown to repel malaria, filarial and yellow fever vectors for 60–180 minutes.
For protection against bugs, apply a few drops of peppermint oil on your arms every 2-3 hours.
Peppermint oil provides natural relief from sunburn pains and helps to hydrate the affected skin area. Peppermint essential oil has a higher SPF value(12) compared to other essential oils.
[Also Read: How to Treat Sunburn]
For relief from sunburn and to promote natural and healthy skin regeneration, mix 2-3 drops of peppermint oils with coconut oil and apply directly to the affected areas.
Homemade Sunburn Spray RecipeTotal Time: 10 minutes Ingredients:
Directions:
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A study found(13) that inhaling peppermint oil significantly reduced nausea levels post-surgery. The patients were asked to rate how they felt being affected by nausea on a scale of 0 to 5, with 5 being the most nauseous. The average score went from 3.29 before peppermint oil inhalation to 1.44 within two minutes after using peppermint.
To treat nausea, inhale the peppermint oil directly from the bottle or add one drop to a glass of water or rub 1-2 drops behind your ears.
[Also Read: Natural Ways to Treat Nausea ]
Peppermint oil has antiseptic and antimicrobial properties and has calming, softening, toning, and anti-inflammatory effects on the skin when it’s used topically.
Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine published a review(14) peppermint oil is also effective in reducing blackheads, chicken pox, greasy skin, dermatitis, inflammation, itchy skin, ringworm, scabies, and sunburn.
To brighten skin: Include a few drops of peppermint oil into your daily skincare routine. The menthol content provides a cooling effect and reduces blotching and inflammation.
To treat acne and pimples: Mix 2-3 drops of peppermint and lavender essential oils and apply topically to the affected area. The antimicrobial properties inhibit bacterial growth and get rid of pimples quickly.
Peppermint oil can also be used as a facial mask, facial toner, and as a facial scrub as opposed to the store-bought options. It is a natural option for blemish free and healthy skin.
Total Time: 5 minutes
Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine published a study(15) that found that using peppermint oil was equally effective as the drug Simethicone for treating infantile colic, and didn’t have the side effects associated with it.
Before applying peppermint oil on your infant, we strongly recommend that you discuss this treatment plan with your child’s pediatrician.
Apply 1 drop of peppermint oil topically on the stomach area or mix 1 drop with water and feed slowly over time.
Peppermint oil has shown indications of being an anticancer agent in some laboratory studies(16). It was found that menthol, one of the active ingredients in peppermint oil inhibited prostate cancer growth by inducing cell death and regulating cellular processes.
Peppermint oil is a safe and extremely versatile essential oil. It can be used internally in small doses and externally as a topical application. There are many ways to include peppermint oil into your daily routine.
Other Medicinal Uses
To increase your alertness, add 3-5 drops of peppermint oil to an essential oil diffuser and enjoy the benefits as the aroma fills the room.
Peppermint leaves are often used alone in peppermint tea and/or with other herbs in herbal teas. Peppermint is also used for flavoring ice cream, candy, fruit preserves, alcoholic beverages, and chewing gum.
Total Time: 10 minutes
Peppermint oil is an excellent option for a natural foot or body scrub due to its soothing properties.
Total Time: 10 minutes
Massage Oils – The active ingredients in peppermint oil provide a soothing, relaxing effect. This makes it an excellent addition to any standard massage oil.
Yes, peppermint oil does repel mice thanks to its strong aromatic properties but the effects can be short-lived due to the volatility of its compounds.
Peppermint oil is usually safe when ingested in small amounts with food and water or when used aromatically or topically by most adults. Pregnant and breastfeeding women, however, should avoid such products because little is known about their safety during pregnancy and lactation.
Allergic reactions include burning mouth syndrome, diarrhoea with anal burning, flushing, headache, heartburn, mouth ulcers, rashes, respiratory collapse, skin irritation, inflammation of the kidney, difficulty in breathing (paediatrics) from topical use, difficulty while speaking and breathing (paediatrics), and acute renal failure (from overdose).
It has been observed that the side effects of peppermint oil occur mainly due to improper usage. But, as concluded from studies, it is advised that anyone belonging to the categories listed below should avoid the use of peppermint oil to prevent complications:
Before taking peppermint oil, discuss the risks and benefits with your healthcare provider. Some supplements can interact with medicine. Interactions can be harmful or make medications not work as they should.
Be cautious about combining peppermint oil with certain drugs because it may inhibit the body’s ability to metabolize the drugs and increase the risk of side effects. There are a few prescription medications and over-the-counter medications that may interact adversely with peppermint oil.
For example, some enteric-coated peppermint oil supplements may cause rapid dissolving, leading to heartburn, nausea, and rapid absorption of some medications.
Peppermint oil can also reduce the absorption of iron in your body if taken along with an iron supplement, so it is best to have a 2-3 hour gap between taking iron supplements and peppermint oil.
It is also important to note that there are no standards for the production of peppermint oil and they may contain harmful metals or chemicals as impurities from the extraction process.
Peppermint Oil is a wonderful, natural alternative for treating many symptoms and ailments thanks to the cooling, invigorating, expectorant, antimicrobial, antispasmodic, energy boosting, and analgesic properties of its active ingredients.
It is extremely versatile and can be either be ingested or applied topically depending on your malady. But, it is important to exercise caution while using peppermint oil as you could be prone to side effects. Be prudent and use as directed to safely enjoy the many benefits of peppermint oil.