A peppermint candy by the side of your restaurant dinner check actually has a purpose. When I was a kid, I just thought it tasted good at the end of my meal. Turns out, the peppermint oil stimulates the gall bladder and bile secretion, helping your digestive system work smoothly. Who knew!! Well, certainly not me, not then.
Peppermint was used as a medicinal back in ancient Egypt, Rome, and Greece. In Greek mythology, Pluto turned the nymph Mentha into a peppermint plant so she could be enjoyed and appreciated for many years to come.
As it turns out, Peppermint is a sterile hybrid of the water mint and spearmint plants. True! So if you're planting in your garden, get a start from a friend or go to a nursery. It'll spread out with runners. Peppermint is one of the mints that can tolerate part shade.
A peppermint sprig or two is amazing put in water to flavor and give it that little “umph”! Experiment by adding a drop of essential oil and see how you like it.
I love the scent. To stimulate, to relieve, and to help me breath. It's also my “go-to” medicinal for headaches, putting a drop on my finger and rubbing at the nap of my neck where needed. This one's a keeper. Always have it on hand.
Peppermint Essential Oil
Botanical Name: Mentha piperata
Extraction Method: Steam Distilled
Origin: India
Description: GRAS- The Peppermint plant is a summer-growing perennial with upright square stems reaching three feet in height at maturity.
Common Uses: Peppermint benefits the respiratory system, opens the sensory system, for stimulation, strengthening, shock, fever, headache, migraine, antiseptic, throat infection, colds and flu. Beneficial for asthma, bronchitis, itchy skin, anti-spasmodic, inflammation, swelling, sinuses, anti-bacterial, jet lag, chronic fatigue syndrome, colic, cramp, fatigue, nervous stress, vertigo, toothache, acne, ringworm, heartburn, diarrhea, indigestion, motion sickness, nausea, halitosis, varicose veins, arthritis, menstrual regularity, hot flashes, liver problems, dispels pride, inferiority. Peppermint leaves contain menthol, which is a proven aid to digestion. The familiar aroma of Mentha piperita is known for both its warming and cooling properties. Friendly to the sinuses, peppermint is also useful to the muscular system, especially for women during monthly cycles or menopause. Properties include being refreshing, a mental stimulant and energizing. It relieves bad breath and is a good nerve tonic that helps with mental fatigue and nervous stress.
Consistency: Thin
Blends well with: Peppermint mixes well with most oils. Eucalyptus, Lavender, Marjoram and Citrus Oils.
Aromatic Scent: Peppermint Essential Oil has strong minty notes with herbaceous warm undertones.
History: Peppermint oil is one of the world's oldest medicinal herbs with documented use in ancient Egypt, Greece and Rome.
Responsible Cautions: Peppermint Essential Oil should be used well diluted since high concentration can cause a burning sensation and sensitization. It is an emmenagogue, which means it stimulates menstruation. This means pregnant women should not use Peppermint Essential Oil. Spearmint, diluted, is a possible alternative. Diluting some spearmint is also a possible alternative on young children.
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