Peppermint essential oil and its many uses
If you only thought that peppermint was good for freshening breath then you’ll be surprised to learn that it has many more uses for our health in and around the home. Here we take a look at just a few…
Soothing stomachs
One of the most commonly known uses for peppermint oil is its ability to help soothe the stomach and drinking peppermint tea is one of the best ways to do that. It can also help with travel sickness and nausea – just a few drops gently massaged into the wrists should do the trick.
Mint tea
Cold relief
Peppermint oil, diluted with a carrier oil such as almond or jojoba, can be used as a chest rub to relieve congestion.
And if your head is feeling stuffy or you can’t stop coughing then try a peppermint essential oil facial steam bath. Simply add a few drops to boiling water in a boil and with a towel draped over your head breathe in the steam. Try adding rosemary or eucalyptus to the bowl along with the peppermint as these marry well together.
Headache relief
Dilute peppermint essential oil with a small amount of almond or other carrier oil and try rubbing it gently on the back of the neck, temples, forehead, and over the sinuses (avoiding contact with the eyes). It should help to soothe and cool.
Banishing stress and anxiety
Peppermint used with other oils is a great stress reliever. Simply add a combination of peppermint, lavender, and geranium essential oils to a warm bath and soak until you feel calmer. It should also help to relieve any stiffness in your body.
Soaking in the bath
Staying energised and alert
Paradoxically peppermint oil can also raise your energy levels and keep you alert and as such is a great alternative to that mid-afternoon cup of coffee.
Simply rub a drop of oil under the nose and it should help to improve concentration. Alternatively, add a few drops to a diffuser and as well as making the room smell lovely it should help to keep your energy levels up.
Treating dandruff
Peppermint essential oil can be added to your regular shampoo to treat dandruff.
Relief for feet
Try adding a few drops to a foot bath at the end of the day to relieve those tired, aching feet.
Insect bite relief
For instant relief from an insect bite use a combination of peppermint and lavender essential oils and dab onto the bite. If you are sensitive to undiluted essential oils you may wish to mix with a carrier oil first.
Bin odours
Add a few drops to the bottom of your bin each time you change the bag and banish nasty bin odours forever!
How do you use peppermint essential oil? Let us know in the comments box below.
Melina - Assistant Editor
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