4 Useful Applications of Peppermint Essential Oils
Peppermint essential oil is one of the most popular essential oils for beginners and seasoned pros alike. Its refreshing and stimulating aroma is instantly familiar. This little oil boasts a wide variety of uses and benefits. Let’s dive in!
Cooling Effect
One of the most interesting things about Peppermint is the cooling effect it creates on your skin when applied topically. Interestingly, this phenomenon doesn’t actually cool down your skin. Instead, the menthol content in Peppermint interacts with the cold-sensitive TRPM8 receptors in the skin, which then tell your brain that the menthol is cold when it’s actually not. Eucalyptol is another chemical constituent that can create a cooling effect.
This effect is certainly pleasant in and of itself. But using Peppermint topically can also help ease head and neck tension. Try diluting Peppermint to 5% in a roll-on bottle so you can apply it to your temples or neck next time you feel a headache coming on. It’s also great for muscle aches and strains. Combine four drops of Peppermint with six drops of Rosemary in one ounce of carrier oil. Massage onto the area of concern for relief. And finally, for a soothing and invigorating foot soak at the end of a long day, add a few drops to a teaspoon of carrier oil and ½ cup of Epsom salt. Dissolve in warm water and enjoy.
Energy and Alertness
For a quick burst of energy whenever you need it, reach for Peppermint. Its fresh, cool and unmistakable aroma will invigorate your mind and body. It promotes energy and alertness, making it ideal for any time of the day. Bring it out bright and early in the morning, during that unfortunate afternoon slump, or once you make it back home to the family after a long day. Diffuse it or add about four drops to a teaspoon of carrier oil and rub onto your wrists to take advantage of the invigorating scent.
Cleaning Tool
This minty fresh essential oil has powerful cleansing properties with a cooling fragrance that smells fantastic in the bathroom or the kitchen. It is effective against a wide range of germs at a dilution of 1%. It makes a great choice for cleaning up after preparing your family’s dinner. Peppermint’s invigorating and brain-energizing qualities also make it a great cleaning choice to help prevent the inevitable slump after you’ve cleaning for a while.
Tummy Troubles
Peppermint is also excellent for helping with nausea, carsickness and general stomach issues. It helps relax the muscles of the gastrointestinal tract so that you can get on properly digesting. And for any time you’re feeling sick to your stomach or nauseated, you can dilute Peppermint in a carrier oil and apply it directly to your stomach.