Benefits and uses of peppermint oil
Made from crushed peppermint leaves, peppermint oil comes in various forms, each with its own use. Some of the most popular forms include peppermint oil diffusers, skin and hair care products, non-toxic insect and vermin repellants, natural cleaning products, dietary supplements and pure essential oil.
Peppermint oil can have certain health benefits, mainly when used in aromatherapy or as a health supplement. With so many versatile applications, chances are there’s a use for peppermint oil in your household.
In this article: Botanic Hearth Peppermint Oil Shampoo And Conditioner Set, Mighty Mint Peppermint Oil Insect Repellent Spray and Natural Riches Breathe Synergy Blend
Uses for peppermint oil
Peppermint oil is good for many things, some of which are more commonly known while others are more surprising. Here are the top ways to use it.
Health benefits
Peppermint oil is widely used as pain relief, digestive aid and cold relief. It’s also popular in aromatherapy as holistic healing that relies on essential oils and plant extracts to promote physical and emotional health.
Pain relief: Applied topically, peppermint oil can alleviate migraines and muscle pain. This is mainly due to the menthol and menthone content in it. Menthol especially has a cooling effect, which could ease the tension that results in migraines or muscle aches.
To use peppermint oil topically, you may need to dilute peppermint essential oil with a carrier oil such as almond oil, jojoba oil or coconut oil. For most adults, a two percent dilution is considered safe and effective. This equates to roughly two drops of the essential oil mixed with a teaspoon of carrier oil. Once diluted, apply a small amount of the solution directly to the area that needs relief.
Some people may experience greater relief by using more peppermint oil. If needed, experiment with the exact ratios until you find what works for you.
Digestive aid: Although there are mixed results, some studies have shown that peppermint oil could help with irritable bowel syndrome. It may also help alleviate nausea, indigestion and certain chronic gastrointestinal issues like diarrhea or constipation.
For IBS, enteric-coated peppermint oil capsules are beneficial because the coating prevents the capsule from breaking down until it reaches the intestines. Once it reaches the intestines, it dissolves and can provide relief for symptoms of IBS, such as diarrhea, abdominal pain, constipation and gas.
Those who don’t have IBS but have indigestion or nausea may also benefit from peppermint oil. For mild nausea, massage a few drops of diluted peppermint oil directly on the stomach. Or drink a cup of hot organic peppermint tea for some relief.
Motion sickness: A few drops of peppermint oil on the wrists, peppermint tea or a quick whiff of peppermint oil may help alleviate motion sickness and seasickness.
Itch relief: Peppermint oil combined with petroleum jelly may alleviate itching caused by liver disease or diabetes. It may also soothe itching caused by poison ivy or hives.
Cough suppressant and sore throat relief: Peppermint oil is a natural decongestant and aid against a sore throat and light coughs, especially when combined with menthol. That’s why peppermint is so common in cold medicines and cough drops.
Essential oil blends like Natural Riches Breathe Synergy Blend can provide relief from congested sinuses and stuffiness.
Mental improvement: Some people believe peppermint oil aids in improving concentration, focus and mental clarity. In aromatherapy, peppermint oil can alleviate stress.
Skin and hair health
Many skincare and haircare products use peppermint oil. One reason for this is that peppermint oil has known antimicrobial properties and can destroy harmful microorganisms. Diluted peppermint oil can also help unclog pores and clear up breakouts. You can also combine a few drops of the oil with an equal amount of water and apply it with a dropper directly to problem areas.
For hair and scalp, peppermint oil shampoo and other products effectively prevent dandruff, soothing itchy or dry skin and improving head and hair health. If your shampoo of choice doesn’t have peppermint as a critical ingredient, try adding a few drops to the bottle for a boost.
Pest control
Because it’s non-toxic, peppermint oil makes for a safe, natural pest and insect control for critters like ants, spiders, roaches and even rodents. For an at-home version, mix 20 drops of peppermint essential oil and8 ounces of water. Spray the solution at key entry points around the house, such as windows, doors and near plumbing.
If you have a mouse or rat problem, squeeze a few drops of oil on cotton balls. Then, use the cotton balls to block areas where vermin may try to enter. This should deter them for a while, but you may need to reapply the oil every few weeks or so.
Cleaning and sanitation
Some organic, all-purpose household cleaners use peppermint oil for its lovely, fresh scent and antibacterial and antifungal properties. But you can also make a homemade cleaning product with peppermint oil. All you need is to combine 8 ounces of distilled water and 8 ounces of white vinegar in a spray bottle. Then, add 25 to 35 drops of peppermint essential oil. If desired, mix in a few drops of dish soap, too.
Risks and side effects of peppermint oil
Peppermint oil has few adverse side effects, but here are some things to consider before you use it.
- Some people are allergic to essential oils or peppermint itself. Test a small, diluted amount of peppermint oil before using it.
- You should not ingest peppermint oil in large quantities. When taking a food-grade dietary supplement, follow the instructions on the bottle. If in doubt, consult your primary care doctor.
- Children under the age of 6 should not use peppermint oil. Pregnant women also should not use peppermint oil unless they speak with a doctor first.
Otherwise, use your best judgment when using peppermint oil in any way.
Cost of peppermint oil
A small, half-ounce bottle of pure peppermint essential oil will cost $7-$10, but it will go a long way since you only need a few drops for each use. Certified, USDA-approved or larger bottles of the oil may cost $10-$20.
Prices listed reflect time and date of publication and are subject to change.
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