Those fond of going to spas and salons may be familiar with peppermint oil. Long used in various countries and cultures to promote relaxation, peppermint oil can also provide the body multiple benefits.
What is Peppermint Oil?
Peppermint oil is derived from the peppermint plant, which is a hybrid of water mint and spearmint. The oil has a refreshing, minty aroma and is used in many different ways.
What is Peppermint Oil Used For?
The most common use of peppermint oil is to help relieve digestive issues like stomach pain, indigestion, nausea, and gas. Peppermint oil is also used to assist in relieving headaches, tension, and muscle aches.
In addition to its medicinal uses, peppermint oil is also used in aromatherapy and as a natural cleaning agent.
What are the Benefits of Peppermint Essential Oil?
Numerous studies have shown that peppermint oil may have potential health benefits. Here are 10 of the common peppermint essential oil benefits.
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May Improve Digestive Health
Peppermint oil is commonly used to aid in digestive issues, including indigestion, nausea, and irritable bowel syndrome (IBS).
Peppermint oil is an effective way to help give ease to IBS and other digestive disorders. Known as an antispasmodic, peppermint oil is used to help relax the muscles in the stomach, which helps relieve cramps and stomach contractions.
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May Relieve Muscle Pain
Muscle pain and tension headaches are common problems. Many people turn to over-the-counter (OTC) medications for relief, but these can cause side effects like drowsiness and stomach upset.
Peppermint essential oil for pain relief is popular because it has been shown to help reduce muscle pain and joint pain throughout the body.
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May Reduce Inflammation
Inflammation is the cause of many diseases, such as arthritis, Crohn’s disease, and asthma. Peppermint oil has been shown to have anti-inflammatory effects.
Peppermint oil has been found to be effective in helping reduce inflammation and pain in people with arthritis or other similar conditions.
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May Improve Brain Function
Peppermint oil is widely considered by many to help improve various aspects of brain function, including memory and alertness.
It’s been found that inhaling peppermint oil improved memory and task performance in people with memory problems. This is why many people inhale peppermint oil or apply it to their temples before studying or working.
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May Help Relieve Menstrual Cramps
Menstrual cramps are a common problem and affects most women monthly. Because peppermint oil is an antispasmodic, it can also help ease the symptoms of menstrual pain.
Applying it to the stomach area can help reduce the cramping sensation and relaxes any muscles, helping lessen menstrual pain.
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May Help Relieve Tension Headaches
A tension headache is a type of headache that occurs when the neck and scalp muscles are under stress and contracts. It feels like having a tight rubber band around your head and typically happens early in the morning or in the evening. Unfortunately, tension headaches do not respond well to over-the-counter pain relievers. Sufferers of tension headache will be pleased to know, though, that peppermint oil can help relieve its symptoms.
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May Help Relieve Nausea
Nausea is an unpleasant feeling in the stomach that can lead to vomiting. Peppermint oil has been shown to be an effective aid in relieving nausea. When applied to the temples or on the wrists, peppermint oil can help settle the stomach and prevent it from progressing to vomiting.
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May Help Relieve Indigestion
Perhaps the most popular use for peppermint oil is for indigestion. Those with upset stomachs or heartburn can apply peppermint oil on the stomach area to help promote digestion.
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May Help Relieve Stress
Stress affects most adolescents and adults and can be debilitating. There are multiple sources of stress, from schoolwork to office work, health to finances. The effects of stress on the body can appear as headaches, stomachaches, and fatigue. To help combat stress, you can apply peppermint oil to your temples or diffuse it.
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May Help Relieve Cough
Commonly thought of as a sickness, coughing is actually a symptom of multiple other conditions. Coughing can be caused by allergies, an infection, or a chronic disease. Peppermint oil for cough relief helps the muscles in the chest and lungs relax, relieving people of their symptoms.
Safety and Side Effects of Using Peppermint Oil Topically
When used topically, peppermint oil use is generally safe and well-tolerated. However, there are a few potential side effects to be aware of.
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Skin irritation
Peppermint oil can cause skin irritation in some people. If you experience any irritation, discontinue use and consult your doctor.
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Allergic reactions
Peppermint oil can cause allergic reactions in some people. If you experience any allergic reaction, discontinue use, and consult your doctor immediately.
Who Can Use Peppermint Oil?
Peppermint oil can safely be used by most people. However, there are a few groups of people who should avoid using peppermint oil.
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Children
Peppermint oil should not be used on children under the age of 6.
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Pregnant women
Peppermint oil should be used with caution in pregnant women or those trying to get pregnant.
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Breastfeeding women
Peppermint oil should be used with caution in breastfeeding women.
How Do I Use Peppermint Oil?
Peppermint oil can be used in a variety of ways.
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Topically
Peppermint oil can be applied to the skin. However, it should not be used in its pure form. It is recommended for peppermint oil to be diluted in a carrier oil such as virgin coconut oil or castor oil. Once diluted, it can then be applied to pressure points like the temples or wrists, or on the affected area.
Diluted oil can also be used in massages to help relax the entire body and reduce the effects of stress.
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Aromatherapy
Peppermint oil can be used in aromatherapy. Just add a few drops of peppermint oil into a diffuser or an oil burner and allow the scent to permeate the air.
Oleia carries high-quality peppermint oil that’s been mixed with a blend of premium oils including olive and moringa, making it safe and ready for use! Purchase peppermint oil today and experience its many benefits.