The distinctive scent of peppermint is not something that was discovered a few decades ago. The use of peppermint as a medicinal herb dates back to the early 1000 BC.
That’s a long time ago. Archeologists have found evidence of peppermint cultivation and its use in ancient civilizations. In ancient Rome it was considered that walking on peppermint leaves planted in a large garden improved health.
Today, peppermint is used in its essential oil form for aromatherapy. It is quite useful in treating several ailments. Here are some of the areas where peppermint essential oil is good.
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It can prevent and eliminate nausea – Peppermint, when inhaled, has a distinct scent that has relaxing effect on the body and mind. It relaxes the stomach muscles and boosts digestion. In case of any cramps and swellings, rubbing peppermint oil for a few minutes will abate the pain and discomfort.
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No more itches – Itchiness caused due to hive or insect bites can be treated with peppermint. There are some diseases that cause itchiness as well.
These diseases include diabetes, psoriasis, folliculitis etc. Applying peppermint oil topically can provide relief from the itchy symptoms brought on by these diseases.
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Boosts hair growth – What is the generalized reason for loss of hair or slow hair growth? Generally speaking, male and female pattern baldness is due to improper blood circulation in the scalp. The menthol content in peppermint gives it vasodilation characteristics which improve blood flow in the body (the scalp included). This stimulates hair growth. The essential oil also has anti-inflammatory properties that can eliminate dandruff and solve dry scalp problems.
Tackles symptoms of premenstrual syndrome (PMS) – PMS affects the emotional and physical well being of women. Some of the common symptoms are exhaustion, mood changes and lack of motivation. The aroma of peppermint is known to uplift one’s mood. A deep whiff of the oil can uplift the mood and boost motivation levels. It is also known to reduce nausea.
All these factors can reduce the tiredness due to PMS. And lastly, it improves digestion by relaxing the stomach muscles.
Offers relief from headaches – A few studies have proven that peppermint oil is effective in treating or lowering the pain associated with headaches and migraines. It is due to its menthol content. The menthol receptors on the skin make the skin cooler. This opens the sinuses and improves the respiration system. This can also treat colds and coughs.
Controls anxiety – Peppermint oil is used in aromatherapy to lower anxiety and the fear associated with it. It has been clinically proven in mice that were induced with fear. The scent of the peppermint oil calmed the nerves of the mice and decreased fear.
Furthermore, it induced alertness and clarity of thought. Participants in a study were asked to solve basic arithmetic and logical problems, but under a stressful environment. When the room was filled with the aroma of peppermint they were able to solve the problems faster and with precision.
Some researchers have said that inhaling peppermint fragrance increase mental functioning by more than 25%. This property is widely used by filling a student’s room with the aroma of peppermint. It also helps in retention and recollection power, which means that smelling the same aroma while taking a test or exam can help recollect the lessons studied.
Takes care of skin and scalp problems – Peppermint oil when mixed with a carrier oil and massaged or rubbed into the skin nourishes it and regulates the secretion of oil. By controlling the oil secretion, the accumulation of bacteria on the surface is removed. Damaged skin or scar can also be treated by topical application. When rubbed on the scalp, it maintains the level of hydration.
Tackles oral health issues – Its antibacterial and antiseptic properties clean the mouth and remove any bacterial or fungal accumulation. This is useful in treating plague and maintaining gum health. The effectiveness of peppermint in treating oral health is the reason why it is used in toothpastes and mouthwashes.
A few drops of peppermint and clove essential oils can be added to a mouthwash and gargled regularly to maintain good oral health and hygiene.
May treat irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) – Peppermint essential oil can treat diarrhea, bloating and abdominal pain. These benefits of peppermint oil may help in the treatment of IBS; however, more research is needed to substantiate this benefit.
These are some of the many benefits that peppermint essential oil offers for the betterment of overall health. There are also several blends of peppermint that enhance the uses and benefits of peppermint, which will be a topic of another article.