any home remedies, supplements or following any treatment suggested on this blog. Only your
health care provider, personal physician, or pharmacist can provide you with advice on what is
safe and effective for your unique needs or diagnose your particular medical history.
May you discover what works for you,
be healed & free of pain.
Peppermint Oil :
Peppermint is a cross between watermint and spearmint, with a high menthol content. Historically, the herb has been known for its medicinal uses. It is often termed as the world’s oldest medicine.
Unlike many other herbs and essential oils, numerous health benefits of peppermint have been studied and proved by the scientific community. As a result, peppermint oil is also sold in the form of capsules and tablets.
Peppermint contains minerals, vitamins and trace elements such as potassium, calcium, copper, iron, manganese, and vitamins A, B2 and C.
Peppermint has also been shown to retard the growth of many varieties of bacteria and fungi. It's thought to help relieve symptoms of allergies and asthma as well.
The health benefits of peppermint oil include the following:
Acne:
Peppermint is known to balance the PH
levels of the skin which may help balance the production of excessive oils
of the skin. Also the astringent, antiseptic and anti-inflammatory
activity of Peppermint may help diminish the appearance of acne, black
heads, rashes and redness. Simply mix 2 drops of Peppermint Oil into your
regular face wash every morning and at night. One drop of the oil can also
be mixed into a moisturizer and applied onto the affected area overnight
for acne or skin rashes.
Headaches and Migraines:
According to researchers, Peppermint
has vasodilatory effects which may help in the dilation of constricted
blood vessels, one of the common triggers of headaches and migraines. When
you feel a light headache or migraine is coming on, apply a small amount
of Peppermint oil on the temples, forehead and back of the neck to help
alleviate the pains. If any kind of irritation occurs, Peppermint Oil
should be diluted in extra virgin olive oil. Mix 3-4 drops of Peppermint
Oil into one tablespoon of olive oil. Based on the sensitivity level olive
oil amount can be increased.
Head Lice:
Peppermint is known to be a natural
insect repellent. Therefore, applying Peppermint Oil thoroughly into the
hair for about 30 minutes before taking a shower may help get rid of head
lice. This should be repeated three times a week. If you experience any
skin irritation, you can try diluting the Peppermint oil with a small
amount of olive oil.
Indigestion: Peppermint oil is very helpful in digestion. Often people put a few drops of peppermint oil in a glass of water and drink it after their meal due to its digestive properties. It is carminative and therefore helps in removing gas. Peppermint is a good tonic for those who have a low appetite. It also helps during motion sickness and upset stomach. Preliminary research has proved that peppermint oil in the combination of caraway oil can be used for treating heartburn.
Dental Care:
Peppermint, due to its antiseptic properties, is useful for dental care. It is also useful for treating toothaches.
Respiratory Problems:
Menthol, which is present in abundance in peppermint oil, helps in clearing the respiratory tract. It is an effective expectorant and therefore provides instantaneous, though temporary,
relief in numerous respiratory problems including nasal congestion, sinusitis, asthma, bronchitis, cold and cough. As a result, it is used in numerous cold rubs. When these cold rubs are rubbed on the chest, they remove nasal and respiratory congestion immediately.
Irritable Bowel Syndrome:
A few studies have shown that
enteric-coated Peppermint capsules or fresh Peppermint leaves may relieve
IBS symptoms. It can also relax the gastro-esophageal sphincter that may
help with bloating, gas and indigestion by promoting burping and belching.
For IBS, taking 1-2 enteric-coated peppermint capsules twice daily may be
beneficial. The enteric-coated capsules don't release peppermint in the
stomach but delay the release of menthol until it reaches the small
intestine. Large amounts of menthol in the stomach can cause irritation
and acidic reaction in the stomach. The carminative properties of
Peppermint may help with indigestion, bloating, flatulence and upset
stomach. Simply drinking one cup of peppermint tea 2-3 times daily may be
helpful. If you have heartburn or are being treated for acid reflux or
GERD, do not take peppermint.
Menstrual Cramps:
Peppermint is known to relax
constricted muscles. Therefore, drinking one cup of Peppermint tea 2-3
times daily during the menstrual cycle may help soothe menstrual cramps.
Pain Relief:
Peppermint has analgesic and
anti-inflammatory activity which may help with muscular pains and
arthritis. Simply apply Peppermint Oil onto the affected area 2 to 3 times
daily. In case of any kind of skin irritation, Peppermint Oil can be
diluted into extra virgin olive oil. For strained muscles after strenuous
workouts or sports, adding 6-10 drops of Peppermint Oil into warm bath
water can relax and soothe strained muscles.
Sinusitis and Colds:
The decongestant, expectorant,
antiviral and astringent properties of Peppermint may help soothe sore
throats and relieve dry cough, cold and nasal congestion. For nasal
congestion, sinusitis, cold, flu and asthma, drinking peppermint tea and
inhaling its vapors from the tea may help. Simply steep one teaspoon
of peppermint leaves in a boiling cup of water for 5-8 minutes. Strain out
the leaves and add honey for sweetness if desired. Drink this tea and
inhale the vapors from it while drinking 2-3 times daily. For dry coughs
drinking Peppermint tea and massaging Peppermint oil on the chest two to
three times daily may
help since the Menthol in Peppermint thins the mucus, lubricates the
respiratory tract and helps bring
out the thick and dried phlegm from the lungs and bronchi.
Stress and Anxiety:
Recent studies have shown that
aromatherapy using peppermint oil may help relieve anxiety, stress,
emotional imbalance and stress-induced headaches or migraines. Simply
light Peppermint essential oil in
a diffuser or burner and relax in an easy chair nearby for 30 minutes.
While you are inhaling peppermint aroma, breathe in through the nose and
out the mouth and let your body loosen and relax. Listening to any of your
favorite natural spa music can add to the relaxation. Repeat this
aromatherapy at least 3 times a weak.
Immune System:
Peppermint oil increases your immunity to
diseases and therefore helps you in preventing
a number of diseases.
Blood Circulation: It also improves blood circulation.
Hair Care:
Peppermint oil is very useful for hair care as it gives a cooling effect to the head, and removes dandruff.
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