Essential Oil Spotlight: Peppermint

Expert Author J. Clay
Peppermint has a long history of being medicinal oil for aromatherapy, and has been used for several years in treatment for various ailments. Being one of the oldest medicinal used oils dating back to ancient Egypt it is known as one of the oldest medicines in known history. A native plant of the Mediterranean it is a cross between watermint and spearmint and has been in many scientific studies proving its medicinal uses. As a flavoring agent it also has essential nutrients and minerals including: manganese, iron, calcium, potassium, folate, copper, omega three fatty acids, vitamins A and C.
Skin Care
Peppermint includes menthol which can be used as a cooling agent against itches, rashes, and sunburns.
Hair Care
With peppermint's regenerative, antiseptic, and stimulating effects it can be used to relieve irritation of the scalp (dry skin) and can actually promote increased blood circulation to help combat balding. It also aids in the removal of dandruff and lice.
Dental Care
Peppermint is already used in commercial toothpaste for its antiseptic and breath freshening properties. However you can use the natural essential oil and receive the same benefits without commercial chemicals.
Nail Care
Scientific studies have shown that the anti-fungal properties of peppermint can actually prevent a fungal nail infection from occurring if applied topically to nail beds.
Aromatherapy
It has long been used, for centuries, in aromatherapy to reduce stress and promote respiratory health. The menthol in peppermint, when used as a rub, helps to clear respiratory passages and acts as an expectorant to help fight asthma, the common cold, nasal congestion, and sinusitis. In aromatherapy peppermint is used to treat headaches, nausea, anxiety and to reduce stress. Headaches can also be treated topically and studies have shown that its effects are noticeable within 15 minutes.
Medical uses
For payment relief peppermint has been used to reduce inflammation, swelling and acts as a cooling sensation against sunburns, fevers and other wounds. It provides overall immune system stimulation by providing powerful antiviral, antifungal, anti-septic and anti-bacterial fighting mechanisms. It has also been used topically to increase blood circulation that helps oxygenate the brain in Alzheimer's and dementia cases.
Gastric Treatment
Peppermint can treat many gastric ailments including motion sickness, nausea, and upset stomachs. A few drops in a glass of water taken before a meal can aid with indigestion problems. As peppermint can relax muscles of the digestion system it is often used to treat irritable bowel syndrome.
As one of the oldest and most versatile essential oils peppermint is known around the world as the oldest medicine. Since it can be used topically, ingested, and in aromatherapy its uses are many. It can even be used as flavoring in drinks, cooking and baking. Although it is one of the safest among essential oils you should still speak with your doctor about its use. Overuse reactions can include headaches, heartburn or an allergic reaction.
J. Clay owns http://www.essentialhealing.info/ She loves Certified Pure Therapeutic Grade Essential Oils for all their wonderful qualities! For more information on essential oils click here http://www.essentialhealing.info/
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