Peppermint is a hybrid mint, a cross between water mint and spearmint. The plant, indigenous to Europe, is now widespread in cultivation throughout all regions of the world. It is found wild occasionally with its parent species.
Peppermint generally grows best in moist, shaded locations, and expands by underground solons. Young shoots are taken from old stocks and dibbled into the ground about 1.5 feet apart. They grow quickly and cover the ground with runners if it is permanently moist. For the home gardener, it is often grown in containers to restrict rapid spreading. It grows best with a good supply of water, without being water-logged and planted in areas with part-sun to shade.
The leaves and flowering tops are used; they are collected as soon as the flowers begin to open and can be dried. The wild form of the plant is less suitable for this purpose, with cultivated plants having been selected for more and better oil content. They may be allowed to lie and wilt a little before distillation, or they may be taken directly to the still.
Peppermint oil is generally safe, although it is necessary to dilute with carrier oil like almond or jojoba oil. It is advised that some people may experience a burning sensation or allergic rash, especially with sensitive skin. And more importantly, it is never advised to use on young children.
The entire plant contains menthol, an organic compound with local anesthetic properties which provides a wonderful cooling sensation while it naturally alleviates discomfort. It also has antibacterial, antiviral, anti-inflammatory, insecticidal, antispasmodic and carminative properties.
Uses: Peppermint has a long tradition of medicinal use, with archaeological evidence placing its use at least as far back as ten thousand years ago.
According to the Natural Medicines Comprehensive Database, which rates effectiveness of natural remedies based on scientific evidence, peppermint oil is possibly effective for Heartburn, Irritable bowel syndrome, Tension headaches and relaxing the colon during barium enemas or radiologic procedures.
The Natural Medicines Comprehensive Database rates peppermint oil as possibly ineffective for nausea following surgery and concludes there is insufficient evidence to rate its effectiveness for conditions such as Shingles, Dental plaque, Itchy skin, Urinary tract infections, Morning sickness, Nausea and vomiting, Painful menstrual periods, Bacteria overgrowth in the intestines, Lung infections, Spasms of the stomach and gallbladder, Cough and symptoms of cold, Inflammation of mouth and respiratory tract lining and Muscle or nerve pain.
Massage several drops on your abdomen, place a drop on wrists, or inhale to soothe motion sickness or general nausea. Drinking mint tea has long been the antidote to an upset stomach. Inhaling peppermint oil is also said to help curb the appetite by triggering a sense of fullness.
Menthol provides effective relief from many respiratory problems including nasal congestion, sinusitis, asthma, bronchitis and the common cold and cough. It is often included as an ingredient in natural chest rubs to help with congestion.
Peppermint oil is terrific to keep on hand at your desk or in your purse, especially if you are prone to headaches. The use of this oil has also been known to effectively lessen tandem symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, sensitivity to noise and sensitivity to light.
With a small amount of almond or other carrier oil and a drop of peppermint oil, rub on your temples, forehead, over the sinuses (avoid contact with eyes), and on the back of the neck to help soothe headache and pressure. When applied topically, peppermint oil leaves a soothing, cooling sensation that tends to work wonders.
Like many other essential oils, peppermint is able to provide relief from stress, depression and mental exhaustion due to its refreshing nature. It is also effective against feeling anxious and restless.
For stress relief, the combination of peppermint, lavender and geranium essential oils added to a warm bath help relieve stiffness while absorbed through the skin. Rub a drop of oil under the nose to help improve concentration and alertness.
Diffuse Peppermint oil in the room to improve concentration and accuracy. Apply to the back of the neck and shoulders repeatedly to keep energy levels up during the day. Inhale before and during a workout to help boost your mood and reduce fatigue.
Because peppermint oil has analgesic, anti-inflammatory and anti-spasmodic properties, it not only can relieve pain and inflammation but can also calm the spasms that cause muscle cramps.