5 Health Benefits of Peppermint Essential Oil

Peppermint essential oil has been known for its proven health benefits as one of the best natural medicines available.  Not only does it have a pleasant aroma and cooling sensation when applied, but it has long been a part of medical practices in China and Japan for centuries.

Essential oils are extracted through steam distillation.  Some common practices of essential oils include diffusion, topical application, and as a dietary supplement.  These are the best options to receive the full benefit of what they can offer to promote health in your home and life.

Below are some very powerful ways you can use Peppermint essential oil in your everyday life:

1.)  Diffuse it into the air

When diffusing peppermint essential oil it not only calms your mind but studies have shown that it can help you focus better, increase your attention span, along with your memory.  It can also take the edge of your anxiety with its soothing aroma.  Only a few drops are needed to feel the effect of this amazing oil.  If you do not have a diffuser handy, you can also put a few drops of oil on a cotton ball and just have it near you.

2.)  Apply topically

Peppermint essential oil can be your best friend when it comes to aches and pains and can be an alternative to pain medication.  It can soothe headaches, achy joints, and back pain.  When using peppermint essential oil topically, it is always a best practice to combine it with a carrier oil such as coconut, jojoba or almond oil.  For adults 15 and over, the general dilution would be 7-8 drops of peppermint oil with about 2 teaspoons of your choice carrier oil.  When diluted, this can be applied to the skin directly for aches and pains for relief.  This works great for people who suffer from sinus headaches as it can be a great relief for sinus pain.  Just apply it with the carrier oil to the top of your eyebrows, temples, and the back of the neck as often as needed, being careful to avoid contact with your eyes.

3.)  Taken internally

Clinical studies have shown that peppermint oil can help with abdominal pain, nausea and bloating, common symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome.  It can help with indigestion and prevent spasms created in the GI tract caused by procedures such as an endoscopy.  You can find relief by adding one drop of peppermint essential oil to a glass or either warm water or tea.  As with any other type of remedy or medication, please consult with your doctor before considering internal use.

4.)  Vaporizer or Pan Steam

For those winter months when the common cold and respiratory infections can cause uncomfortable breathing, you can find a sense of relief to open up your nasal passages and inflamed airways by adding about 10 drops of peppermint essential oil to a pot of boiled water.  When it starts to steam, breathe into it for relief.  You can also use a towel around your head so that you can absorb more of the steam.  Another option is creating a topical chest rub by mixing 2-4 drops of oil with 2 teaspoons of your choice of carrier oil.  Rub on the chest an night to help soothe night time coughs.

5.)  A Bug Repellant

Peppermint essential oil a great option to keep bugs and mosquitoes away and keep your family safe.  You can create your very own bug repellant by mixing about 6-8 drops of peppermint oil and 6 teaspoons of your choice of carrier oil.  You can spray this directly on your skin when going outdoors to keep bugs at bay.

Peppermint essential oil is one of my most-used and must-have essential oil.  It’s one of of my favorite oils from Young Living, the best pure therapeutic grade essential oil you will find.