Peppermint Usage and Profile

Peppermint Usage and Profile

Peppermint (Mentha piperita)

• Data: Reputed to be  a digestive stimulant. Jean Valnet, M.D., used peppermint to treat liver and respiratory diseases.
• Medical Properties: Anti-inflammatory, antitumoral, antiparasitic (worms), antibacterial, antiviral, antifungal, gallbladder/ digestive stimulant, pain-relieving, pain-reliever, curbs appetite.
• USES: Rheumatism/arthritis, respiratory infections (pneumonia, tuberculosis, etc), obesity, viral infections (Herpes simplex, herpes zoster, cold sores, human papilloma virus etc.), fungal infections/Candida, digestive problems, headaches, nausea, skin conditions (itchy skin, varicose veins, eczema, psoriasis, dermatitis), scoliosis/lumbago/back problems.
• Fragrant Influence: Purifying and stimulating to the conscious mind. When inhaled, it improves/restores sense of taste by stimulating the trigeminal nerve. University of Kiel researchers found that peppermint blocked headache pain in a double-blind placebo-controlled cross-over study.
• Usage: Dilute 1 part EO with 2 parts carrier oil; (1) apply 1-2 drops on location, abdomen, temples (2) chakras, (3) directly inhale, (4) diffuse, or (5) take as dietary supplement).

To improve concentration, alertness, and memory, place 1-2 drops on the tongue. Inhale 5-10 times a day to curb appetite.

My favorite recipe for headache is to mix 3 drops of peppermint and 3 drops of lavender add to 1 Tablespoon carrier oil and massage temples.

Cautions: Avoid contact with eyes, mucus membranes, sensitive skin, or fresh wounds or burns. You should wash hands immediately after touching peppermint. If you forget and get peppermint in your eyes, rinse eyes with milk or carrier oil, never use water to rinse eyes. Do not apply to infants younger than 18 months of age.