Peppermint is probably most well-known as a natural breath freshener. A plant from the mint family, it has a very distinct flavour and aroma that makes it a common ingredient in a wide range of recipes. For centuries, it has also been quite popular as a home remedy for digestive problems.
However, it is not known to many that this plant actually has so much more to offer. In fact, peppermint oil has a very long list of natural health benefits that make it one of the most sought after essential oils today. Here are some of the outstanding health benefits of peppermint essential oil that you might find useful.
Headache relief
Its soothing scent might have something to do with the positive effect that peppermint oil has for headaches. By rubbing some of the oil on your temple area and forehead, you can get considerable relief from headaches, particularly tension headaches and migraines.
Natural antioxidant
Just like many other mints, peppermint has exhibited significant antioxidant properties. Antioxidants combat free radicals that destroy cells and hamper their development in the human body.
Natural painkiller and muscle relaxant
Peppermint has been found to have soothing effects on sore muscles when applied topically. Massaging peppermint oil on affected muscles can dramatically reduce pain and also cools down the general area. It can also control muscle spasms and is very effective as a topical analgesic. This muscle-relaxing effect comes from the limonene and menthol that are found in peppermint oil. Both substances have powerful anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties.
Antimicrobial properties
Studies by the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) Human Nutrition Research Center on Aging have revealed that peppermint has notable antimicrobial properties. It has been seen to inhibit several kinds of pathogens. Specifically, peppermint oil has displayed antibacterial effects on Staphylococcus pneumoniae, Staphylococcus aureus, Salmonella typhimurium, Escherichia coli and Pseudomonas aeruginosa. Because of this, it can be very effective in speeding up the wound healing process. Antifungal properties have also been detected in peppermint but these are quite mild and do not have much effect.
Relief of IBS symptoms
People suffering from irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) can get great relief from peppermint oil. In fact, it is being marketed widely as a remedy for IBS because of its capability of controlling IBS symptoms like constipation and bloating. Likewise, the menthol in peppermint acts as an effective muscle relaxant and also helps soothe the intestinal muscles. The anti-bloating effects of peppermint oil also make it a viable remedy for functional dyspepsia or the bloating of the gastrointestinal tract.
Skin care
Peppermint is a highly beneficial essential oil for skin care. In particular, it is excellent for easing inflammation caused by allergies, sunburns, rashes and other skin irritations. It is very important to remember that peppermint essential oil must first be combined with carrier oil and must not be applied to the skin on its own.
Relief of morning sickness and other pregnancy symptoms
A lot of pregnant women who go through morning sickness have found much relief by inhaling the scent of peppermint essential oil. Furthermore, the topical application of the oil on a pregnant woman’s belly has shown to provide quick and lasting relief from itching.
With all these health benefits, it might be advisable to always keep a bottle or two of peppermint oil as a home remedy for medical emergencies.