Peppermint Oil: Benefits, Uses, and Effects

Centuries ago, ancient civilizations were wise enough not to let peppermint oil’s therapeutic virtues go unutilized. Egyptians knew better (apparently, they always did) to recognize the remedying potential of dried peppermint leaves before everyone else. They used it for fragrance, cosmetics, household purposes, and even mummification. 

Following suit, Greeks, Romans, Chinese and Japanese grabbed the best benefits of peppermint oil and made it a staple in their day-to-day lives.

Many moons later, here we are discussing the benefits of peppermint essential oil, and future generations will surely do the same. But how does peppermint oil help us? Can we use it directly on the skin? How much of it would be the right amount? 

Answers to all your peppermint oil-related questions are explained in this blog. 

Keep reading:

Constitution Of Peppermint Essential Oil

Peppermint oil is extracted from Mentha piperita, a perennial herb native to the Mediterranean. It has a sharp, fresh, and invigorating scent. By appearance, Mentha piperita grows approximately 90cm with dark green leaves with coarse, serrated edges. It belongs to the mint family, a cross between spearmint and water mint plants. The chemical makeup of peppermint oil mainly contains the following compounds: 

• Menthol
• Menthone
• 1-8 Cineole
• Limonene
• Pinene
• Menthyl acetate

Benefits and Uses of Peppermint Essential Oil

1. Rejuvenates Skin

The signature attribute of peppermint oil that has made it famous in skincare is its rejuvenating properties. Naturally blessed with hydrating and cooling effects of menthol, peppermint oil makes the complexion look youthful and radiant. Its toning and balancing properties calm excess oils without drying out the surface. For this reason, peppermint oil is highly beneficial for those with oily and acne-prone skin types. Further, its exfoliating abilities help remove dirt buildup that clogs pores and eventually become breakouts’ root causes.

A recipe that you can try:

• 1 tablespoon of Himalayan Salt
• 1 tablespoon of extra virgin olive oil
• 5 drops of peppermint oil

Combine all the ingredients in a small glass container and mix well. Take a small amount and apply it to the desired area using your fingertips in a circular motion. Continue the process for 4-5 minutes. Rinse off with clean, lukewarm water, pat dry afterward.

2. Refreshes Scalp

We know the damaging effects of external aggressors are the same on the scalp as they are on the skin. Pollutants and free radicals are known to accelerate the aging of strands, making them weak from within, resulting in an increase in hair loss. 

What peppermint oil does to help an irritated scalp is that it provides antioxidant care. It promotes hair’s resilience, strengthens follicles, and makes it visibly shiny and lustrous. Moreover, with the ability to provide intense hydration, peppermint oil soothes dry and itchy scalp. It is safe to say that peppermint is probably the natural therapist your hair has been missing out on. 

A simple recipe that you may make:

• 2 tablespoons of coconut or jojoba carrier oil
• 10 drops of peppermint oil

Mix thoroughly and apply it to your scalp. Let the blend absorb into the scalp for 40-50 minutes. Wash with regular shampoo. Repeat this procedure twice a week. 

3. Congestion Ease

Congestion is an absolute vibe killer, one must agree. You are enjoying the changing of colors, temperature, and ambiance of a new season, and then comes congestion to ruin it for you. Suddenly, breathing becomes difficult, and you are unable to focus due to headaches. 

Over-the-counter medications give you instant relief, but they come with possible future side effects. So, what to do:give yourself a peppermint oil bottle.

Peppermint oil may not be the cure-all for congestion, but it helps provide comfort and relaxation to congested airways. Simultaneously, its refreshing scent creates an ambiance that promotes joyous and happy feelings.

How to use it? Here:

• Add a few drops to a diffuser or humidifier and diffuse it for 15-20 minutes at a time.
• Or inhale the scent directly from the bottle.

Make sure to avoid direct contact with eyes or skin while inhaling the scent directly from the bottle. 

4. Aromatherapy Massage

If you haven’t had the opportunity to experience a therapeutic massage with peppermint oil, then now is a time to give it a try. Massage with peppermint oil after dilution with coconut oil or jojoba oil means relaxing sore muscles, releasing joint stiffness, and boosting agility and vigor.

Peppermint leaves a cooling and warming sensation on the skin, making your body feel refreshed and rejuvenated. While its aroma calms the feelings of tension, stress, and anxiety. 

You’ll need:

• 10 drops of peppermint oil
• 10 drops of rosemary oil
• 3 tablespoons of carrier oil

Blend the ingredients well. Massage the mixture onto desired areas of the body and let it dry. Wash your hands afterward.

5. Spotless and Clean Surfaces

Now welcome peppermint oil to your kitchen cabinet. It is an excellent cleanser to help you rinse off grime and grease from the surfaces around the house, especially the stubborn spots in the kitchen. Menthol and menthane components in peppermint oil have strong purifying properties. These compounds not only support a clean and hygienic environment but also deodorize bad odors. Plus, peppermint oil is a healthy alternative to chemically loaded surface cleaners that can be harmful to the little ones at home.

An effective recipe:

• Into an empty spray bottle (16fl oz) add,
• 1 cup of white vinegar
• ½ cup of lemon juice
• 20 drops of peppermint oil
• Fill the rest of the bottle with distilled water

Mist the surfaces and rub stubborn spots with a scrubbing brush. Wash off with warm water once the area is clean for spotless results. 

Effects Of Peppermint Oil

Peppermint oil suits most skin types. However, it is necessary to follow a proper procedure of dilution before applying it to the skin. Follow the directions guided in the recipes and avoid using it undiluted at all times. If sensitivity or irritation occurs, quit using the oil immediately and contact your dermatologist if the problem persists. To be safe, you can always do a patch test first.