Peppermint oil is a very popular product on the market which has a very distinctive smell that is recognizable across the entire world. The smell and taste of the product are used in a number of different products, from ice cream to chewing gum, toothpaste and tea. Peppermint oil is a common flavouring agent for a number of different products and is even used in fragrances and soaps. It is also used for several medicinal purposes and can be helpful for a number of conditions. It is safe to say that peppermint oil has been touted as one of the most useful and well-known products on the market today, and is a great addition to your collection.
Peppermint oil can be used for many different purposes, ranging from aromatherapy to flavour and even provides some medicinal benefits. It has such a wide range of uses that it is considered one of the most popular items on the market.
Here is everything you need to know about peppermint oil.
History and Origins
Peppermint oil comes from a plant that holds many other similar products with varying levels of fragrance and flavour. Peppermint oil is derived from a mixture of products and has its roots steeped in ancient history. Ancient historical texts have referenced its use, and it has been seen in use from the 18th century of England. However, it has been used since 1500 BC for a variety of purposes. It has been thought that this product originated in Northern Africa and the Mediterranean, as it is claimed to have been used for medical purposes there. Evidence of this has been shown on Ancient Egyptian papyrus scrolls outlining medical practices, with its use outlined for stomach pains. Renowned English biologist stumbled upon the plant which he noticed he had never documented and started a period where many trialled what it could be used for.
And here we are today.
Aromatherapy and Peppermint Oil
Aromatherapy is a popular way to use peppermint oil, as it provides many benefits in its use and is used with a number of similar products.
Morning Energy Boost
Using peppermint oil in a diffuser first thing in the morning is a great way to wake up. Because of its strong and pervasive scent, using it in a diffuser is a good way to heighten your senses immediately and get you out of bed. Putting a few drops into a diffuser will fill your environment with a strong scent which can get you up and in the mood to start your morning routine.
For Colds and Congestion
Peppermint oil can be used for colds and congestion. Congestion occurs in the throat and chest, and peppermint oil can be rubbed onto these areas. In doing so, it promotes healing and helps the congestion to clear. A humidifier can also be used with a few drops of the product to help clear the sinuses, in combination with the above.
Headache
Peppermint oil can be used for headaches to help clear them up so you can get on with your day. Keeping some of the product in your pocket or purse is a good way to have easy access to it in case a headache strikes. Rubbing a few drops onto your head around the areas affected by the headache can help soothe it. You can also add in a diffuser with a few drops in it to help soothe the headache as well.
Stress Relief
Stress relief can be very helpful to many of the population through the use of aromatherapy. Stress is something that affects nearly everyone in their lives. Our lives have become much more stressful due to a variety of factors, and stress can lead to many issues. These include increased risk of heart disease, stroke, mental health issues, insomnia and so on. Putting a few drops of peppermint oil into a diffuser will help to relax you and the end of the day, and relieve stress. It is best used in the morning before starting your day, or after coming home from work. This way you can relax in a stress-relieving environment after leaving a potentially stressful environment, such as work.
Sore Muscles
Sore muscles are the result of working your muscles in a strenuous way that micro-tears the fibres. If you are not used to this type of activity, your body will push lactic acid into these areas. This lactic acid is what is responsible for that sore feeling you get after exercise. Rubbing some peppermint oil on the affected muscle groups can help to soothe the symptoms of soreness, and can help you recover for your next exercise session.
Cools Down the Body
During the hot summer periods, it can get very hot depending on where you are in the country. In Australia, it can get up to 35+ degrees on any given day! The use of peppermint oil can help to cool down the body. With a few drops placed into a diffuser, calcium channels will begin to be active in the body. This may not be enough help if you continue to wear long and warm clothes but is enough to make a small difference. This small difference can be night and day when it comes to these hot summer days. It is important to stay hydrated on these hot days, and this should be taken into consideration when trying to stay cool in these environments.
Better Night’s Sleep
Insomnia affects a large amount of the population at least once in their lifetime, and it can be debilitating. Getting enough rest every night is vital to our functioning in everyday life. When you cannot get the rest needed, you will suffer in your work, in going about your daily routine and so on. Luckily, peppermint oil can be placed into a diffuser and used to create an aroma of relaxation in an environment, making it easier to sleep. Placing a diffuser with peppermint oil in your bedroom and allowing yourself to relax is a great way to get your body in the mood to sleep. Having too much energy and racing thoughts are a big reason why people cannot sleep. Having the scent of peppermint oil in the air can make your mind relax, and thereby help you to sleep subsequently.
Overall, peppermint oil is a highly useful tool that is utilised by people across the world and has been for centuries now. It has a powerful fragrance and scent and is used in many different foods and products as a flavouring and scent agent. Peppermint oil can be used in a diffuser for aromatherapy purposes, which brings with it many different benefits. It can help with relaxation and stress relief, which is also great for sleeping. Furthermore, it can be used for muscle soreness and even cooling down the body. All of these things add up to display a product which is immensely helpful to many different types of people in differing situations.
Peppermint oil is a must have for any holistic therapist, or those who prefer the power of natural remedies over pharmaceuticals to treat a number of ailments.
