Peppermint Essential Oil 

Latin Name: Mentha piperita 

Origin: Peppermint is one of the oldest and most commonly used herbs for medicinal purposes.  It is a hybrid of watermint and spearmint. Evidence can be dated back to Egyptian, Roman, and Greek societies.  It is largely cultivated throughout Europe, Italy, Japan, and the USA, but is indigenous to the Mediterranean region.  

Extraction Method: This therapeutic oil is extracted from the leaves of the peppermint plant through steam distillation.  

Color: Clear/colorless to pale yellow 

Characteristics: Derived from methyl, this essential oil has a wonderfully refreshing minty aroma.  It has a strong yet cooling fragrance to it as well, 

Uses: The health benefits of this aromatic oil are widely recognized throughout the world.  The therapeutic properties have even been studied within the scientific field. With so much to offer, it is no wonder that this oil can be found in many commercial products such as toothpaste, mouthwash, lotions, soap, and chewing gum.  

Therapeutically, peppermint essential oil offers an array of options.  It is known to revitalize the mind, lift the spirits, and help to alleviate stress.  It can improve blood circulation throughout the body which is beneficial in promoting healthy digestion.  The menthol component helps to cleanse the respiratory tract and can be used to heal abrasions on the skin.  Whether you are trying to boost your immune system or assuage nausea or headaches, peppermint oil is a wonderful solution.   

Some of the health benefits of peppermint oil are analgesic, anesthetic, anodyne, antiseptic, antispasmodic, aphrodisiac, astringent, carminative, decongestant, emmenagogue, and stimulant.  

Precautions: Contact with mucus membranes should be avoided due to possible irritation.  It should be kept out of the reach of children and be avoided by pregnant woman.