Peppermint oil is made from the leaves of the peppermint plant. People have used peppermint oil for centuries to treat a variety of ailments, including digestive conditions, colds, and headaches. Clinical evidence suggests that peppermint oil may help with the symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome. This oil can help with indigestion and counteract constriction in the GI tract caused by an endoscopy or barium enema.
Peppermint oil is used to treat headaches, muscle pain, nerve pain, oral inflammation, joint conditions, bad breath, and menopausal symptoms, to prevent mosquitoes, to reduce plaque, and to solve skin problems. This article discusses the health benefits of peppermint oil.
Benefits of Peppermint Oil
1. Reduces muscle & joint pain
Peppermint oil can be used extremely to relieve muscle pain. It is believed that the presence of calcium antagonism in peppermint oil helps to relieve pain in the affected area. In case of injury, apply this oil topically to reduce swelling, relieve pain and eliminate the possibility of uncomfortable joint inflammation.
2. Prevent sinus
Inhaling this oil relieves sinus congestion, and helps combat nasal congestion, asthma, bronchitis, colds, and coughs, among other problems.
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3. Suppresses appetite
Inhaling peppermint oil or applying it to your chest can help curb cravings and make you feel full faster.
4. Boost energy
If you have long-term fatigue symptoms, peppermint oil can be very beneficial. Its analgesic properties help improve energy levels, focus, and concentration and thereby help you function better in your daily life.
5. Prevents allergy
Peppermint oil as well as clove and eucalyptus oil can help combat the risk of allergies by relaxing your nasal passages and clearing your nose of any dirt and pollen.
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6. Itch-resistant
Itchy or painful IV-administered rash, you can use peppermint oil to soothe and relieve it.
7. Reduce fever
This oil is cooling in nature and subsequently used to reduce fever. It is frequently referred to as a “refrigerant”, meaning it can provide an intensely cold sensation to any affected area.
8. For skincare
Peppermint oil contains menthol, which is good for the skin as it provides a cooling sensation. Moreover, it nourishes dull skin and improves the structure of oily skin.
9. Clear acne
The antimicrobial agents of peppermint oil help clear acne naturally by keeping the skin free of any allergens or pimple-causing bacteria.
10. Relieves headache
Researchers at the Neurological Clinic at the University of Kiel in Germany say peppermint oil is a good home remedy for nausea and headaches because it has cooling and anti-inflammatory properties. [1] To reduce headaches quickly, apply it directly to the forehead in a diluted form. Inhaling this oil can eliminate the effects of nausea and motion sickness as it has a relaxing effect. Moreover, according to a 2007 study, it reduces migraine pain in some patients as a result of topical application.
11. Promotes hair growth
Peppermint oil has antiseptic, regenerative, and stimulating effects, helping to relieve dry scalp and burns, creating hair growth for those who are satiated with baldness, and giving hair a glossy, fresh shine.
12. Dental and oral care
Peppermint oil, due to its antiseptic properties, eliminates bad breath (halitosis) and helps fight germs and toothaches. Amazingly, these properties mean that it is added to numerous kinds of toothpaste. Sometimes, inhaling oil vapor can be anti-inflammatory and analgesic, so it can even be added to oxygen after surgery, especially oral surgery.
13. Reduces nausea
Rubbing a mixture of peppermint oil and water behind your ear can significantly reduce chemotherapy-induced nausea.
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14. Improves digestion
Peppermint oil is a carminative and therefore helps to remove excess gas. It is also a good tonic for those who have a low appetite and helps with bloating, stomach pain, motion sickness, nausea, and upset stomach. Preliminary research has shown that when combined with a carrier oil, it can be used to relieve heartburn. [2] People often add a few drops of peppermint oil to a glass of water and drink it after their meals to aid digestion.
15. Reduce stress
Like most other essential oils, peppermint oil can provide relief from stress, depression, and mental fatigue due to its refreshing nature. It is also effective against anxiety and restlessness. In addition, it stimulates mental activity, clears the mind, and increases knowledge.
Uses of Peppermint Oil
Peppermint oil is commonly used as a flavoring in foods and beverages and as a fragrance in soaps and cosmetics. Peppermint oil is also used for a variety of health conditions and can be taken orally in dietary supplements or as a skin cream or ointment.
Side Effects of Peppermint Oil
Side-effect of excessive use of peppermint oil include:
- Allergic reactions
- Burning mouth syndrome
- Diarrhea with anal burning
- Flushing
- Headache
- Heartburn
- Mouth ulcers
- Rash
- Skin irritation
- Inflammation of the kidney
- Difficulty breathing from topical use
- Difficulty speaking and breathing
- Acute renal failure
Avoid peppermint oil during pregnancy. Avoid it during breastfeeding and keep babies away from it.
Therefore, peppermint oil should be used in the right amount considering its benefits and harms as excessive use of any product can harm our health. The above is information provided for general information purposes only. It is recommended that you consult your doctor before using peppermint oil for healing.
Conclusion
The information discussed in this article is about the health benefits of peppermint oil. In this article, you will learn about the benefits and harms, uses, and other information of peppermint oil. I hope the information mentioned in this article will be useful to you. Thank you!
FAQ
1. What does peppermint oil do for our bodies?
Ans: Peppermint oil is promoted for topical use (applied to the skin) for problems such as headaches, muscle pain, joint pain, and itching. In aromatherapy, peppermint oil is used to treat coughs and colds, reduce pain, improve mental functioning, and reduce stress.
2. Can I apply peppermint oil directly to my skin?
Ans: Topical application of peppermint oil is generally safe, however, it needs to be diluted by mixing it with a carrier oil such as peanut or jojoba oil. It is advised that some people may experience burning or allergic rhinitis after using this oil, especially with sensitive skin. If this happens, avoid use.
3. Can I add peppermint to the water?
Ans: Peppermint oil is another oil commonly added to water, and is ideal for a refreshing summer drink. It is comfortable and can help with digestion.
4. Can I put peppermint oil on my nose?
Ans: Peppermint oil contains menthol. This compound can affect the mucous receptors in the nose, helping to open the airways and clear mucus. Laboratory studies show that peppermint oil can fight bacteria, which is a trigger for sinus congestion. Animal studies show that it can reduce inflammation.
5. Can I use peppermint oil on my hair?
Ans: Peppermint oil may be known for some skincare benefits, but it’s also good for your hair and scalp. May help with dryness, itching, or other scalp problems.
6. Why is peppermint oil bad for us?
Ans: Possible side effects of peppermint oil if taken by mouth, include heartburn, nausea, abdominal pain, and dry mouth. Sometimes peppermint oil can cause allergic reactions.