Peppermint is one of the most refreshing essential oils and is renowned for its cooling properties.  It is widely used in aromatherapy to stimulate mental agility, clear the mind of fuzziness and focus you on the job in hand.  Its calming agents help to cool the skin and reduce irritation, redness and itching. 

There are a wide array of ailments that can be significantly soothed by peppermint – headaches and migraines; congestion of the sinuses or chest and ailments of the digestive system.

The oil has a sharp, clear menthol scent and has been grown historically in China and Japan.  Proof of use can be dated back as far as ancient Egyptian times. 

You can use peppermint oil in the following way:

Burners and vaporizers

If you need to give your concentration a boost then put a few drop in a burner to get those cogs turning.  Alternatively if your suffering from coughs or chest infections use steam inhalation with peppermint to ease symptoms.  It is also great at reducing nausea in morning sickness or when traveling as well as repelling those pesky insects in summer.

Massage oil or drops in the bath

In the bath or in massage peppermint oil can ease cramps, back problems, ailments of the digestive system such as inflamed bowel, colitis and constipation.  Rejuvenate tired and sweaty feet also in a foot bath.

Mouthwash

To combat bad breath and heal gum infections use peppermint as a mouth wash.

Cream or lotion

As a cream or lotion peppermint is excellent for soothing sunburn and any itchiness. 

 This versatile oil blends well with eucalyptus, marjoram, rosemary, lemon and lavender.