Peppermint (Mentha arvensis)
Peppermint essential oil is a fresh, menthol oil with a strong, minty and cooling aroma.
The peppermint plant is native to Europe but nowadays the USA is the major producer of peppermint oil. The stem grows to about 3 foot high and has purple spiked flowers and serrated leaves. It is a hybrid of Watermint and Spearmint.
Extraction
Peppermint oil is extracted from the whole plant above ground. The best time for extraction is just before flowering, and the fresh or partly dried plant is used for the highest yield of good quality oil.
Affects
Peppermint essential oil is cooling when hot and warming when cold. It is used to disperse heat both physically and emotionally (e.g. anger). It has a stimulating and replenishing affect, so is useful for relieving tiredness, easing tension and helping the muscles in the digestive system.
History
The Greek myths tell us that the nymph Mentha was pursued by Pluto, and Pluto’s wife was so jealous she trod Mentha into the ground. Pluto felt compassion for the nymph and turned her into a herb, which is how Peppermint came to be.
The Ancient Egyptians, Greeks and Romans were fond users of peppermint oil. The Romans were famed for using it on their heads before and during celebratory feast... possibly aware of its detoxifying affects!
Peppermint has been cultivated for commercial uses since the 1750s
Chemical constituents
Menthol (Alcohol), Menthyl acetate (Ester), Carvone, Jasmone, Menthone (Ketones), Carvacrol (Phenol), Limonene, Phellandrene (Terpenes).
Blending
Peppermint oil blends well with benzoin, eucalyptus, marjoram, lemon, lavender and rosemary.
Some suggested directions for use:
Add 6-10 drops in a bath.
Mix 5 drops with water to use in an oil burner.
Mix 6-10 drops with hot water as an inhalation.
Mix 5 drops per 10ml of carrier oil for massage.
Precautions:
Do not take internally.
Keep away from children and eyes.
Used in excess can cause skin irritation.
If pregnant or have a medical condition consult your practitioner before use.
If oil gets into eyes splash out with water, seek medical advice if necessary.
If unfamiliar with essential oils seek advice from a practitioner.
