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Peppermint: Oil, Tea, Plant

Peppermint (Mentha piperita). Relaxes and soothes the stomach muscles and gastrointestinal tract. Peppermint’s actions as an anti-inflammatory, antiseptic, and antimicrobial also make it an effective skin treatment, and useful in fighting cold and flu symptoms. In addition, research in 2002 found that peppermint scent helped athletes
run faster and perform more push–ups than control subjects with odorless strips under their noses.

The oil is obtained from the leaves and flowers by steam distillation and varies in quality depending on climatic and soil conditions. It is a very therapeutic oil which has a cooling effect on the skin and lessens pain. You'll notice most commerical indigestion cures are mint­flavoured. Peppermint is excellent for digestive problems. It also makes a great foot bath for hot, aching feet. Note: It is not advisable to use this oil during pregnancy.

Migraine

Use it neat on the temples.

Heartburn and indigestion

Mix into a carrier oil and massage the stomach and rib-cage.

Hot, aching feet

Add ten drops to a large bowl of lukewarm water. Soak feet for at least fifteen minutes.

Travel sickness

Inhale, or blend in a carrier oil and massage the stomach and temples.

Sinus, catarrh

Inhale, or use to massage the face.

Bad breath

Add five drops to 1/2 pt (300 ml) of watel and use as a mouthwash.