Peppermint oil is used for medicinal purposes.
Evidence of peppermint oil as a medicinal cure-all dates back to ancient Egypt, Rome and Greece. Menthol, menthone and menthyl acetate, the key active components of the peppermint plant, are still prevalent in modern medications for irritable bowels, headaches, diarrhea and congestion, according to the University of Washington's Department of Family Medicine. Peppermint oil may also be known as balm mint or brandy mint.
Early Beginnings
According to Greek mythology, Pluto turned the nymph Mentha into a peppermint plant so she could be enjoyed and appreciated for many years to come. Today, the scientific name of the peppermint plant is Mentha piperita. Use of peppermint has been found in Egyptian tombs dating back from 1000 B.C. Ancient Japanese and Chinese people harvested peppermint for its curing properties.
Medical Uses
Indigestion, nausea, symptoms of the common cold, headaches and muscle pain have been soothed by the use of peppermint oil throughout the years. The herb also stimulates the senses, is an antiseptic to clean wounds, an expectorant to clear excessive mucus build-up and is used in aromatherapy treatments for depression and mental fatigue.
Plant Facts
Peppermint (Mentha piperita) is a hybrid of water mint and spearmint plants, according to the National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine. The perennial herb grows up to 3 feet in height and is found growing wild in North America and Europe, but originated in the Mediterranean.
Fun Fact
Peppermint oil soaked rags were used in the early 1900's to catch rats. The strong scent of the oil, combined with ferrets to chase the rodents, lured rats into cloth bags so they could be removed from homes and businesses. Peppermint oil is also a powerful insect repellent.
Forms of Oil
Capsules and small dosages of liquid peppermint oil are ingested or diluted with other oils and applied to the skin. As a topical treatment, peppermint oil cools and reduces inflammation from itching, sunburns, scabies and acne.
Warnings
Peppermint oil combined with antacids may cause heartburn and allergic reactions. Children under the age of seven and pregnant women shouldn't use peppermint oil. Ask a physician or pharmacist for drug interactions before supplementing any health regimen with peppermint oil.
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