Peppermint - Cooling Refresher

Before starting on my essential oil journey, I had no idea just how crazy useful Peppermint essential oil is. I thought it was nice that they included it in the Premium Starter Kit because it would smell yummy and fresh, but I've come to realize that it is truly a necessary oil to have on hand for general wellness purposes. It is one of the principal ingredients in my oh so favorite soothing blend, PanAway, which I have used successfully to calm menstrual cramps. One of the most common uses for Peppermint is aiding healthy digestion, which is why it is also a principal ingredient in Young Living's digestive support blend: DiGize. Once, when my mother-in-law was feeling nauseous I asked if she would like me to diffuse Peppermint and she loved it! I often take it diluted in a veggie capsule to calm my stomach. It can even be found in Young Living's respiratory support blend, R.C. because it can support healthy and clear breathing. The list of Young Living blends and personal care products that include Peppermint is virtually endless because it's so useful in a daily wellness regimen.

Young Living says: "Peppermint (Mentha piperita) is one of the oldest and most highly regarded herbs for supporting normal digestion, including promoting healthy intestinal function and gastrointestinal system comfort.*"

This oil is generally regarded as safe for human consumption by the FDA - just be sure to dilute it because it is so strong. Because it's strong it is NOT generally recommended for pregnant women or infants younger than 18 months, but there are many gentler substitutes such as Spearmint, Lemon, Lavender, and Ginger essential oils. Many have found it to be an excellent aid in both digestion and healthy weight management. It is also commonly used to soothe discomfort, cool, relieve itching, and to improve energy and concentration.The list of uses goes on and on.

"Purifying and stimulating to the conscious mind. Research indicates that peppermint aroma, inhaled during mental tasks, may help attention, performance, and focus (Barker, et al., 2003). Peppermint  may also be an effective appetite suppressant when inhaled (Hirsch and Gomez, 1995). University of Kiel researchers found that peppermint lessened" occasional head tension "in a double-blind, placebo-controlled, cross-over study" (Essential Oils Pocket Reference, 103).

Specific Blends & Uses:

• Diffuse or combine in a roll-on blend or veggie capsule with Frankincense, Copaiba, and Lemon to soothe discomfort, cool, boost the immune system, and support healthy digestion.
• Diffuse, take in a veggie capsule, or add to a beverage with Lemon to energize and support emotional balance.
• Diffuse or ingest with Lavender and Lemon to calm, support restful sleep, and support the respiratory and digestive systems.
• Diffuse or ingest with Thieves to support respiratory health and boost the immune system.
• Diffuse with Purification to purify the air and eliminate undesirable odors.
• Diffuse or combine in a roll-on blend with Stress Away to support emotional balance, focus, and energy.
• Combine with Copaiba and Lavender in epsom salt for a rejuvenating, soothing bath.
• Combine with Thieves, Purification, and Melaleuca (Tea Tree) or Melrose to create a powerful, air freshening and cleaning spray.

Peppermint is an essential oil that you really only need to try once to be convinced. Email me at rach.dorian@gmail.com to learn more.

*Disclaimer: This post is NOT intended as medical advice of any kind because I am not a doctor. These statements have not been tested or evaluated by the FDA and so they are NOT intended to cure, treat, or prevent disease. Essential Oils only help your body to do what it was meant to do, like nutritional supplements. Caution should be exercised with first time oil use - skin patch tests prior to use and dilution with carrier oil - especially in children. Children, especially under the age of 6, should never ingest essential oils without advice of a healthcare professional since they are concentrated and potent. If you are under the care of a physician, nursing, taking prescription medication, or pregnant please consult your doctor prior to use. Keep essential oils out of reach of children.