Herb and Essential Oil of the Month - Peppermint

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Herb and Essential Oil of the Month - PeppermintMentha piperataPeppermint is the most popular member of the mint family. Its mellow scent helps most problems of the stomach. From nausea and vomiting to irritable bowel syndrome, it promotes digestion and soothes the lining of the stomach, relieving cramps and abdominal pain. This also provides relief for bloating, constipation, diarrhea and can help prevent gallstones.Peppermint is approved by the FDA as a natural remedy for the common cold. It is an ingredient in many cough remedies, nasal decongestants, inhalants and topical ointments. It reduces inflammation in the nasal passages and clears congestion and coughs related to colds and allergies. Drinking the tea or inhaling its menthol vapors can ease breathing and reduce symptoms of colds and seasonal allergies. A Peppermint spray will help cool the body when overheated due to fever. Aromatherapy UsageInhalation - For nausea, motion sickness, car sickness or hot flashes, carry a small bottle of Peppermint with you and inhale as needed. This is also good for asthma, bronchitis, dry cough and congestion.Skin Care - For acne, blackheads and breakouts. Add to cleansing cream or a wet cotton ball and apply directly to area of trouble. Use 15 drops oil to 1 oz lotion or cream.Tea - Steep 1 teaspoon of dried Peppermint 5 minutes. Drink after dinner to aid digestion. Drink 3-4 cups per day during bouts with colds, flu, bronchitis, allergies and headaches,Bath - Use for energizing baths and to relieve muscle aches and pains and skin irritations.Headache Relief - Apply directly to area of pain. Helps with nausea that comes with migraine pain. Massage - Excellent to stimulate muscles and to relieve pain. Provides a cool sensation to help with inflammation. Keep away from eyes.Dried Herb UsageThe leaves can be added to the bath for itching skin conditions, sore and over worked muscles and arthritis. Add 1 quart strong Peppermint tea that has cooled to your bath water.Peppermint tea is also good for indigestion, stomach cramps, cold and allergy symptoms, sore throats and as a mouth gargle. Add to culinary recipes, including green salads and fresh fruit salads. Pure Essential Oil UsagePeppermint is so nice when used on overworked feet and legs. Add to a foot bath or your favorite lotion. Apply directly on the forehead and temples or where it hurts to reduce headache pain.Controls chronic pain when massaged into the skin. Peppermint tricks the nerves: It stimulates those that produce a cool, soothing sensation and desensitizes those that pick up pain messages. Add to your favorite massage oil. Excellent combined with Lavender.Medicinal PropertiesAnalgesic, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, antiseptic, antispasmodic, antiviral, astringent, carminative, chologogue (stimulates flow of bile), emmenagogue, expectorant, febrifuge, hepatic, nervine, stomachic, vasoconstrictor and vermifuge.Peppermint also contains B vitamins, vitamin C and A, calcium, and potassium.Peppermint blends well with Rosemary, Lavender, Marjoram, Lemon, Eucalyptus and many others.Safety Considerations:

* While drinking Peppermint tea is safe, never ingest pure Peppermint essential oil. * Keep out of reach of children and do not give mint in any form to children under the age of 5. It can give them a choking feeling.* Avoid large doses if you're pregnant, it can relax the uterus.* May interfere with iron absorption

 

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