Guest guest Posted April 12, 2006 Report Share Posted April 12, 2006 Peppermint Oil Essential oil of peppermint, which is distilled from the leaves of the peppermint plant, has become one of the most popular oils in aromatherapy. The plant has been popular for its pungent flavor and its curative powers since the seventeenth century, when it may have been brought from the Orient by way of North Africa. In all its uses, peppermint oil is refreshing to the mind, body and spirit. The distinctive scent of peppermint essential oil can improve a person’s concentration and focus. The way this works is that the scent actually triggers the hippocampus, a part of the brain linked to memory. The oil relieves not only mental fatigue but also nausea and dizziness. As a healing oil, peppermint is both antiseptic and anesthetic because of its high proportion of menthol. Thus, the essential oil, when inhaled, is extremely effective for fighting respiratory infections, from colds to bronchitis and sinusitis. When diluted and applied to the skin, the oil soothes and cools. This oil is particularly useful with older children. For Fatigue If your mind is overtaxed and fatigued, you are likely to have trouble focusing and remembering. The good news is that you can reenergize your mind and memory by simply inhaling the gresh, pure scent of peppermint oil in an aromatic lamp. Combine peppermint oil with lemon oil for the greatest benefit. 8 drops of peppermint oil 5 drops of lemon oil Therapeutic Effect Peppermint oil has cooling, fever-reducing and antiseptic properties, largely due to high levels of menthol, which is an antibacterial and anesthetic. The oil helps cure colds, bronchitis and sinus infections. It also aids healthy digestion by increasing digestive, liver and gallbladder secretions and relaxes cramped intestinal muscles. Plus, the scent clears the mind and eases mental tension. For opening nasal passages The high menthol content of peppermint oil reduces inflammation in the nasal passages during a cold, opening them up and improving breathing. For focusing the mind Whenever you are weary and tense at the end of a taxing day, peppermint oil is a remedy that will revitalize you. It clears your thoughts and allows you to breathe deeply and freely again. For a cleansing sauna Regular visits to a sauna simulate the body’s own defenses. You can increase the detoxifying, fortifying effect of the sauna by adding a few drops of peppermint oil to the water poured on the sauna coals. For Fresh breath Peppermint oil is an excellent natural alternative to mouthwash. It has a disinfectant effect, inhibits infection and prevents cavities and gum disease, while combating bad breath at the same time. Extra Tip For motion sickness and nausea, place a few drops of peppermint oil on a cloth. Hold the cloth in front of your mouth and nose and breathe in deeply or a few seconds. Applications Packs and Compresses Cold packs with peppermint oil can reduce a fever. Mix 8 drops of peppermint oil and 1 tbsp. of vinegar in 1 qt. of cool water. Soak 2 packs in the mixture, wring them out and place them on the calves of your legs. Replace as often as necessary until the fever abates. A compress with peppermint oil relieves the symptoms of a sinus infection. Mic 5 drops of peppermint oil in 2 cups of warm water. Lay a small cloth dampened with the mixture across your nose and over your cheekbones. Breathe deeply, keeping your eyes closed. Beauty benefits Peppermint oil can help keep skin looking and feeling healthy. The oil reduces the oiliness that can produce skin blemishes. It is also known to help minimize the redness of broken capillaries by constricting the vessel walls. Mix the essential oil with a base oil before applying. For a cold, refreshing bath, add 2-4 drops of peppermint oil to a tub of tepid water. Caution Do not treat children with peppermint oil, since the high menthol content can irritate sensitive mucosa. If you have chills, avoid peppermint oil, because of its intense cooling perpertyies. Keep your eyes tightly shut when inhaling peppermint oil, as the vapors can irritate them. The oil may also irritate sensitive skin. Pregnant and nursing women should avoid using the oil altogether.. (Source Complete Guide to Natural Healing) Magickal Properties and Uses Purification, Psychic awareness, Protection, Money and Riches, Lust, Love, Healing and Health, Exorcism, Astrological: Aquarius (ruled by Saturn and Uranus), Virgo (ruled by Mercury), Gemini (ruled by Mercury),Aries (ruled by Mars) Element: Fire Planetary: Mars Hecate Incense 3 parts Sandalwood 2 parts Cypress 1 part Spearmint or Peppermint To honor Her, burn at a crossroads or during ritual at the waning of the Moon. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
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