Peppermint essential oil is derived from the entire peppermint plant just before it starts to flower. Thus peppermint plant to be extracted could be dried or may also be fresh if steam distillation is done. Steam distillation is most likely the best process for extracting peppermint essential oil. The plant is believed to have originated from the Mediterranean but is now grown all over the world although it has also been said to have been cultivated in the Orient since 1000 B.C.

Basic Uses Of Peppermint Essential Oil

Peppermint essential oil is often used as an aromatherapy agent to elevate focus and mental agility as well as stimulate the inner workings of the mind. It is said to be able to ease mental fatigue and increase concentration of the individual or individuals who inhale its distinctive scent. The herbal extract which sharp smells has strong menthol smell that come across as fresh and refreshing. It actually helps individuals to think better and can also be used to help with a person in shock or is apathetic. As an aromatherapy scent, it is used not to calm or relax a person but instead to stimulate and invigorate a person.

Other peppermint essential oil uses are focused mainly on its property to cool the skin as well as reduce irritation, redness and swelling associated with certain irritants or skin disorders. Peppermint essential oil also helps to soothe and calm itchy or irritated skin. This essential oil also provides relief for upper respiratory illnesses or conditions such as clearing the sinuses, lessening chest jamming and unclogging a close nose.

Headaches and migraines can also be relieved by using peppermint essential oil as an aromatherapy component or directly applied and massaged on the head and temples. One might expect the headache or migraine to increase due to the peppermint essential oil benefit of stimulating the mind and invigorating the senses but it can actually relieve the pain of the migraine and headache. Vertigo can also be eased by smelling the peppermint essential oil directly from the container.

Peppermint essential oil can also help to ease a spastic colon and aid in regulating and enhancing the function of the digestive system by stimulating the gall bladder and regulating the production of bile. Peppermint essential oil is also great for babies colic, stomach cramps, nausea, dyspepsia and a bevy of other ailments connected to the digestive system. Rubbing or massaging it on the stomach pure or mixed with other essential oils work well.