*More Links
Zazzle & Cafepress Stores
Online Shopping
Unique Sites
E-Greetings

Paypal
Information Contact
Prints Available

raineOn Merch Store

Disclaimer: Please consult with your physician, pharmacist, or health care provider before taking
any home remedies, supplements or following any treatment suggested on this blog. Only your
health care provider, personal physician, or pharmacist can provide you with advice on what is
safe and effective for your unique needs or diagnose your particular medical history.
May you discover what works for you,
be healed & free of pain.
                  Peppermint Oil :

Peppermint is a cross between watermint and spearmint, with a high menthol content. Historically, the herb has been known for its medicinal uses. It is often termed as the world’s oldest medicine.

Unlike many other herbs and essential oils, numerous health benefits of peppermint have been studied and proved by the scientific community.  As a result, peppermint oil is also sold in the form of capsules and tablets.

Peppermint contains minerals, vitamins and trace elements such as potassium, calcium, copper, iron, manganese, and vitamins A, B2 and C.

Peppermint has also been shown to retard the growth of many varieties of bacteria and fungi. It's thought to help relieve symptoms of allergies and asthma as well.

The health benefits of peppermint oil include the following:

Acne:
Peppermint is known to balance the PH levels of the skin which may help balance the production of excessive oils of the skin. Also the astringent, antiseptic and anti-inflammatory activity of Peppermint may help diminish the appearance of acne, black heads, rashes and redness. Simply mix 2 drops of Peppermint Oil into your regular face wash every morning and at night. One drop of the oil can also be mixed into a moisturizer and applied onto the affected area overnight for acne or skin rashes.

Headaches and Migraines:
According to researchers, Peppermint has vasodilatory effects which may help in the dilation of constricted blood vessels, one of the common triggers of headaches and migraines. When you feel a light headache or migraine is coming on, apply a small amount of Peppermint oil on the temples, forehead and back of the neck to help alleviate the pains. If any kind of irritation occurs, Peppermint Oil should be diluted in extra virgin olive oil. Mix 3-4 drops of Peppermint Oil into one tablespoon of olive oil. Based on the sensitivity level olive oil amount can be increased.

Head Lice: 
Peppermint is known to be a natural insect repellent. Therefore, applying Peppermint Oil thoroughly into the hair for about 30 minutes before taking a shower may help get rid of head lice. This should be repeated three times a week. If you experience any skin irritation, you can try diluting the Peppermint oil with a small amount of olive oil.

Indigestion: 
Peppermint oil is very helpful in digestion. Often people put a few drops of peppermint oil in a glass of water and drink it after their meal due to its digestive properties. It is carminative and therefore helps in removing gas. Peppermint is a good tonic for those who have a low appetite. It also helps during motion sickness and upset stomach. Preliminary research has proved that peppermint oil in the combination of caraway oil can be used for treating heartburn.

Dental Care:
Peppermint, due to its antiseptic properties, is useful for dental care. It is also useful for treating toothaches.

Respiratory Problems:
Menthol, which is present in abundance in peppermint oil, helps in clearing the respiratory tract. It is an effective expectorant and therefore provides instantaneous, though temporary,
relief in numerous respiratory problems including nasal congestion, sinusitis, asthma, bronchitis, cold and cough. As a result, it is used in numerous cold rubs. When these cold rubs are rubbed on the chest, they remove nasal and respiratory congestion immediately.

Irritable Bowel Syndrome:
A few studies have shown that enteric-coated Peppermint capsules or fresh Peppermint leaves may relieve IBS symptoms. It can also relax the gastro-esophageal sphincter that may help with bloating, gas and indigestion by promoting burping and belching. For IBS, taking 1-2 enteric-coated peppermint capsules twice daily may be beneficial. The enteric-coated capsules don't release peppermint in the stomach but delay the release of menthol until it reaches the small intestine. Large amounts of menthol in the stomach can cause irritation and acidic reaction in the stomach. The carminative properties of Peppermint may help with indigestion, bloating, flatulence and upset stomach. Simply drinking one cup of peppermint tea 2-3 times daily may be helpful. If you have heartburn or are being treated for acid reflux or GERD, do not take peppermint.

Menstrual Cramps:
Peppermint is known to relax constricted muscles. Therefore, drinking one cup of Peppermint tea 2-3 times daily during the menstrual cycle may help soothe menstrual cramps.
 

Pain Relief:
Peppermint has analgesic and anti-inflammatory activity which may help with muscular pains and arthritis. Simply apply Peppermint Oil onto the affected area 2 to 3 times daily. In case of any kind of skin irritation, Peppermint Oil can be diluted into extra virgin olive oil. For strained muscles after strenuous workouts or sports, adding 6-10 drops of Peppermint Oil into warm bath water can relax and soothe strained muscles.
 

Sinusitis and Colds:
The decongestant, expectorant, antiviral and astringent properties of Peppermint may help soothe sore
throats and relieve dry cough, cold and nasal congestion. For nasal congestion, sinusitis, cold, flu and asthma, drinking peppermint tea and inhaling its vapors from the tea may help. Simply steep one teaspoon
of peppermint leaves in a boiling cup of water for 5-8 minutes. Strain out the leaves and add honey for sweetness if desired. Drink this tea and inhale the vapors from it while drinking 2-3 times daily. For dry coughs drinking Peppermint tea and massaging Peppermint oil on the chest two to three times daily may
help since the Menthol in Peppermint thins the mucus, lubricates the respiratory tract and helps bring
out the thick and dried phlegm from the lungs and bronchi.
 

Stress and Anxiety:
Recent studies have shown that aromatherapy using peppermint oil may help relieve anxiety, stress, emotional imbalance and stress-induced headaches or migraines. Simply light Peppermint essential oil in
a diffuser or burner and relax in an easy chair nearby for 30 minutes. While you are inhaling peppermint aroma, breathe in through the nose and out the mouth and let your body loosen and relax. Listening to any of your favorite natural spa music can add to the relaxation. Repeat this aromatherapy at least 3 times a weak.

Immune System:
Peppermint oil increases your immunity to diseases and therefore helps you in preventing a number of diseases.

Blood Circulation:
It also improves blood circulation.

Hair Care:
Peppermint oil is very useful for hair care as it gives a cooling effect to the head, and removes dandruff.

What are the Side Effects of Peppermint?

Peppermint or its oil should not be consumed if you are being treated for gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), heartburn, acid reflux, hiatal hernia, and gallstones. It is not recommended for infants, or women who are pregnant or breastfeeding. Peppermint should be avoided if you are taking cyclosporine or any other medication for preventing the rejection of transplants. It is advised to regulate your blood sugar and blood pressure levels when taking Peppermint therapeutically for longer periods because it may lower blood sugar or blood pressure levels. To avoid any kind of skin irritation or allergic reaction it is recommended to do a skin test before applying it for therapeutic purposes. If any kind of irritation occurs, stop using Peppermint Oil or try diluting it into extra virgin olive oil.