PEPPERMINT ESSENTIAL OIL

Mentha piperita

Mints are sobering and clear headed herbs, aloof, even. In mythology they are descended from a nymph called Mentha, who had surrendered to Pluto's desires. His jealous wife Persephone (or according to some accounts, her mother Demeter), disgusted and enraged, stomped the poor nymph into the ground and punished her with infertility. Peppermint is a hybrid between common Garden Mint and Watermint and is indeed sterile. She reproduces by means of creeping rhizomes - and rather prolifically at that. Peppermint and has been used for food and medicine for millennia; from China to Egypt, evidence of its use goes back thousands of years. It is still a popular herbal home remedy and provides flavouring for dozens of products from chewing gum to chocolate and cigarettes, to name but a few. Peppermint oil is excellent for keeping creepy crawlies in check. Mice, rats, cockroaches and ants all detest the scent. A few drops on their pathways will surely deter them.

Traditional
In aromatherapy, Peppermint is mostly used as a digestive aid, to ally nausea and travel sickness, and to relieve cramps and colics. It aids PMT related symptoms, such as bloating or abdominal pains. It is also used to decongest the upper respiratory tract and to clear stuffiness, catarrh and sinus headaches, sinusitis and bronchitis. It can also be used as a cooling oil for sore muscles, rheumatism, arthritis or painful joints. The cooling property is also very pleasant as a treatment for sunburn. It refreshes the mind and combats exhaustion and lack of concentration. This oil needs to be very carefully dosed lest one ends up shivering with cold. Caution: Not recommended during first 4 months of pregnancy.

Magical
Peppermint can be used to help keep one's 'cool'. It clears the mind and aids concentration for study and helps focussing on one's intent. It can be used for protection and cleansing rituals. It clears the air of lingering emotions and cuts through irrational fears or attachments. It is a good oil for seeking direction and mental clarity.

Scent
A fresh, green, sweet, camphor-like, 'minty' scent. Blends well with - Basil, Cedar, Cypress, Eucalyptus, Marjoram, Pine, Rosemary, Thyme, Black Pepper, Fennel, Ginger, Lemon and Lemongrass.

Synonyms
Mint

Country of origin
India