Therapeutic Uses of Peppermint Oil And How it can Uplift Your Mood and Provide Mental Clarity

Think peppermint is only good for toothpaste and chocolate-coated candies? Think again. 

Peppermint oil, which is extracted from the leaves of the peppermint plant, is a substance that boasts a bevy of incredible therapeutic uses, from mood enhancement to headache reduction to improved physical performance. And it smells great, to boot!

In this post, we’ll explore the many science-backed therapeutic uses of peppermint oil so you can see for yourself why it deserves a coveted spot in your wellness routine. 

What Is Peppermint Oil?

Peppermint oil comes from the peppermint plant, which is a hybrid of two other plants: water mint and spearmint. 

Peppermint oil is made by extracting natural oils from the plant. This is done by heating it gently, then cooling the vapor generated. Peppermint oil has high concentrations of two key therapeutic ingredients: menthol and menthone. 

Therapeutic Uses of Peppermint Oil

Minty, invigorating peppermint oil isn’t just prized for its pleasant scent. It boasts a variety of therapeutic properties, too. 

As part of the folk medicine repertoire, peppermint goes way back. It’s said to have been used by ancient Greek physicians, and remnants of peppermint leaves were even discovered in Egyptian pyramids. 

These days, peppermint oil enthusiasts are quick to tout its many benefits, from improved mental clarity to headache reduction and pain relief. 

As it turns out, these benefits are the real deal, and there’s plenty of science to back them up. Let’s take a closer look at some of the specific therapeutic uses of peppermint oil: 

Reduces Muscle & Joint Pain

Muscle and joint pain is no joke. At best, it’s uncomfortable; at worst, it can be debilitating. Adding peppermint oil to your wellness repertoire could help relieve pain if you’re suffering from soreness. 

Peppermint is a natural analgesic, which means it can help relieve pain. According to one study, menthol, which is a key ingredient in peppermint oil, may help reduce pain. In the study, a single, 8-hour application of methyl salicylate and l-menthol provided noticeable relief of pain associated with muscle strain compared to those who received a placebo patch. 

Boosts Energy

Next time you’re feeling sluggish, instead of reaching for coffee or an energy drink, consider a gentler natural approach to revive your energy with peppermint oil. 

Don’t believe it? Consider this study, which makes a strong case for peppermint giving you a superhero boost. It monitored 12 male students, who consumed water with peppermint oil for ten days, then monitored their physical performance. 

The results showed marked improvement in physical performance. Why? The working theories are that the relaxation of bronchial smooth muscles, increase in ventilation, and decrease in the blood lactate level could play roles in the improved performance.

You don’t have to be an athlete to enjoy this increased energy: just incorporate some peppermint oil into your routine! 

Relieves Headaches

Throbbing temples, a pounding sensation behind the eyes...no doubt about it, headaches are a downer. Happily, peppermint oil is considered a great natural headache reliever. 

In one study designed to explore the neurophysiological effects of peppermint oil, 32 subjects were applied given one of four treatments on the forehead and temples. The findings reported that those treated with a peppermint oil mixture had “a significant analgesic effect with a reduction in sensitivity to headache”. 

Additionally, many of the other proven benefits of peppermint oil such as improved circulation and muscle relaxation can result in fewer ailments that can lead to headaches. 

Treats Respiratory Problems

Peppermint oil is a natural expectorant, which in simple terms means it will help you cough up or secrete matter that is causing congestion. 

But not only can it help you purge your body, it may also fight the root causes of sickness.

According to one study, “In vitro, peppermint has significant antimicrobial and antiviral activities, strong antioxidant and antitumor actions, and some anti allergenic potential.” 

Basically, this means that as it’s clearing your sinuses, it may also be helping to heal the underlying issue that is causing the problem too! 

Reduces Stress

If you’re feeling overwhelmed, stressed out, or spread too thin, peppermint oil can act as an all natural pick-me-up.

In one study, groups of volunteers were exposed to either lavender, peppermint, or a placebo oil. Then, saliva was collected to test for salivary cortisol (cortisol is called “the stress hormone”). 

After the test, the cortisol levels were significantly lower in the peppermint group, yet this was not the case in the other groups. These findings offer an optimistic view of peppermint oil’s ability to relieve stress! 

Stimulates Mental Clarity

Suffering brain fog? Peppermint oil could help: studies have shown that it can stimulate and improve mental clarity.

In one fascinating test, 144 volunteers were exposed to either ylang-ylang, peppermint, or no aroma, and then tested based on their cognitive performance. The analysis showed that peppermint was shown to enhance cognitive function, while ylang-ylang actually slowed down cognitive function. 

A study released by the University of Cincinnati, aptly called “The Effect of Peppermint on Memory Performance”, shared some interesting notes on peppermint research, including: 

• An American Journal of Psychology article reported that in recall tests with patients, there was a distinct cognitive function in those participants who were exposed to peppermint during the learning and testing phases. 

• In The Journal of Molecular Neuroscience, an article suggests that peppermint can actually preserve the microglia in the central nervous system, a side effect of which could be improved cognitive function. 

 

Where Can You Buy Peppermint Oil? 

Peppermint oil is not difficult to find. However, just because it’s readily available mean that you should go ahead and purchase just any peppermint oil. It’s worth taking the time to find a high quality product to maximize the potential benefits of this incredible substance. 

At ArtNaturals, we strive to source pure and unaltered oils. Every single oil batch that we receive is tested independently, authenticated, and a GC report (a benchmark test for testing essential oils) is published for each batch number. Any GC results that come back with notes that reflect impurities is rejected and returned to the supplier! 

That is to say: you can rest assured that ArtNaturals peppermint oil is the highest quality we can possibly source! 

 

How to Use Peppermint Oil

Want to let peppermint oil work its magic in your world but don’t know how to get started? Here’s a quick guide to some easy ways to add peppermint oil into your wellness routine:

• Essential oil: Add several drops to your diffuser. Or, combine 5 drops peppermint and 6 drops of eucalyptus for an energizing and uplifting blend.

• Sugar scrub: Make your skin shine with an easy DIY sugar scrub! Combine ½ cup granulated sugar with ½ cup coconut or jojoba oil, 5 drops of peppermint, and ½ teaspoon vanilla extract. 

• Cleaning spray: Combine 25 drops of peppermint oil with 15 drops of eucalyptus, 15 drops of lemon, ¾ cup distilled water, and ¼ cup grain alcohol in an 8-ounce spray bottle. 

Safety and Shelf Life 

Peppermint oil is intended for topical and aromatic uses only. Do not use on children, pets, or if pregnant. Peppermint oil may cause irritation of the skin or mucous membrane. For topical use, use a 1-2% dilution. 

Peppermint can raise blood pressure, and is contraindicated in case of cardiac fibrillation and for G6PD deficiency. Oxidized, older oil can increase potential skin irritation. Always test for skin sensitivity before using. Do not ingest orally and keep out of eyes, ears and nose. 

Shelf Life: Stored in a cool, dark environment, peppermint oil has a shelf life of approximately 2 years after opening.  

The Final Word on Peppermint Oil 

With its invigorating, refreshing scent and many proven health benefits, peppermint oil is a functional and pleasurable addition to your wellness repertoire. To recap: 

• Peppermint oil comes from the peppermint plant, which is a hybrid of two other plants: water mint and spearmint. 

• Peppermint oil is made by extracting natural oils from the plant. This is done by heating it gently, then cooling the vapor generated.

• Peppermint oil’s many science-backed benefits include improved energy, increased mental clarity, and a reduction of muscle pain and headaches. 

• Peppermint oil can be used as an essential oil, a beauty product, and even a cleaning product! 

• For best results, use a high quality peppermint oil such as ArtNaturals peppermint oil. 

How have you incorporated peppermint oil into your wellness routine?