Exclusive Guide to Peppermint Essential Oil
Mentha piperita L.
Origin: India
Distilled part: Whole plant
Extraction method: Steam distillation
Cultivation: Certified Organic farming
Botanically and Biochemically Defined Essential Oil (HEBBD), chemotyped (HECT)
Color: Colorless to pale yellow
Scent: Minty, fresh
Note: Top note
Plant Family: Lamiaceae
SUPER POWERS
Analgesic
- pain killer, reduces pain
Antibacterial
- kills bacterial growth or prevents bacteria from growing
Anti-infectious
- prevents or treats an infection
Anti-inflammatory
- reduces inflammation and swelling
Antiseptic
- prevents or combats bacterial infection
Antispasmodic
- prevents or relieves spasms
Antiviral
- kills or inhibits the growth of viruses
Carminative
- preventsor relieves flatulence; gas in the gastrointestinal tract
Cholagogue
- stimulates the flow of bile
When something stimulates the flow of bile, it means it encourages your liver to produce more bile or helps your gallbladder release the bile it has stored. Bile is a yellowish-green fluid made by your liver and stored in your gallbladder. It plays a crucial role in digestion by:
- Breaking down fats: Bile helps break down fats in your small intestine into smaller molecules that your body can absorb more easily.
-Aiding in nutrient absorption: Bile salts in bile help absorb certain vitamins, like vitamin A, D, E, and K, which are fat-soluble.
Eliminating waste products: Bile also helps eliminate waste products, such as cholesterol and bilirubin (a breakdown product of red blood cells), from your body through your stool.
So, by stimulating the flow of bile, you're essentially promoting smoother digestion and nutrient absorption.
Decongestant
- relieves a stuffy nose
Digestive
- improves the function of the stomach, increases appetite, and helps with digestion
Stimulant
- increases alertness of the mind, and boosts energy.
Tonic
- refreshes, revitalizes and invigorates body functions
USAGE TIPS
Focus & Concentration
Diffuse 4-10 drops of peppermint oil to improve mental clarity and concentration.
Aching Joints
Add 4 drops of peppermint oil to a hot compress and place it over the affected area for 10 minutes. Peppermint oil is effective in easing joint pain and reducing inflammation.
Flea & Insect Repellent
Add 10 drops of peppermint oil to a 200 ml spray bottle filled with water or Lavandin hydrosol.
Spray onto the upper and lower body to repel insects.
Rodents
If you have seen a mouse or rat around your house, place 2 drops of peppermint oil on a cotton ball and leave scattered around. Especially in places where there may be small mouse holes. Be careful not to leave them in places where they can be reached by children or pets.
Acne
If you have breakouts or acne, put 4-7 drops of peppermint in a steaming bowl of water and form a tent with a towel. Steam your face (important to keep your eyes completely shot!) Then rinse with cool water.
Hot Flashes
Add 10-12 drops of peppermint oil to a 300 ml spray bottle filled with water. Spray over your head and upper body to cool down and refresh the senses.
Dandruff
Add 5 drops of peppermint oil to your shampoo and wash thoroughly. Then, add 3 drops to your conditioner, massage it into your scalp, leave it on for 10-15 minutes, and rinse.
Itching or Sunburn
Mix 4 drops of peppermint oil with 2 teaspoons (10 ml) carrier oil, and massage into the affected area to relieve the itching from sunburn or rash. Do not use near your eyes.
Awaken the Senses
Add 2 drops of peppermint oil to your morning shower gel to stimulate and refresh your senses.
Motion Sickness
Mix 3 drops of peppermint oil with 1 teaspoon (5ml) of carrier oil, and massage into the abdomen in a clockwise direction.
Ticks
Place 1 drop of peppermint oil on a cotton bud and rub it around the area the tick has burrowed into your skin. This will cause til tick to poke its head out so you can remove it safely.
Muscular Aches and Pains
Peppermint oil helps to relieve pain, inflammation, and muscular spasms. Mix 5 drops of peppermint oil with 1 tablespoon (15 ml) carrier oil. Massage into the affected area.
Head lice
Head lice in school? Use 10 drops of Peppermint essential oil in the shampoo and massage well, then rinse. Repeat again in the day and every day, twice daily as needed. You can also put 4 drops of peppermint in the conditioner, and massage it on and leave it for 5 minutes before rinsing. Diffuse peppermint essential oil in your home, and in your child's bedroom during the day if they are there. Do not diffuse during the evening/night because it is a stimulant.
Food
Food flavoring (CoE n°: 282)
Food dosage: 1 drop in a dish for 5 people (never exceed 2%)
Always use essential oil diluted in a suitable medium (example: vegetable oil, honey, etc.)
Relieve Coughing
Add 3 drops of peppermint oil to a steam inhalation and inhale deeply for 2-3 minutes, taking breaks as needed. Peppermint oil helps to clear respiratory passages and reduce mucus.
Exercise
Place 2 drops on a tissue and inhale regularly before exercising. Alternatively, mix 4 drops with 1 teaspoon (5ml) of carrier oil and massage into your chest and shoulders. Using peppermint oil before a workout can leave you feeling energized and motivated.
Headache
Add 2 drops of peppermint oil to 1 teaspoon (5ml) of carrier oil, and massage into the temples and back of the neck to help relieve the pain. Keep your eyes closed.
Mouth Rinse
Peppermint leaves a refreshing, clean feeling in the mouth. Add 2 drops of peppermint oil to a small amount of water, and use as a mouth rinse. Do not swallow.
Smelly Feet
Add 3 drops of peppermint oil to 1 teaspoon (5ml) of jojoba oil, and massage into the soles of the feet. You can also place 1-2 drops of peppermint oil inside the shoes.
Tired, Sore Feet
Add 4 drops of peppermint oil to a foot bath with warm water and soak your feet for 20 minutes. The peppermint oil will help reduce swelling and relieve pain.
Helps Reduce Allergy Symptoms
Peppermint oil is great for relaxing the muscles in your nasal passages and clearing out mucus and pollen during allergy season. You can diffuse 5 drops, inhale it directly from the bottle, or dilute 2-3 drops in 1 teaspoon (5ml) of carrier oil and apply it to your forehead, neck, and chest.
Method of use & Amount to use
Aroma diffusers
Use 5-15 drops in your diffuser or the amount suggested with your diffuser.
Baths, Hot tubs, Jacuzzis
Bath: Diluted 3-8 drops
Start by running your bath as you normally would and keep the bathroom door closed to retain the aroma. Essential oils can be applied directly in their concentrated form or diluted.
For dilution, use a carrier oil, milk, milk powder, vegetable glycerin, seaweed powder, herbal powder, baking soda, salt, or Epsom salts to prevent skin sensitivity.
Add the essential oil to the bathwater, either neat or diluted, then stir the water with your hand to disperse the oil evenly before entering the tub. This method helps distribute the essential oil throughout the bath for a more enjoyable experience.
Hot tubs & Jacuzzis: up to 8 drops
Mix the essential oil into the water thoroughly using your hand. Since essential oils do not dissolve in water, they may leave residues in or around your pipes.
Compresses
3-10 drops in 120 ml of water
Learn more
Face masks, oils, and tonic
Face masks: 1 or 2 drops per 2 tbs. (15ml) of natural facemask.
Face oils: 12 drops in 30ml of carrier oil. For elderly and children use 6 drops per 30ml of carrier oil.
Use a dark-colored glass bottle, which helps protect your oils from light degradation. First, pour in the carrier oil. If you’re using a single essential oil or a premixed blend, add it directly to the carrier oil. If you’re crafting your own unique blend, mix your essential oils together first, then integrate the desired number of drops into the carrier oil. Remember, a little goes a long way, so only use a small amount for each application. Click here to read more about which carrier oil to choose.
Face tonic: 8-15 drops in 100ml of spring or distilled water or hydrosol.
Combine the oil and water before filtering through an unbleached paper coffee filter.
Our 100% organic and natural hydrosols can be used directly as a tonic. Shut your eyes and spray your face. Or spray a cotton pad and wipe your face with it.
Inhalation from bowl
3-5 drops per bowl of steaming hot water.
To use essential oils in steam inhalation, start by bringing a pot of water to a boil and then removing it from the heat. Add a few drops (typically 3-5 drops) of your chosen essential oil to the hot water.
Carefully lean over the pot, drape a towel over your head and the pot to trap the steam, and breathe deeply for several minutes to inhale the aromatic vapors, which can help relieve nasal congestion and other respiratory issues.
Lotions & Creams
12 drops to each 30 ml of natural, unfragranced lotion or cream.
You can make your own face cream with our neutral face cream as a base. For a 2% (adults) dilution use 40 drops in this 100 ml cream base.
For elderly and children use 20 drops (1%) in 100ml of cream.
Massage oil (for body)
12 drops to each 30 ml of carrier oil.
For elderly and children use 6 drops per 30ml of carrier oil.
Pillows
Place 1-3 drops of essential oil on the corner or underside of a pillow away from the eyes.
Room sprays
As room purifier: 10-20 drops per 475 ml of water.
As a general fragrance: 8-10 drops per 475 ml of water.
Scalp treatments
Add 6 drops in 15 ml of Jojoba oil or aloe vera gel. Shake well. Use 2-3 drops of your prepared blend for each application. Massage into your scalp. Alternatively, simply add the essential oil to a bottle of final rinse water after washing the hair.
Shampoos
5-10 drops in 100ml.
Essential oils can be added to any unscented shampoo that is composed of organic natural ingredients.
Showers
1-5 drops.
First, complete your usual washing routine. After that, apply a few drops of essential oil onto a washcloth or sponge and briskly rub it over your body while standing under the shower's running water. Inhale deeply through your nose to enjoy the aromatic steam, being careful to avoid applying the oil on your face and sensitive areas.
Sprays & Mists for Face and Body
For body: 10-20 drops to each 475 ml of water or hydrosol.
For face: 2-5 drops to each 240 ml of water or hydrosol.
Add the essential oil to warm water or hydrosol. Shake thoroughly, pour through an unbleached paper coffee filter, and place in a spray bottle. Cool before using.
Shake before each use.
Keep eyes closed when spraying the face.
Washes
15-32 drops in 240 ml of warm water.
A wash is a prepared mixture for washing infected areas such as cuts, grazes, and wounds.
Mix the essential oils and water together in a bottle and shake well. Keep it stored in the fridge for no longer than 14 days. Shake before each use.
Aromatherapy's top notes:
Aromas categorized as top notes are typically fresh and light with a sharp scent. They evaporate very quickly and possess antiseptic properties. These qualities make them uplifting for the mood and emotions, ideal for times when you need a quick energy boost. Top notes are also excellent for purification, such as when you're dealing with a cold. Consider each oil's unique properties when selecting which ones to use in a blend.
Examples of typical top notes include:
Citrus oils:
- Bergamot
- Lemon
- Lemongrass
- Orange
- Neroli
- Petitgrain
Mint oils:
- Peppermint
- Spearmint
Fresh woody oils:
- Eucalyptus
- Tea Tree
- Pine
These top notes are perfect for enhancing your blends with their vibrant and cleansing effects.
Understand the Notes of Scents
In aromatherapy, the scent of an oil is often referred to as a "note." The secret behind a truly great fragrance is finding the perfect balance between the notes. Aromatherapy is about scents, and with practice, you will be able to recognize an oil's fragrance even if you might not know which plant the oil comes from. For example, you will be able to distinguish between citrus and floral scents or woody and minty fragrances. The scent is determined by the chemicals an oil contains. Because oils that smell alike often contain the same chemicals, they typically have similar properties.
Oils are categorized into so-called base, middle, and top notes. Knowing an oil's note is important when blending oils. A good blend—like most perfumes—normally contains a mix of all three notes, where the ratio between them varies depending on what the blend is used for. Additionally, an oil can contain more than one note—for example, ylang-ylang contains traces of all three notes and is often considered the perfect fragrance.
When creating a new fragrance, whether it's for a perfume or an aroma diffuser, you should use between 4-7 oils per blend. First, decide what type of blend you want to create, such as a refreshing one, and then choose notes with these characteristics to make up the main content of the blend. Dissolve the mixture in a carrier oil if you want to use it on the skin (12 drops in 30 ml of carrier oil).
| Blend | Top note | Middle note | Base note |
|---|---|---|---|
| Refreshing | 5 drops | 4 drops | 1 drop |
| Relaxing | 1 drop | 6 drops | 3 drops |
| Sensual | 1 drop | 4 drops | 5 drops |
| Balancing | 2 drops | 5 drops | 3 drops |
| Energizing | 8 drops | 1 drop | 1 drop |
LAMIACEAE PLANT FAMILY
Peppermint is part of the Lamiaceae Plant Family
The Lamiaceae family, is a distinguished group in the botanical world, renowned for its aromatic members which are frequently utilized in both culinary and therapeutic contexts. This family includes some of the most beloved herbs and essential oils that are staples in both kitchens and aromatherapy practices.
Habitat and Climate Preferences
Lamiaceae plants are versatile and can be found in a variety of climates, thriving particularly well in temperate regions. They typically prefer sunny locations and well-drained soils. Despite their resilience, these plants flourish in Mediterranean climates where conditions of warm, dry summers and mild winters provide an ideal environment for growth. This adaptability also extends to higher altitudes in the tropics, where several species can often be found.
Regional Adaptations
Globally, members of the Lamiaceae family are widespread. In Europe, herbs like lavender, sage, and thyme are cultivated extensively and have become synonymous with the culinary landscape of the region. North America hosts a variety of native and naturalized species of mint and other Lamiaceae, adapting well to the diverse climates across the continent. Similarly, in Asia, particularly in regions like India, herbs such as basil and patchouli are integral to both the local aromatic profiles and traditional medicine.
Culinary and Aromatic Qualities
The Lamiaceae family's connection to the digestive process is embodied in their common use as culinary herbs. Herbs like basil, oregano, and marjoram are not just flavor enhancers; they also aid in digestion and can alleviate various gastrointestinal discomforts. Their robust, often fiery fragrances stimulate the senses and can reawaken a sense of vitality, making them popular in essential oil form for therapeutic use.
Other Examples of Essential Oils
from the Lamiaceae Plant Family
- Basil and Oregano: Known for their bold, warm flavors in cooking, these oils also offer antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties.
- Lavender, Lavandin and Spike Lavender: Used for relaxation and Sleep, skin care, stress and anxiety relief, cleaning products, and pain relief to mention a few.
- Rosemary and Sage: Both are thought to improve memory and cognitive function, in addition to being powerful antioxidants.
- Thyme: Its oil is potent in antibacterial and antiviral properties, making it a strong ally during cold and flu season.
- Melissa (Lemon Balm): Known for its soothing properties, it is used to ease stress and help with sleep.
- Patchouli: Often associated with skin care, it also helps in grounding and balancing the emotions.
The Lamiaceae plant family stands out not only for its culinary importance but also for its substantial role in natural health practices. Whether grown in a garden, wild in nature, or distilled into essential oils, these plants continue to impart their invigorating and healing qualities to those who know how to harness their power. The versatility and widespread appeal of the Lamiaceae family make it a foundational element in both traditional and modern herbal practices.
Peppermint Blends Well With These Essential Oils
Angelica seed, basil linalol, bergamot, cananga, chamomile german, clove bud, cypress, eucalyptus lemon, eucalyptus radiata, geranium, grapefruit, juniper berry, lavender, lavender spike, lemon, lemongrass, lime, marjoram sweet, myrtle, niaouli, orange sweet, oregano, petitgrain, pine, ravensara, ravintsara, rosemary, spruce black, tangerine, tea tree, thyme linalol, ylang ylang
The Main Chemical Composition of Peppermint Essential Oil
Peppermint essential oil is composed of several key chemical constituents that contribute to its therapeutic properties. The main components include:
- Menthol (30-50%): Menthol is the primary active ingredient in peppermint oil, responsible for its cooling sensation and analgesic (pain-relieving) properties. It also has antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory effects.
- Menthone (15-30%): Menthone is another significant component that provides a minty aroma. It has similar properties to menthol, including analgesic and antimicrobial effects.
- 1,8-Cineole (Eucalyptol) (3-8%): This component is known for its ability to help clear respiratory passages and has anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties.
- Menthyl Acetate (3-5%): This ester contributes to the sweet, fruity aspect of peppermint's aroma and has mild soothing properties.
- Limonene (1-5%): Limonene adds a citrusy note to the oil and possesses antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.
These chemical constituents work synergistically to provide the diverse range of benefits associated with peppermint essential oil, such as pain relief, respiratory support, antimicrobial action, and digestive aid.
What is a Chemotype in Essential Oils?
Chemotypes in essential oils refer to the different chemical compositions that can occur in the same plant species due to variations in their growing conditions, harvest times, or geographical locations. These variations lead to the production of essential oils with distinct chemical profiles, each possessing unique therapeutic properties. Understanding chemotypes is crucial for aromatherapy and medicinal applications, as the efficacy and safety of the oils can vary significantly based on their chemical makeup.
Here's a breakdown of what defines a chemotype and why it matters:
1. Genetic and Environmental Influences: A chemotype is often influenced by the plant's environment, such as altitude, climate, and soil composition, as well as genetic factors. These variables can affect which chemical compounds are predominant in the oil.
2. Chemical Composition: Each chemotype of an essential oil will have a dominant chemical compound or set of compounds that characterize it. For example, Rosemary essential oil can be found in several chemotypes, such as cineole, camphor, and verbenone, each named after its principal component, which dictates its therapeutic properties and uses.
3. Therapeutic Properties: The presence of different chemical compounds means that each chemotype can be more effective for different health concerns. For instance, the cineole chemotype of Rosemary is excellent for respiratory issues due to its expectorant properties, whereas the camphor chemotype is more suited for pain relief and circulatory problems.
4. Safety and Application: Some chemotypes may be safer or more appropriate for certain applications than others. For example, an essential oil chemotype high in ketones might be more neurotoxic and thus used with more caution, particularly around children or pregnant women.
Understanding chemotypes allows us to choose the most appropriate and effective essential oil for specific therapeutic outcomes, ensuring both safety and efficacy in their applications.
Peppermint is Safe to Diffuse around Dogs
Pet Safe
If you have dogs in the house, these are the recommendations on how to diffuse your essential oils in a safe way: only use 3-4 drops of a particular essential oil in a water based aroma diffuser (UltraSonic).
Use no more than 4-6 drops total if using more than one essential oil, or use the amount in the diffuser recipes.
Be sure your aroma diffuser is in an area where your pet cannot knock it over. Always diffuse in an open area with the door open so your dog can leave the room if desired.
If your dog is sensitive to an oil you are diffusing, stop diffusing and get your dog outside for some fresh air. Contact your veterinarian if you are concerned.
Storage
Essential oils are sensitive to UV: always keep them in their original bottles (amber glass with codigoutte).
We advise you to store them in a cool place without light after opening.
For your mixtures, cosmetic and culinary preparations, always use a new bottle to avoid interactions.
Disclaimer
This information is intended to educate and inform, and are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent disease. It is always recommended to consult with a healthcare professional or veterinarian before starting any regime with Essential Oils.
