Profile: Peppermint Essential Oil

Peppermint (Mentha × piperita) is a native of the Mediterranean but was brought to the USA in the early 19th century. England was one of the best peppermint-producing areas in the world in the 18th and 19th centuries, but the USA is now considered to be the world's largest producer of peppermint; however, the use of peppermint essential oil in aromatherapy is a comparatively small percentage of the overall worldwide output of peppermint. It is also cultivated in Argentina, Brazil, France, Italy, Morocco, Bulgaria, Holland, Spain, Germany, India, Japan, and Great Britain.

Peppermint is a perennial herb that grows up to 1m (3 ft) high and has slightly hairy serrated leaves with pinkish-mauve flowers arranged in a long conical shape. Peppermint has underground runners by which it easily propagates. It will spread and take over a flower/herb garden. I recommend planting peppermint plants in pots. Peppermint (M.× piperita) is a hybrid of watermint (M. aquatica) and spearmint (M. spicata).

Evidence of use was found in Egypt in a tomb dating back to 1000 BC. The Romans used peppermint for digestive problems and also wore garlands of peppermint. It has been used extensively in both Eastern and Western medicine for problems such as nausea, headaches, toothaches, cramp, diarrhea, sore throats, and indigestion.

Peppermint essential oil has excellent choleretic properties (increases bile production). Peppermint oil and two common essential oil constituents, limonene and geranyl acetate, were tested for their effect on bile secretion in rats. The results indicated that peppermint oil exhibited the strongest choleretic activity.

Peppermint essential oil is used as an analgesic, decongestant, and digestive aid. It is very strong in its aroma and warming when applied to skin and should be diluted in a carrier oil before application. This is due to its high level of menthol which is a heating chemical. It is a clear, thin liquid oil and smells strongly of mint.

The essential oil of peppermint has been used for headaches, muscle pain, and arthritis. Often, it is used in a blend for respiratory problems such as congestion and asthma. It stimulates peristalsis (movement) in the digestive tract which makes it useful in a blend for constipation.

Peppermint is often inhaled via a nasal inhaler or diffuser for congestion. Peppermint essential oil has been researched for its positive effects on IBS and cognitive improvement.

Caution: Peppermint essential oil is contraindicated for people with a history of atrial fibrillation. Peppermint essential oil should not be used with children under the age of six.