Just say the word peppermint and the first thing most people think of is Christmas and the red and white stripes on a candy cane. Cherished for its refreshing flavor, what healers, herbalists and cosmeticians have known for centuries is that peppermint offers more than just culinary benefits; the uses of peppermint oil extend into medicinal, restorative and cosmetic areas as well. As far back as 1500 BC, people living in the regions of northern Africa and the Mediterranean were discovering many uses of peppermint oil, using it as an herbal remedy for a variety of conditions. Researchers have found peppermint mentioned in several ancient texts, including the Bible, where it was considered so valuable by the Egyptians it was traded as currency.

What is peppermint oil good for?

Recently, the holistic health benefits of peppermint oil have been coming to the forefront more and more. Peppermint oil contains Omega-3 fatty acids, iron, magnesium, calcium, and Vitamins A and C and when rubbed into the skin, the uses of peppermint oil are reported to relieve many          conditions, including:

• Upset stomachs
• Headaches and migraines
• Sore joints and muscles
• Allergies
• Cold symptoms
• Lethargy

The anti-spasmodic properties of peppermint oil make it a wonderful addition to massage oil. It helps calm tired muscles in a cool and refreshing way. Peppermint oil during massage also helps loosen mucous tissues, aiding in the relief of asthma, bronchitis and sleep troubles. Peppermint oil can also subdue apathetic feelings, resulting in feelings of peace, positive energy and hopefulness. Peppermint oil’s antiseptic nature makes it helpful to those suffering from acne or other skin irritations as it cleans and tighten pores. The uses of peppermint oil in shampoo and soap provides renewing stimulation to the scalp and skin. By diffusing or spraying the scent of peppermint throughout the air, its invigorating aroma acts as the perfect pick-me-up for that late afternoon slump, on long drives or anytime you need to feel re-energized or want to improve concentration. Inhaling this scent also helps curb appetite.

Peppermint Essential Oil for Throat Chakra

The throat chakra is associated with self-expression and communication. Using peppermint oil, with its cooling and rejuvenating properties, is especially beneficial for clarifying the throat chakra and clearing the channels of communication. Also, peppermint essential oil is considered a chakra “balancer,” able to calm the stomach and spleen chi as well.

How to Use Peppermint Oil

Common uses of peppermint oil:

• Inhale peppermint essential oil to soothe the stomach and nerves
• Spray peppermint oil on the clothes of those doing homework to increase focus and concentration
• Rub peppermint essential oil on the temples to relieve headaches
• Rub peppermint essential oil into the shoulders during the day to keep energy high
• Spray peppermint oil on tired, overheated feet for cooling relief

Peppermint oil blends well with a variety of other aromatherapy essential oils such as lavender, marjoram, rosemary and eucalyptus. The Rejuvenate Massage & Body Oil and Throat Chakra Spray from Ja’Mi Products use peppermint oil in their ingredients to help achieve the most invigorating and healing benefits.