Peppermint oil is one of the most versatile and commonly used essential oils. A cross between watermint and spearmint, peppermint has a long tradition of medicinal use and it has a strong, clean, fresh and minty aroma. There are many ways to use peppermint oil in your daily life.
Ways to Use Peppermint Oil:
1) Bug repellent: Add 30 drops of peppermint oil and 12 ounces of water to a spray bottle and shake. Spray around your doorways and windows to keep spiders and other insects at bay. You can also spray this mixture directly onto your skin before going outside to keep from being bitten by mosquitoes. You may feel a slight tingling, but this is normal.
2) Relieve headaches: Migraine sufferers will be happy to hear that peppermint oil can actually give them some relief. Peppermint oil has actually been known to relieve both migraines and tension headaches. Simply rub a drop or two of peppermint oil into the temples, the forehead and the back of the neck (anywhere you feel pressure).
3) Increase concentration: Research has found that the smell of peppermint helps improve concentration. To make yourself more alert, just put the bottle of essential oil under your nose and sniff! Studying for a test? Keep a bottle of peppermint oil at hand or dip some incense sticks into essential oil and keep the concentration flowing!
4) Open up your sinuses: Peppermint essential oil can help relieve some symptoms of sinus congestion. Simply inhale, using a steam inhalation. Add a few drops of peppermint essential oil to water and bring to a boil. When the water boils, place a towel over your head. Bend over the pan and breathe in the steam. This will provide your sinuses with that cooling action they need and bring you a feeling of air flowing through your nose.
5) Boost flavor: Pure peppermint essential oil is actually edible and can be used to flavor things like chocolates, desserts, teas, coffees and baked goods. Make sure that you are using diluted, food-grade essential oil, though, as this is the only type that is edible. Add just a few drops, as a little goes a long way.
6) Freshen your breath: Again, since it is edible, you can place a drop of peppermint essential oil on your tongue to freshen your breath. It works to treat bad breath naturally, and works better than any breath mint, because there is no sugar added!
7) Add to your bath: Adding essential oils to your bath is a simple and effective aromatherapy treatment. Peppermint essential oil is perfect for stimulating and revitalizing the body, especially after a tough workout.
8) Cure motion sickness and nausea: If you suffer from motion sickness or nausea, simply place a drop of peppermint essential oil on the end of your tongue, behind your ears, or around your navel. You can also inhale it for instant relief. Those who are pregnant should not use essential oils.
9) Improve digestion: To soothe digestive issues, add a drop of peppermint oil to a cup of tea or water and drink. Simple and easy!
Sources:
https://www.organicfacts.net/
http://www.webmd.com/
Related reading: Top 11 Excellent Uses for Lavender Oil
