Peppermint through the Ages

The unmistakable scent of Mentha piperita (Peppermint) is powerful and vibrant and is synonymous with crisp, cool cleanliness. The mentol scented plant has been used in many different industries over the centuries and is most often used in enhancing flavours in food, beverages and confectionary, pharmaceuticals and cosmetic applications. It is also popular in oral products such as toothpaste, mouth wash and chewing gum as the flavour provides a fresh, lively sensation.

The earliest recorded use of peppermint dates back to the 1st century AD where Romans utilised the herb as a flavour for sauces and wine. The Ancient Greek physicians used peppermint in the treatment of a variety of mild ailments. The Eygptians cultivated the plant for use as a soothing digestive remedy.

Peppermint had become an accepted medicinal plant known for its ability to alleviate indigestion and flatulence and tea brewed with peppermint leaves offers relief from cold and flu symptoms.

In aromatherapy, peppermint essential oil is recognised for its ability to cool the body. It helps alleviate anger and support mental clarity especially when blended with Lemon or Rosemary. When used for massage, it helps ease tired legs or feet and with its antimicrobial properties, is a common ingredient in foot care products.

Peppermint Essential Oil Uses

Sinus Relief - inhaling diffused peppermint essential oil unclogs your sinuses and relieves sore throat. Peppermint acts as an expectorant and provides relief for colds, cough, sinusitis, asthma and bronchitis. It has the ability to clear respiratory tract and acts as a decongestant.

Lowers Fever - Peppermint's cooling property helps bring down a fever, especially in children. Mix peppermint essential oil with a carrier oil and rub it on a child's neck and on the bottom of their feet to help stabilize a fever the natural way.

Reduces bloatedness and indigestion - Peppermint essential oil is a natural alternative to reduce spasms of the colon. It works by relaxing the muscle of your intestines, and reduces bloating and flatulence. Adding a few drops of peppermint essential oil to a carrier oil and massaging the stomach area gives quick relief to stomach discomfort.

Headache and Muscle Pain Relief - Peppermint essential oil is an effective natural painkiller and muscle relaxant. It helps soothe aching back, sore muscles and gives relieve to tension headache and migraine as it has the ability to improve circulation and releases tight muscles.

Energizer - an alternative to sweet energy drinks, inhaling peppermint essential oil perks you up on long road trips, in school or during preparation for examination as it boosts energy and improves focus and concentration.