Peppermint and Spearmint.
Both these herbs belongs to the same genus Mentha and looks the same in appearance. The only difference is in its menthol quantity - peppermint is has a more intense aroma with 40% of menthol while spearmint is comparatively mild compared to peppermint with only 1% of menthol.
Use of this multi-purpose essential oil can be traced back to Chinese and Japanese folk medicine practices. Its usage has also been mentioned in ancient Egyptian and Greek civilization. Peppermint essential oil with its energizing and refreshing minty aroma has earned the reputation of being one of the most versatile essential oils in the world thanks to its active components of Menthol and Menthone which are known for their ability to calm inflammation , uplift mood and destroy harmful bacteria.
BENEFITS OF PEPPERMINT OIL
1. Relief from body pain and headache
Because of its chemical constituents of Menthol, Menthone, and other constituents peppermint essential oil has analgesic properties and thus releases muscle tension ,relieves pain and reduces inflammation.
2. Healthy and Beautiful Skin
Peppermint essential oil also exhibits anti-bacterial and anti-septic properties and thus been it kills harmful bacteria, clears skin infection and its cooling and anti-inflammatory characteristic soothes inflamed or sun burnt skin. It also acts as an astringent that closes pores and tightens the skin. But always remember to dilute potent essential oils with a carrier oil like grape seed oil, jojoba oil or olive oil etc.
3. Relieves Congestion
Clinical studies have shown that because of its expectorant properties the aromatic usage of peppermint essential oil can improve a wide range of respiratory conditions and respiratory function. Chest rubs containing this essential oil relieves congestion, and thus helps in easy breathing.
4. Smell Fresh
Since peppermint essential oil is anti-bacterial in nature it eliminates odour causing bacteria. This is the reason why several mouthwash and toothpastes ,deodorant, soaps, body washes, shampoos etc. have this essential oil as one of its active ingredients.
5. Boosts hair growth and removes Dandruff
This essential helps in hair growth as it stimulates the scalp and hair follicles when applied topically. Because of it anti-septic, anti-fungal properties it effectively removes dandruff by destroying the dandruff causing yeast infection
6. Helps to treat Motion Sickness and Nausea
When diluted and inhaled or when rubbed in small amounts behind the ear, the refreshing aroma of peppermint helps in relieving nausea and its associated headache.
7. Improves Focus and Uplifts Mood
In aromatherapy peppermint oil is believed to improve concentration boost energy and reduce nervousness. The minty aroma uplifts the mood ,eases stress and fights fatigue.
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