Peppermint: the menthol it contains has an analgesic action (pain reliever) that acts on pain receptors. It thus causes immediate subcutaneous vasoconstriction, resulting in its refreshing effect. Peppermint is used externally to relieve joint and inflammatory pain. Rarely used pure, except for one to two drops for certain neuralgias, it is often part of multiple pain relief formulations for topical use.
Identification
Label name: Peppermint Essential Oil
Botanical species: Mentha Piperita (peppermint)
Family: Lamiaceae
Part used: Leaves
Extraction method: Hydrodistillation
Origin: United States
Main constituents: Menthol, menthene, phellandrene, limonene, menthyl acetate, menthone
Uses: Massages, inhalations, baths, diffusions, and compresses.
Properties for external use
- Antispasmodic
- Anti-inflammatory
- Analgesic and sedative
- Promotes muscle oxygenation
- Antiseptic
- Parasiticide
Main uses for external use
- Spasms, contractions, muscle tension, and inflammation
- Neuralgic and rheumatic muscle pain
- Eczema
- Dermatitis < skin irritations
- Cracks in the breasts due to breastfeeding
- Dermal hyperthermia
- Acne
- Bruises
- Oral ulcers
- Scabies
- Asthma, bronchitis, sinusitis, colds
- Migraines, dental neuralgia
- Mosquitoes (repels them)
- Preventing post-surgical nausea (by inhalation)
- Excellent for foot care
Directions for use
Spot massage: Apply 3 to 4 drops of pure essential oil to the affected area or area to be treated.
Massage: To achieve a 5% dilution, ideal for massages, mix 5 ml of essential oil with 100 ml of vegetable oil, alcohol-free gel, cream, or virgin massage emulsion.
Inhalation: Apply 2 or 3 drops on a handkerchief and breathe for a few minutes. Stop if you feel any discomfort. Repeat as often as necessary OR Boil water, remove from heat, pour into a dish, add a few drops of essential oil, cover your head with a towel, and breathe gently.
In the bath: Pour 5 drops of pure essential oil into the water, bath foam, or a handful of sea salt.
Compresses: Add a few drops of oil to a bowl of very hot water. Dip a clean cloth in the water. Squeeze and place the compress on the affected area. Repeat as often as necessary.
Essential oil diffusers: Add 10 to 15 drops to a diffuser of your choice. Duration: 10 to 15 minutes depending on the size of the room.
Recommendations and precautions for use
Caution: Slightly irritating for sensitive skin, dilute in almond oil. Do not rub the entire body with this essential oil, as it could cause rapid cooling, even leading to hypothermia.
IMPORTANT: KEEP OUT OF REACH OF CHILDREN AND PETS. KEEP AWAY FROM HEAT, FLAMES, AND LIGHT. FLAMMABLE
