Health Benefits:

"As for the garden mint, the very smell of it alone recovers and refreshes the spirit"--The Roman naturalist, Pliny

Peppermint oil is known for the dramatic effective it has on the body and mind. In the body, it is particularly well-suited for respiratory, digestive system as well as skin and soft tissue complaints. A powerful nervous system stimulant, peppermint can assist in nervous disorders and sharpens mental focus. Peppermint oil's wide ranging ability to help digestive issues include appetite stimulation, and nausea and gas reduction when used in direct inhalation or diffusion. A drop of peppermint oil in a glass of water is thought to aid in overall healthy digestion. The herb may also be taken as a tisane for the same purposes. Applied topically (highly diluted) over the abdomen, peppermint is believed to stimulate the gall bladder and increase the secretion of bile.

A cooling pain reliever, peppermint oil is applied to the temples (again always highly diluted) to treat headache and reduce fever. Peppermint essential oil is also extremely effective for taking the edge off tension headaches. The presence of menthol in peppermint oil supports the skin and respiratory tract. An effective expectorant, peppermint oil provides instantaneous, though temporary, relief of nasal congestion, sinusitis, asthma, bronchitis, cold and cough when rubbed on the chest (diluted) or inhaled directly. It is used to relieve skin irritation, sunburn, and itchiness as it nourishes and balances dull, oily skin. It is commonly used in dental care due to its antiseptic and refreshing properties.

Peppermint oil's refreshing nature makes it ideal for mental fatigue and depression, stimulating mental agility and improving concentration. It is also effective against anxiety and restlessness.

How to Use:

How To Use Peppermint Oil:

Peppermint oil can be applied topically, as a compress, in the bath, through direct inhalation, or diffuser. Please note that peppermint oil is not compatible with homeopathic treatments.

Add two drops to 1/2 water for a refreshing mouth wash that stimulates gums and helps with bad breath.

Add several drops to massage oil or lotion to cool skin after sunburn or inflammation.

Use a few drops in an aromatic bath to assist with heat conditions, headaches, cramps, nausea and general aches and pains.

Add several drops to a bowl of water to deter insects when outdoors.

Diffuse peppermint oil to increase concentration, stimulate the mind, and freshen air.

Peppermint Oil Recipes:

Spasmodic Cough formula: 4 drops Eastern hemlock, 2 drops eucalyptus, 2 drops peppermint, 4 drops chamomile, in steaming water – inhaled several times daily, or added to 1/2 oz unscented balm and rubbed on chest as needed

Nausea blend: 4 drops grapefruit, 4 drops peppermint, 2 drops ginger, 2 drops fennel in 15ml marula or other carrier oil

Mental clarity blend: 4 drops lime, 2 drops tulsi, 2 drops peppermint in diffuser, or place a few drops on tissue and inhale

Sore muscle formula: 4 drops ginger, 6 drops peppermint, 6 drops eucalyptus globulus, 2 drops sweet birch in 30ml marula or other carrier oil

Respiratory/bronchitis blend: 8 drops frankincense frereana, 6 drops eucalyptus globulus, 3 drops rosemary, 3 drops pine, 2 drops peppermint for diffusion, or in 30 ml jojoba oil for topical/direct inhalation

More Information:

Mentha piperita is a hybrid of watermint (M. aquatica) and spearmint (M. spicata). The genus name Mentha comes from Greek Mythology's "Menthe," the charming nymph who was adored by Pluto, and subsequently trampled to the ground by his jealous wife, Persephone, resulting in today's aromatic mint herb. Mints are mentioned in early medieval plants lists and were  brought to Britain in Roman Times. Ancient Greeks also advised against its use among soldiers for fear that increased love making would diminish their strength in battle. Nicholas Culpeper wrote that the herb "stirs up venery, or bodily lust." Pliny, the Roman naturalist, advised scholars to wear a crown of mint to aid concentration and warned lovers that it was "contrary to procreation."

Mentha piperita has been found in Egyptian tombs dating back to 1000 B.C. and there is evidence that peppermint has a long history in Europe, China, and Japan. It has been used extensively in both Eastern and Western medicine for problems such as nausea, headaches, toothaches, cramp, diarrhea, sore throats and indigestion.  

The United States is now considered to be the world's largest producer of peppermint oil, though it is cultivated worldwide. Most peppermint oil is primarily used in the food and flavoring industries rather than aromatherapy or natural perfumery.

Safety Guidelines:

Safety Considerations for Peppermint Essential Oil:

Though it is non-toxic and non-irritating, peppermint may be sensitizing because of its high menthol content, causing irritation to the skin and mucous membranes. Do not use on children younger than 7 years of age. Peppermint oil is not compatible with homeopathic treatments.

Aromatic Profile & Blending:

Aromatic Profile and Blending of Peppermint Oil:

Perfumery Note: Top
Odor:  Strong, clear deep, penetrating, refreshing
Strength of Initial Aroma:  Strong 
Blends well with: marjoram, eucalyptus, lavender, lemon, and rosemary
Dryout: Sweet, clean

Product Details:

Botanical Name:  Mentha piperita
Family:  Labiatae
Composition: 100% Pure Peppermint Oil
Origin: South Africa
Method of Extraction: Steam distilled
Cultivation/Harvesting: Non-Certified Organic
Plant Part: Aerial Parts
Color: Clear to pale yellow
Consistency:  Thin
Yield:  .5 -2.5%

Bottle Size: 15 ml (1/2 oz.)

Why Buy From Floracopeia:

Floracopeia was established to help preserve and promote the use of botanical medicines as solutions to the widespread ecological destruction taking place in the world, and the loss of medicinal plants on which traditional medical systems depend. We provide our customers with the highest quality essential oils and other botanical aromatic treasures through the promotion of ecological sustainability, organic agriculture, and agro-forestry projects.

Our products are acclaimed for their therapeutic-grade, high quality at affordable prices. We provide artisanal quality oils produced by small family-based distillers. We buy directly from farmers and distillers, thus supporting the local economies in which the plants are grown. We do not buy oils from the world-brokers. Floracopeia is founded with a strong medical orientation and is involved in a number of global eco-projects based in grass roots health care, spirituality, reforestation projects, and the preservation and restoration of ethno-botanical culture.