Day 24 is here just in time for Christmas! One of my favorites, peppermint!
Peppermint essential oil is one of my favorites and a favorite of many. This essential oil does have a contraindication that many may not realize. Peppermint has a cooling feel when used topically. If you use too much, it could have the opposite effect. I use this essential oil in my homemade bug spray, which you can find here. I love using peppermint essential oil in my tummy rub recipe and in my sugar foot scrubs. Peppermint is invigorating for tired feet. I have also used this essential oil for nausea. Peppermint essential oil is safe for breastfeeding, but it may reduce the milk supply in some women. If that is the case, simply stop using it, and your supply will begin to restore to normal. Peppermint essential oil can be energizing for some people. This would be a good oil to diffuse for that morning pick me up. An interesting story of how the name peppermint got its name. In Greek mythology it was said, the god Hades (also known as pluto or king of the underworld) was having an affair with a nymph named Minthe. When his wife Persephone found out about his infidelity, she turned Minthe into a common plant that grew like a weed and to be constantly trampled underfoot. I guess I will never look at a peppermint plant the same way again. HaHa.
Essential Oil Common Name: Peppermint
Latin Name: Mentha x piperita
Family: Lamiaceae
Part of Plant Used: Leaves
Extraction Method: Steam Distilled
Notes (Scent and Staying Power): Middle-top
Safe for Ages: Safe for ages 6+ due to the menthol content. There are some general guidelines when it comes to children and this essential oil. Use caution when using it on children between ages 2-5 if you plan on using it. Avoid on children under 2. If you create a blend for yourself, use a quarter of the amount of essential oil for children as a safe guideline. This also goes for diffusing peppermint essential oil. If your child (or anyone) is coughing, sneezing, has watery eyes, or labored breathing, stop use and air out the area. This essential oil needs to be kept away from the face of infants and children, which I get into more detail in contraindications.
Safe for Pregnancy: Yes
Safe for Breastfeeding: Yes
Topical Max: The topical max for this essential oil is 5.4%. Always dilute before applying to the skin.
Shelf Life: 5 Years
Key Therapeutic Properties/Actions: Adaptogenic (either sedative or stimulating), Analgesic, Antibacterial, Anti-inflammatory, Antimicrobial, Antispasmodic, Decongestant, Digestive, Gas relief, Insect repellant
Contraindications: This essential oil has a few contraindications. Avoid orally/internally if you have GERD or Cholestasis. Avoid all routes (internal, topical, and inhalation) if you have Cardiac fibrillation or a G6PD deficiency. If you are unsure if any of this applies to you, consult your doctor. Peppermint essential oil may cause mucous membrane irritation, so it is important to avoid it orally/internally and keep it away from the face of infants and children. This essential oil could have apnea effects which can distress the infant or child’s breathing. Infants and children have a risk of a neurotoxic effect if it’s instilled into their noses. High doses for extended periods of use for adults could also have this same neurotoxic effect. Avoid using with homeopathics since it may antidote them. **Note: Peppermint is a common essential oil many have used without issue. This information is here so you can be aware, and use with caution and understanding…especially around infants and children.
Where to purchase: Peppermint here.
Thank you for reading!
Love and Nature,
Nicole
Remember: The contents of this blog post are intended for educational and informational purposes only and may not be the best fit for you and your personal situation. It shall not be construed as medical advice. The information and education provided here is not intended or implied to supplement or replace professional medical treatment, advice, and/or diagnosis. Always check with your own physician or medical professional before trying or implementing any information read here. Click here to read more about my medical/FDA disclaimers.
References:
Tisserand, R., & Young, R. (2014). Essential Oil Safety. (2nd ed.). Churchill Livingstone.
Petersen, D. (2016). Aromatherapy Materia Medica. American College of Healthcare Sciences.
Aromahead Institute. (n.d.). Aromatherapy Certification Program. [Courses]. Aromahead Institute. https://courses.aromahead.com/aromatherapy-certification-program