Peppermint oil

Peppermint scientifically known as Mentha piperita, is an herbaceous perennial plant which is a hybrid generated from the crossing of the watermint and the spearmint. The plant’s origin is traced back in Europe, but now is widely spread through the globe. Due to increased pollination, it is widely found wild habitats alongside the two parent species. It is a rhizomous plant bearing widely spread, fleshy and fibrous rhizomes. It produces dark green leaves that are about 5cm long widths a 9cm breadth. The apexes of the leaves are acute with saw-like margins. It produces purple colored flowers.

Peppermint’ ecological requirements for growth includes a moist and shaded surrounding, although it can also grow on a wide range of ecological zones provided that it gets sufficient moisture. This plant is non-deciduous hence the leaves are available throughout the year. However, it is better to use its leaves during the warm weather as at this time, they offer a pleasant flavor. 

Research has confirmed that this extraordinary herbaceous plant is packed with beneficial nutrients making it to have more than a dozen medicinal properties for both its leaves and the oil extract.

Applications

1.      On the body

Digestion

It is beneficial in calming digestion problems. It necessitates the bile generation for digestion of fats. It also aids in the swift and smooth flow of food through the gut. It eliminates the buildup of gases in the stomach that can result to extreme pain in the lower abdomen. Peppermint oil is also beneficial in relieving the irritable bowel syndrome.

Sensitivity

Peppermint is capable of improving the sense of taste and touch. In some occasions, one might not be able to sense a bitter or sweet taste, inhalation of the peppermint improves the tongue’s responses to such tastes.

Intelligence

Peppermint oil has been proven to improve on the brain’s performance towards mental sharpness and decision-making. For this purpose, it is always advisable to provide peppermint oil to young developing children as this improves their intelligence.

Reduction of tumor growth

Cancer has been lately declared a global disaster, affecting more than a third of the world’s population. Recent research has indicated that peppermint oil is a stable anti-tumor agent. Peppermint oil contains a substance known as perillyl alcohol that is capable of stopping of tumors in the pancreas, mammary glands and the liver.

Relief of coughs and colds

Those affected with coughs and colds can get their relief by using peppermint.

2.      On the skin

·         Peppermint reduces headaches and migraines when applied on the skin’s forehead.

·         Application of the peppermint on the skin is helpful in reduction of muscle and nerve pains on affected regions.

·         It is capable of reducing skin allergic reactions to certain trigger elements such as foods, dust or pollen.

·         When applied to injured skin, it reduces the chances of viral and bacterial infections to the wound.

·         Research has shown that peppermint sap is helpful to breastfeeding mothers as it reduces nipple pains and cracks.

Peppermint extracts include the oils and food flavor. The oils can be smeared on affected body parts while the flavor can be used in flavoring of food and tea.

Precautions

It is advisable to seek professional guidance from a health practitioner before using the peppermint extracts, especially for medicinal purpose, otherwise it can be comfortably used for food flavoring.