Ailments relieved by peppermint oil:
• Stress
• Nausea
• Headache
• Irritable Bowel Syndrome
• Respiratory Concerns
o Congestion
o Asthma
o Colds and bronchitis
o Sinus and allergy problems
Respiratory concerns:
Peppermint has been shown to be very effective in cleaning the lungs due to its active ingredients menthol which cleanses and purifies while other properties help ward off germs and toxins. It is found in lozenges and salves, but also lung balms. The most productive way to use it for respiratory and lung concerns is to inhale it. There are several efficient ways to accomplish this.
Quick ways to receive the respiratory benefits of peppermint oil:
• Tea- make a tea using fresh or dried peppermint leaves. Use about 1 Tbsp. to a boiling cup of water. Let the tea steep for several minutes. In addition, to drinking the tea inhale the steam.
• Oil burners- Using high-grade essential oil put a few drops of the oil
with water in an oil burner. This is great to do while bathing.
• Cotton balls- put a few drops of peppermint oil on a cotton ball or tissue and place it next to your bedside.
Though there are high-grade brands of peppermint oil available, it is
also fun and easy to make your own. Making your own oil will ensure you
of the quality and save you money.
1. Recipe for Peppermint oil tincture:
Ingredients needed:
1. Fresh peppermint leaves
2. Carrier oil – almond, sesame or grapeseed
3. Clean glass Mason jar
4. Small sterilized bottle with dropper
5. Mortar and pestle
6. Cheesecloth
Procedure:
1. Gather the peppermint leaves early in the morning. Make sure you
choose leaves without bruises. If you don’t have your own plant, you
will want to purchase some from a Farmer’s Market.
2. Wash the leaves in cool water. Do not use the stems.
3. Let the leaves dry.
4. Macerate the leaves using a mortar and pestle do release the oils.
5. Put the leaves in the bottom of the clean sterilized jar.
6. Pour the carrier oil until the leaves are completely covered.
7. Let sit 24 hours at room temperature
8. Strain through cheesecloth into a small bottle. Make sure you are
just getting the oil into the bottle and not any plant matter.
Now you have your own peppermint oil you can use for lung health and a variety of other applications. Besides inhaling, try adding a few drops to unscented lotion or bath salts.
Remember that peppermint oil is very potent, so don’t use more than the suggested amount and never apply it directly to your skin. Also, it is critical that pregnant women don’t use it directly or inhale it. It may induce labor and cause miscarriage. It should also not be used on babies and small children due to its potency.
If you are prone to respiratory and congestion concerns, make sure you are ready with some peppermint oil. You will be glad you did!