by Melissa Chichester
This oil needs little introduction, as few scents are as distinctly tantalizing and powerful as peppermint.
Peppermint is actually a hybrid of two other plants: watermint and spearmint, and has a long history of herbal and culinary uses dating back to the ancient Egyptians. Pyramids dating back to 1000 BC were found to have dried peppermint leaves in them, and it was during this time peppermint became known for its use in soothing occasional indigestion. It was first listed in the London Pharmacopoeia, a book of medicines, in 1721.
Cool, minty, and vibrant, Peppermint Oil is a wildly popular scent, as we can find it in herbal teas and other beverages, chewing gum, vapor rub, candies, muscle rub, medicines, and even cosmetics! This powerful fragrance is distinctive and comforting in a familiar way.
Peppermint blends well with Bergamot, Lavender, Cedarwood, Lemon, Lime, Pine, Rosemary and Spearmint.
Traditionally used for rejuvenating and uplifting the body, Peppermint Oil awakens the senses when a couple drops are dabbed on the temples. It is a relaxing herb that is often used to calm muscles. Have you ever used a hot/cold muscle rub? If you have, it probably included peppermint for muscle soothing purposes.
Blend oils together and then massage onto temples as needed.
Blend oils together and then massage into muscles as needed.
Mix all ingredients in a small bowl. Using your fingers, apply a small amount at the roots of your hair and brush through until hair is refreshed. Store the remainder in a small jar and use between washes as needed.
In a small bowl, mix all ingredients until smooth. Rub onto neck and chest as needed for soothing.
Mix all ingredients in a bowl and store in an airtight glass jar. Apply a tablespoon to dry skin on legs or arms as needed, and gently massage. Rinse with warm water.
Mix all ingredients and store in a glass spray bottle. Shake, and spritz a light amount on face as needed throughout the day.
Mix all ingredients in a plastic bowl and store in a plastic container before use. After drawing a warm bath, add ¼ cup to bathwater, take a deep breath, and soak!
Mix all ingredients in a small bowl, then add to a spray bottle. Shake before using, and spritz as needed around the house to fresh up the air.
In a glass mixing bottle, blend all ingredients well. Dab a small amount on each wrist and other pulse points as desired. Do not rub to avoid crushing the notes. Store in an airtight, dark glass container.
Not a Do-It-Yourselfer? Check out this Cooling Peppermint Oil Roll On.
Warning – essential oils are not for internal use. Never apply undiluted oil directly to skin.