Peppermint

Peppermint

Latin Name: Mentha piperita

Plant Family: Lamiaceae
~the mint family

Actions: antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, anti-parasitic, antiseptic, antispasmodic, aphrodisiac, carminative, cholagogue, emetic, emmenagogue, stimulant, stomachic, tonic

Character: sweet, cooling, pungent

Constituents: azulene, cineol, menthol, tannin

Peppermint is a popular ingredient 

in soaps, deodorants, toothpastes, mouthwashes, and cosmetics. 

It is used widely as a flavoring in 

foods and beverages. 

I associate peppermint with chewing gum which helps control bad breath.

Tea

The tea is the most popular way to ingest peppermint. Use one heaping teaspoon of dried peppermint leaves and pour one cup of boiling water over them. Steep for five minutes. 


Enjoy the refreshing, minty flavor of peppermint tea. Drink it to prevent indigestion before, or after a meal. It can be used to suppress the appetite.

Peppermint tea helps with motion sickness, morning sickness, and nausea.

You can also use the infusion in your bath to relieve itching and skin conditions.

Essential oil

Peppermint essential oil’s sharp and cleansing scent is great for rejuvenation and creating a sense of alertness.

The smell can enhance mental clarity.

Peppermint essential oil is ideal for relieving respiratory issues such as bronchitis, asthma, colds, flus, and coughs.

Treat acne and dermatitis by applying the oil on your skin.

Rub peppermint essential oil on your gums to alleviate toothaches.

For an energy boost, add 3 drops of peppermint oil with 5 teaspoons of spring water, put into a spray bottle, shake bottle, and mist away.

Peppermint essential oil soothes headaches.

To ease that pain in your head, add 1 drop of peppermint oil with 1 teaspoon of almond oil, and rub on your temples to relieve pain.

Ants strongly dislike the smell of peppermint. I put this to the test at home. Ants started taking over the sinks in the bathroom and the kitchen. I added 10 drops of peppermint essential oil to a spray bottle filled with water. I sprayed down both areas really well. I am still seeing one or two ants here and there, but nothing like before. I’m going to continue spraying daily until the ants are completely gone. I feel good that I'm not using any chemicals, plus I get to inhale the crisp, refreshing scent which is peppermint.

Folklore

Peppermint raises the peaceful vibrations of an area.

It attracts money.

Carry peppermint with you for safe travels.

Peppermint is used as an incense to cleanse the home.

Rub peppermint on the feet of your lover to strengthen your devotion towards one another.

Place peppermint under your pillow to dream of the future.

Peppermint essential oil is used in spells to create a positive change in one's life.


Peace, Inspiration, & Love,

~Amy

The Spirit Dancer