peppermint scent benefits


A meta-analysis of twelve studies concluded that peppermint oil was a safe and effective therapy that helped reduce pain and other symptoms in people with this condition. Antioxidants help fight against free radicals, which can damage the growth and development of cells in the body. By clicking Subscribe, I agree to the WebMD, Smart Grocery Shopping When You Have Diabetes, Surprising Things You Didn't Know About Dogs and Cats, Coronavirus in Context: Interviews With Experts, Health News and Information, Delivered to Your Inbox, Becoming a Vegetarian: Foods to Choose From. WebMD does not provide medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. In one study, people who had undergone spine surgery and had received a rinse made with peppermint, tea tree and lemon oils experienced improvement in bad breath symptoms, compared to those who did not receive the oils (13). In the small amounts commonly taken, peppermint oil appears to be safe for most people. It is a herbaceous rhizomatous perennial plant that grows to be 30–90 cm (12–35 in) tall, with smooth stems, square in cross section. Ease Pain Naturally – For a natural muscle relaxer or pain reliever, peppermint essential oil is one of the best. : In Vitro Study on Clinical and Food-Borne Isolates.”, Molecules: “Chemical Composition and Antioxidant Properties of Essential Oils from Peppermint, Native Spearmint and Scotch Spearmint.”, National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health: “Peppermint Oil.”, Nursing: “Inhaled peppermint oil for postop nausea in patients undergoing cardiac surgery.”, Poison Control: “Essential Oils: Poisonous when Misused.”. Peppermint (Mentha × piperita) is an aromatic herb in the mint family that is a cross between watermint and spearmint. Peppermint is always a great source to help ease constricting muscles, especially the muscles in the uterine wall. Think of peppermint as the “tummy whisperer.” Studies show it can tame a variety of digestive issues including nausea and irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). Menthol gives peppermint its cooling properties and recognizably minty scent. Drinking peppermint tea may help improve your ability to concentrate and focus. It is one of the most commonly used essential oils out on the market. © 2005 - 2019 WebMD LLC. Most of the available peppermint essential oil studies are about IBS, indigestion, nausea, and headaches. The tea itself has rarely been studied scientifically, but peppermint extracts have. When your day is dragging - through a workout, class, or day at work - enjoy some Peppermint oil benefits by diluting and applying it to your head and neck. Peppermint oil may have no more effect than a placebo on postoperative nausea. Peppermint was first described in 1753 by Carl Linnaeus from specimens that had been collected in England; he treated it as a species, but it is now universally agreed to be a hybrid. A review of nine studies in 926 people with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) treated with peppermint oil for at least two weeks concluded that peppermint provided significantly better symptom relief than a placebo (4). The oil is sometimes referred to by the name of its main chemical component, menthol. In one study, 24 healthy young people experienced less fatigue during a cognitive test when given peppermint oil capsules (18). The combination of peppermint oil and the warm water helps to relieve stress and anxiety. © 2005-2021 Healthline Media a Red Ventures Company. You can make your own essential oil at home through the process of maceration or buy various products on the market if you are interested in this effective natural health and beauty item. This delicious-smelling essential oil can relieve headaches and sore muscles and is a wonderful energizer. Because peppermint tea is naturally free of caffeine, you can drink it at any time of day. But they do it naturally. Peppermint contains rosmarinic acid, a plant compound found in rosemary and plants in the mint family (28). The positive effects of Peppermint Oil are powerful and have beneficial impacts on interconnected body systems. Nothing is quite as invigorating as the scent of peppermint. Not only has it been used for its minty scent, but as a symbol of hospitality. Peppermint essential oil is renowned for its stimulating, analgesic, digestive and cooling properties. Treats Respiratory Problems. Additionally, studies indicate that peppermint reduces several types of bacteria commonly found in your mouth (11, 12). Try using Peppermint essential oil aromatically or topically anytime you want to add a pleasant variety to your routine! This crisp, refreshing scent helps to reduce inflammation in your nasal passageways. 5. Turn off the heat and add a handful of torn peppermint leaves to the water. When compared to a placebo in a recent study, aromatherapy using peppermint did not appear to have a significant effect on nausea and vomiting. In addition to being ingested, peppermint oil can be used topically or in aromatherapy. It can help to boost your mood and relieve feelings of sadness as well as enhance mental performance and feelings of happiness. In one study, peppermint oil was found to kill and prevent the growth of common food-borne bacteria including E. coli, Listeria and Salmonella in pineapple and mango juices (21). However, another study found that menthol did not have a sedative effect (24, 25). At least nine separate studies have evaluated peppermint oil for digestion. Reduction in A highly effective expectorant, it can clear the respiratory tract and give you instant relief from several problems like nasal congestion, bronchitis, asthma, sinusitis, scratchy throat, cough, and cold. Due to its menthol component, the peppermint essential oil is terrific for respiratory diseases. Furthermore, capsules containing peppermint oil reduced incidence and severity of nausea and vomiting in a study in 200 people undergoing chemotherapy for cancer (7). Fresh herbs can not only spice up your meals, they may also help you maintain good health all year long. Clear Sinuses – Diffused or inhaled peppermint essential oil usually clears stubborn sinuses and soothes sore throats immediately. Healthline Media does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. What is Peppermint Essential Oil? In another study, schoolgirls given a peppermint mouth rinse experienced an improvement in breath after one week, compared to the control group (14). Peppermint Essential Oil Benefits Considered one of the oldest forms of medicine in the world, peppermint oil contains several health benefits. Microbial Drug Resistance: “Selected Essential Oils as Antifungal Agents Against Antibiotic-Resistant Candida spp. Thankfully, you can take control of your sinuses by diffusing peppermint oil! Peppermint oil also kills several types of bacteria that lead to illnesses in humans, including Staphylococcus and pneumonia-linked bacteria (22). Peppermint may relieve digestive symptoms, such as gas, bloating and indigestion. Peppermint Essential Oil is an eminent and versatile oil that can be used on almost any part of the body for almost any ailment. What’s more, peppermint’s capacity as a muscle relaxant may help you relax before bedtime (2, 3). Here are the 6 best teas that help you sleep. However, of the oils tested, peppermint had the lowest impact on fungus, specifically on Candida yeast. Peppermint Essential Oil Benefits and Studies. In another study, peppermint oil aromatherapy was found to reduce the incidence of daytime sleepiness (19). Peppermint leaves contain several essential oils including menthol, menthone and limonene (1). While it’s unknown whether the amount of rosmarinic acid found in peppermint is enough to affect allergy symptoms, there is some evidence that peppermint may relieve allergies. To date, the most extensive research and most recommended application involve the treatment of IBS symptoms. Add a few drops of both oils to a diffuser and breathe deeply to help relieve allergy symptoms naturally. Mint is a popular ingredient in several foods and beverages. This article explains everything you need to know about essential oils and their health…, Peppermint oil may be known for its skin care benefits, but it's also good for your hair and scalp. Peppermint Extract Benefits Tummy Tamer. As peppermint acts as a muscle relaxant and pain reliever, it may diminish certain types of headaches (2). Essential oils do not undergo the same rigorous testing that traditional medications do. The scent helps to stimulate mental alertness and refresh your spirit. In one randomized clinical study in 35 people with migraines, peppermint oil applied to the forehead and temples significantly reduced pain after two hours, compared to a placebo oil (9). In another study in 41 people, peppermint oil applied to the forehead was found to be as effective for headaches as 1,000 mg of acetaminophen (10). Additionally, this mint has antibacterial properties and may improve allergy symptoms, headaches and clogged airways. This is the greatest benefit you can get from using essential oils. In one study in 72 people with IBS, peppermint oil capsules reduced IBS symptoms by 40% after four weeks, compared to only 24.3% with a placebo (5). It may help with dryness, itching, and other…. Used medicinally, Peppermint essential oil has been found to eliminate harmful bacteria, relieve muscle spasms and flatulence, disinfect and soothe inflamed skin, and to release muscle tension when used in a massage. Boost Productivity In another study, smelling peppermint oil was found to improve memory and alertness, compared to ylang-ylang, another popular essential oil (33). All rights reserved. Properties. Studies at the Sense of Smell Institute confirm that peppermint oil has mood-elevating properties that make it useful for alleviating symptoms of anxiety and depression. A similar study on the use of peppermint oil during barium enemas produced similar results. The plant’s first recorded appearance dates back to 1000 BC when dried peppermint leaves were found entombed in ancient Egyptian pyramids. Journal of Reproduction & Infertility: “Effect of Aromatherapy with Peppermint Oil on the Severity of Nausea and Vomiting in Pregnancy: A Single-blind, Randomized, Placebo-controlled trial. It also helps reduce congestion, so you can breathe more deeply and comfortably. It’s effective & quintessential for nausea, vomiting, morning sickness, cramps, gas, colds, cough and for … When capsules are taken with over-the-counter antacids, the risk of heartburn may increase. The rhizomes are wide-spreading, fleshy, and bear fibrous roots. While there are no studies on peppermint tea specifically, research demonstrates that natural compounds in peppermint may have beneficial effects on energy. Oral dosing should follow the quantity and methods advertised because too much can be harmful. Peppermint has natural antibacterial properties, so it’s often used as a key ingredient in homemade cleaning products. It is available in the forms of leaves, capsules, and oils. With that said, early research shows that it may also be a potential treatment for respiratory conditions, headaches, itchiness, and fatigue. Peppermint has shown health benefits for irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), nausea, … A small study also proved the oil to have mild antifungal properties. Some literature claims that peppermint oil wasn’t used widely until the 18th century, but that’s not really true. While peppermint tea has not been studied to that effect, compounds in peppermint have been shown to improve symptoms. More research is needed on peppermint and weight loss. There’s a reason why peppermint is a common flavoring for toothpastes, mouthwashes and chewing gums. In one study, peppermint oil lengthened the sleeping time of mice given a sedative. It has seen usage for more than two hundred years, and there is evidence of its use in both ancient Rome and Egypt. Topical application may help to soothe chronic itches. While peppermint tea is often drunk for its flavor, it may also have several health benefits. Rosmarinic acid is linked to reduced symptoms of allergic reactions, such as runny nose, itchy eyes and asthma (29, 30). Many people think of essential oils as alternative medicines. We’ll tell you what to…. Peppermint essential oil is highly concentrated and comes from the leaves and flowering parts of the peppermint plant, Mentha x piperita. Peppermint tea and the natural compounds found in peppermint leaves may benefit your health in several ways. According to a small study, peppermint oil administered by a doctor during an endoscopy helped reduce the patient’s spasms. Digestion . The strong scent and high menthol content of doTERRA’s Peppermint essential oil makes it one of the most popular oils. Nausea in pregnant women may also not be affected by it. But they are not a medication of any kind. However, applying peppermint oil to your temples may help. Peppermint oil can be added to distilled water to create basic, everyday cleaner for countertops. Native to Europe and Asia, it has been used for thousands of years for its pleasant, minty taste and health benefits. Peppermint oil may also have mild antibacterial properties. Refresh Aromatherapy Soap Aromatherapy:/ refresh with peppermint essential oil to help refresh your spirit Complexion:/ all skin types Pure Coconut oil Soap Facial Bar Soap net weight 4oz/120g Activated Bamboo Charcoal Powder is widely used as a topical body treatment that is thought to capture bodily toxins in pores and remove them. The 6 Best Bedtime Teas That Help You Sleep, Peppermint Oil and Spiders: Know the Facts. Topical application may help to soothe chronic itches. It also prevents smooth muscles from contracting, which could relieve spasms in your gut (2, 3). Peppermint aromatherapy is also known to work wonders for people experiencing mental exhaustion, restlessness, and depression. Peppermint Essential Oil health benefits includes promoting healthy digestive system, relieving sore muscles, repelling bug, treating joint pains, relieving headaches, treating urinary tract infections, improving circulation, ensuring healthy skin, promoting health teeth, and relieving stress. In one study in 127 women with painful periods, peppermint extract capsules were found to be as effective as a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug in reducing the intensity and duration of pain (20). You should be careful in using them. Peppermint tea is an ideal choice before bed, as it’s naturally caffeine-free. In reality, the mint has been used by healers and physicians for centuries. Peppermint has antibacterial, antiviral and anti-inflammatory properties. All rights reserved. A mint allergy isn’t common, but it can exist. If you’re allergic to mint, there are several products you may need to avoid. Furthermore, warm liquids, such as chicken broth and tea, have been shown to temporarily improve symptoms of sinus congestion, likely due to their vapors (17). 2. While research on peppermint tea is limited, several studies outline the benefits of peppermint oil and peppermint extracts. In addition to its pleasant smell, peppermint has antibacterial properties that help kill germs that cause dental plaque — which may improve your breath (11, 12). In a small study in 13 healthy people, taking a peppermint oil capsule resulted in reduced appetite compared to not taking peppermint (26). Possible side effects of consuming peppermint oil include nausea, heartburn, dry mouth, and abdominal pain. Peppermint is a hybrid of watermint and spearmint. Using peppermint essential oil in your everyday life has been proven to be extremely beneficial for your health and well-being. Peppermint is used as a flavoring in breath mints, candies and other foods. Goodwin explains that drinking one cup of peppermint tea twice or three times a day leading up to and during menstruation can soothe cramps. Relieve Muscle and Joint Pain If you are wondering if peppermint oil is good for pain, the answer is a resounding “yes!” I enjoy diffusing it and adding a drop to my breakfast smoothie to help boost my energy. For relief from stress, put a few drops of peppermint oil in a warm bath and soak in it for a while. Peppy and perfect, Peppermint essential oil is an all-time favorite! When applied topically to the forehead and temple area, peppermint essential oil may help reduce the pain related to migraines and tension headaches. Health Benefits of Peppermint Essential Oil. On the other hand, an animal study showed that mice given peppermint extracts gained more weight than the control group (27). I … While no studies have examined peppermint tea and digestion, it’s possible that the tea could have similar effects. Some of the many uses and benefits of peppermint oil include: 1. The confusion seems to stem from the fact that the terms “spearmint,” “mint” and “peppermint” were often used interchangeably before that. While there is no evidence from scientific studies that drinking peppermint tea has the same effect, the compounds in peppermint have been shown to improve breath. Related: 20 Of The Best Things You Can Do With Lemon Essential Oil. 5 Health Benefits of Peppermint Essential Oil. It has a fresh scent which is often associated with cleanliness and hygiene. The peppermint plant is a versatile perennial herb that has been cherished since ancient times. Peppermint tea is a delicious, naturally sweet, caffeine-free beverage that can safely be consumed at any time of day. Peppermint oil has so many benefits and uses! Peppermint tea may improve energy levels and reduce daytime fatigue. Because peppermint acts as a muscle relaxant, it may relieve menstrual cramps (2, 3). In one randomized 21-day study in 29 people with seasonal allergies, those given an oral supplement containing rosmarinic acid had fewer symptoms of itchy nose, itchy eyes and other symptoms than those given a placebo (31). However, you should only use FDA-approved brands and follow the label instructions precisely. 1. Additionally, many people consume peppermint as a refreshing, caffeine-free tea. Animal studies indicate that peppermint relaxes your digestive system and may ease pain. Looking for Peppermint essential oil uses? Herbal teas have a wide variety of tastes, flavors and even health benefits. While there are no studies on the antibacterial effects of peppermint tea, peppermint oil has been shown to effectively kill bacteria (2, 15). Pregnant or breastfeeding women should avoid oral dosing of peppermint oil. It can provide relief from mental fatigue and depression. In one study, 24 young, healthy people performed significantly better on cognitive tests when they were given peppermint oil capsules (18). Author: Lydia Workman. However, the results are mixed. While the reason for this health benefit is unclear, peppermint essential oil appears to help relieve symptoms in people with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). It is possible that peppermint tea could have similar effects. However, there is not much research on the effects of peppermint tea on weight. Peppermint tea is naturally calorie-free and has a pleasantly sweet flavor, which makes it a smart choice when you’re trying to lose weight. Peppermint Oil Benefits. Enjoy it as a post-meal treat to aid digestion, in the afternoon to boost your energy or before bed to help you relax. Try using it on an aching back, toothache, or tension headache. They are more of a therapeutic aid. Menthol gives peppermint its cooling properties and recognizably minty scent. Herbal teas are popular beverage choices when it comes time to relax and unwind. The Benefits of … Peppermint Essential Oil Benefits – Miscellaneous Examples In addition to the above-mentioned examples, it’s found that Peppermint is the best fit for other types of health concerns. Peppermint is a naturally occurring cross between the spearmint and watermint plants. Here are 12 science-backed benefits of peppermint tea and extracts. 4 Healthy Herbs to Grow Indoors This Winter. Whether its apart of your oral care routine or a means to soothe an upset stomach, chances are, you have experienced at least one of the many benefits of peppermint oil. 1) Dental Care While the aroma of peppermint tea may help relax muscles and improve headache pain, there is no supporting scientific evidence to confirm this effect. 10 More Uses. 3. Allergic reactions are rare but also possible. Peppermint helps clear the mind and promote mental and emotional clarity, relieve muscle aches and pains and can improve digestive health issues. The health benefits of peppermint oil include its ability to improve digestion, alleviate respiratory problems, headache, nausea, fever, stomach and bowel spasms, as well as pain. As one of the most sought out oils for headache relief and muscle pain, peppermint has proved itself one of the most versatile oils – and a must-have in your natural medicine cabinet. Both peppermint essential oil and lemon oil can help open up your airways during allergy season. The menthol in peppermint oil increases blood flow and provides a cooling sensation, possibly easing pain (8). The antacid can cause the protective coating on a peppermint oil capsule to break down too quickly. This article takes a closer look at eight science-based health benefits of mint. Peppermint oil is a natural insecticide. Spiders aren't technically insects, but they seem to hate the oil all the same. 3. Some risks of using peppermint essential oil are: Misuse can cause serious discomfort or even poisoning. Some people use peppermint essential oil in aromatherapy, applying diluted peppermint oil to the skin in a carrier oil or inhaling it through steam or a diffuser. Enjoy!Here are some of Peppermint essential oil's uses and benefits:1. Our website services, content, and products are for informational purposes only. Here are 10 healthy herbal teas you'll want to try today. Here's what you should know…, Essential oils are claimed to offer many health benefits. Arabian Journal of Chemistry: “Antibacterial and antioxidant activities of Mentha piperita L.”, BMC Complementary Medicine and Therapies: “The impact of peppermint oil on the irritable bowel syndrome: a meta-analysis of the pooled clinical data.”, Clinical, Cosmetic, and Investigational Dermatology: “Effectiveness of topical peppermint oil on symptomatic treatment of chronic pruritus.”, Clinical Radiology: “Spasmolytic effect of peppermint oil in barium during double-contrast barium enema compared with Buscopan.”, Cochrane Systematic Review: “Aromatherapy for treatment of postoperative nausea and vomiting.”, Gastrointestinal Endoscopy: “Peppermint oil reduces gastric spasm during upper endoscopy: a randomized, double-blind, double-dummy controlled trial.”, International Journal of Clinical Practice: “Cutaneous application of menthol 10% solution as an abortive treatment of migraine without aura: a randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled, crossed-over study.”. Because of this, peppermint tea may fight clogged sinuses due to infections, the common cold and allergies (15). Taking small amounts of peppermint oil has several potential benefits, including: Antioxidant During Certain Medical Procedures. Peppermint’s distinctive taste and smell make it a popular ingredient in certain foods and scented products. People have also used peppermint to treat digestive problems for thousands of years. While studies on the effects of peppermint tea on concentration are unavailable, two small studies have researched this beneficial effect of peppermint oil — taken by ingestion or inhalation. As mentioned before, they help calm and soothe sinuses, skin problems, or sore muscles. What Are Essential Oils, and Do They Work? More research is needed to determine the full health benefits of peppermint essential oil. Peppermint tea is delicious and easy to add to your diet. The smell of peppermint oil may help reduce nausea, particularly in patients who have had recent surgery. Peppermint Essential Oil Benefits. This key ingredient has been applied both cosmetically and medicinally for thousands of years, and records of peppermint oil use may be traced all the way back to ancient Egypt. Additionally, in a review of 14 clinical trials in nearly 2,000 children, peppermint reduced the frequency, length and severity of abdominal pain (6).