Many botanicals and herbal extracts are added to many products these days. But few have the therapeutic, nutritional and culinary values of peppermint. In the old days, chewing on a sprig of peppermint leaf was thought to help the patient suffering from stomachaches or upset stomach. Peppermint has antiseptic and antibiotic properties. It has been used in the treatment of urinary infections, ischemic colitis, bronchial infections, impotence and gastric problems.
In ancient times, people believed that chewing on peppermint would keep the stomach happy and prevent vomiting. Peppermint tea and capsules are also prescribed by doctors to aid in digestion and as a stomach remedy for gastric trouble. One third of peppermint oil is composed of volatile oils, which are responsible for the bitter taste of this essential oil.
Its antibacterial and antiseptic properties make it a good essential oil suitable for various respiratory problems. Peppermint oil helps to stimulate the immune system. It has been shown to regulate coughing and helps fight pneumonia, measles, colds, influenza and bronchitis. In experiments with guinea pigs, it was proved that menthol reduces the incidence of bacterial pneumonia. The animals were exposed to minute quantities of menthol every day and the incidence of pneumonia was reduced by almost 50%.
Peppermint oil possesses numerous antiseptic, anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties which make it a good remedy for cough and colds. It is often used as a cough suppressant. Its antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties relieve inflammation and pain. It can be applied to cuts and bruises and to hemorrhoids. Menthol is often used as an analgesic and as a stomachic to treat indigestion, heartburn and sprains.
Menthol is extracted from the leaves of Mentha Piperita tree. This essential oil is extracted in the same way as for rosewood oil. A process called cold pressing is followed to extract the oil. After the extraction process, the oil is light, oily and greenish-yellow in color. The extract can be mixed with other essential oils or just directly applied to the skin.
The peppermint essential oil has many uses and benefits. It is usually applied to the skin on the outside of the body. To improve digestion and relieve colic pains, take one to two drops of peppermint oil mixed with a glass of water. Or, use as a holistic remedy: mix three to five drops of peppermint oil with a glass of water and drink.