Less congestion and pain
Whether you choose to drink the tea or sniff the aromatic vapours, you will find peppermint an effective decongestant that thins mucus and reduces nasal inflammation. It may even reduce bronchial constriction and the tightening of the airways that accompanies asthma attacks.
If you get frequent headaches, try dabbing a little diluted peppermint oil on your forehead and temples. A small study of 32 headache patients found the oil an effective painkiller.
The menthol in peppermint has significant painkilling powers. Whether you’re an athlete or a weekend warrior, keep some peppermint oil (or a menthol-containing ointment) in your medicine chest to rub into sore muscles. As it’s to strong to use neat, mix a few drops with a tablespoon of a neutral carrier oil, such as sunflower or olive oil.
Because of its numbing properties, peppermint is also useful against toothache.
Like many essential oils, peppermint kills certain viruses and bacteria. Add a few drops of peppermint oil to a cup of water to make a minty, germ-killing mouthwash. Or to freshen your breath, place a drop or two of the oil on your tongue. (Alert Do not take more than this by mouth: It’s not just that the oil may upset the stomach; just a couple of teaspoons can be fatal.)
Teatime
Most people like the aroma and refreshing taste of peppermint tea. Drink a cup or two a day to ease or prevent digestive discomfort. You can also take enteric-coated capsules between meals, following the directions on the label (enteric-coated capsules pass through the stomach and are broken down in the intestines instead). Or add 10 to 20 drops of peppermint tincture, which is much less potent then the oil, to a glass of water and drink it as needed.
Cautions and Side Effects
Avoid if suffering from constipation or iron-deficiency anemia. Get professional advice before using if you are breastfeeding. May relax the oesophageal sphincter, increasing the risk of heartburn: use the herb cautiously if you are prone to acid reflux. Also use with caution if you have an inflammatory or ulceractive disorder to the digestive tract, such as ulceractive colitis. Use the oil with care as it may cause sensitivity reactions in the mouth and airways.
