Peppermint Oil and Massage

If peppermint oil isn’t already an essential part of your medicine cabinet, it should be! It can be used to relieve nausea and stomach issues, energize and refresh you when you are feeling fatigued, cool overworked muscles, clear congestion, soothe headaches, and freshen your breath. As it is more concentrated that most essential oils, always remember to dilute with carrier oil before use.

The health benefits of peppermint oil include:

Indigestion:

  • Massage several drops on your stomach, place a drop on wrists or inhale to soothe motion sickness or general nausea.
  • Drinking mint tea has traditionally been the way to soothe an upset stomach.

Colds/Congestion:

  • Massage 2-3 drops onto chest or drop into a humidifier to help clear sinus and lung congestion.
  • If your head is feeling stuffed or you can’t stop coughing, try steaming with peppermint oil. Pour boiling water into a metal or glass bowl, and add a few drops of essential oil. Drape a towel over your head and position your face 10-12 inches above the bowl and breathe in the steam.

Stress:

  • The combination of peppermint, lavender and geranium essential oils added to a warm bath help relieve stiffness and relax your muscles.
  • Put peppermint oil in a diffuser to keep your mind at peace (and relieve headaches).

Energy/Alertness:

  • Rub a drop of oil under you nose to help improve concentration and alertness.
  • Diffuse peppermint oil in the room to improve concentration.
  • Apply to the back of the neck and shoulders repeatedly to keep energy levels up during the day.
  • Inhale before and during a workout to help boost your mood and reduce fatigue.

Peppermint oil can also be used to treat itchy bug bites, dandruff, aching muscles and feet, and even ant infestations!

One of the best ways to use peppermint oil to calm down and relax is through scalp massage. If you are suffering from an itchy scalp, bruising, tightness, or inflammation, a peppermint oil scalp massage should be your first step toward relief.

Keep in mind that peppermint oil is much more concentrated that most other essential oils. A small amount is more than enough for your scalp; 3-5 drops daily is enough to receive all the benefits without further irritating your scalp. Of course, so few drops will not be enough to cover your scalp, and should therefore be diluted with a carrier oil of your choice. It is recommended to use at least 1 teaspoon oil per 3-5 drops peppermint oil. If you have sensitive skin, skip the peppermint!