Peppermint…… yeeeesssss…. So darn refreshing! Peppermint, like Lavender is an incredibly versatile essential oil. I bet half of the uses I mention in this article, you had no idea that peppermint could do. If Lavender is the “Swiss Army Knife” of EOs, than Peppermint is its sidekick. I’m so excited to share just a few of my favorite uses for this ultra arid oil. Let’s dig into some of its many physical and mental benefits.

Now last week, I challenged you all to try a drop or two of peppermint in your water when you have heartburn or a tummy ache. How’d that work for you? It’s my absolute go to if any one starts to feel queasy or I’m having a revenge of the Nachos night. Just make sure when adding it to your drinks, to either shake it or stir it really well. You can also take it in a gel capsule. Just 2-3 drops will do.

Peppermint is anti-bacterial, anti-inflammatory, and anti-septic. No wonder it’s one of the main ingredients in a lot of mouthwashes. With its ability to kill germs and fight off cavity causing bacteria, it sure beats having a mouthful of alcohol and chemical laden brands that shall not be named. The next time you need to stock up on mouthwash, try this recipe:

In a small jar mix these ingredients:

½ cup of Distilled Water

2 tsp of Baking Soda

2 drops Tea Tree EO

2 drops of Peppermint EO

Shake before each use and gargle with it daily.

And how about some support with our achy joints?! I know I could use that! Have you ever seen athletes after a hard game or particularly taxing practice, and they’re sitting in an ice bath? I equate that with taking a swim in the Atlantic during winter. No thank you. Instead of taking a polar dip, how about using peppermint’s amazing anti-inflammatory properties to do the same thing and not risk hypothermia? Try mixing a quarter size dollop of carrier oil and two drops each of lavender and peppermint and rub all over those tired joints and see how great you feel in no time!

And we all know about Peppermint when we get stuffy and sick. Well, not only does it help to clear your nasal passages by reducing the swelling in there, it also acts as an expectorant to help loosen up all that gunk in your sinuses and lungs that’s making it hard to breathe. Just add that to your diffuser and plant you face in front of it. You’ll feel better in no time.

AND, you know what else peppermint is great for, scalp support! It helps to stimulate oil production to help relieve dry-scalp and dandruff. Also, Lice hate it! Yep, you heard me. The next time your kiddos come home with the threat of the creepy crawlies, rub some peppermint and a carrier oil into their hair, let it sit for a few and then comb out in of those nasty nits. And they won’t come back either. You could even do a light mist of peppermint and distilled water all over their hair to ward them off!

And speaking of bugs, I am an equal opportunity bug hater. And you know what the number one EO that bugs hate the most? You guessed it! PEPPERMINT.  Especially spiders. I sure wish I would’ve had some peppermint around when I found that tarantula in my sink a couple years back. *Shudders* Make this bug spray and every manner of bug will run for the hills:

In an 8 oz bottle mix:

Distilled water

10-15 drops of peppermint

Simple, huh? The more peppermint, the more repelling it is. Spray that around your window and door frames, corners of your ceiling, kitchen and bathroom cabinets, anywhere where you see any manner of bug congregating. It works on mice, too.

And lastly, scientists at the University of Cincinnati have found that if you diffuse or spray peppermint on you kids right before they take a test, it increases their mental accuracy by 28%! Wow, did someone say ace some SATs? It also helps with people prone to ADHD, like myself. It helps to improve focus, concentration, and alertness. Just put a quick spritz on their shirt before they go into class.

Wow! I am refreshingly invigorated by the thought of Peppermint EO! My fingers even feel minty fresh just typing all of these great pepperminty uses! If you have any questions about anything you’ve read today, please don’t hesitate to comment or email me at thecurrentoilco@gmail.com. We love feedback, so don’t be shy! Now go spray some peppermint around and be super alert and bug-free! *Hee-Hee*