Peppermint is one of the oldest herbs that was used for medical purposes. Peppermint is a crossbreed species of water mint and spearmint. The essential oils are collected using the method of steam distillation of the fresh floating parts of the flowering plant. The ingredients that are predominant in these plants include menthone and menthol.
- Preventing nipple crack and pain: The greatest cause of stopping to breastfeed prematurely is the pain caused by cracked nipples.
- Teething pain: Pain associated to teething problems can be very uncomfortable for a baby. Peppermint is a natural relief for teething issues and provides instant relief in infants. Just mix equal parts of peppermint oil and coconut oil, and then dub it to the gum area.
- Colic remedy: Colic is by far a mother’s worst nightmare.
- Energy boost: Being a mother is one of the most tasking jobs. There is a time when you need a boost of energy just to get this done. Instead of loading up on chemical-filled energy drinks or caffeine, peppermint can be a natural alternative. This essential oil helps in improving concentration and focus. You can also inhale peppermint before and after a workout to help enhance your mood and reduce fatigue.
- Reduce fever: Fever in children is a common occurrence and it comes at the worst times like in the middle of the night. The next time your child gets a fever do not panic; just use peppermint essential oil. Instead of using drugs, mix peppermint oil and coconut oil and rub on your child’s neck and the bottom of their feet to get rid of the fever.
- Remedy for sinuses: Peppermint can help clear respiratory tract-related issues like asthma, bronchitis, sinusitis, cough, and colds since it acts as a decongestant and expectorant. It can be rubbed on the chest or inhaled through a vaporizer and it helps relieve cold and cough symptoms and clear nasal congestion.
- Bloating and indigestion: peppermint is one of the oldest herbs that has been used to sooth digestion issues. It relaxes the muscles of your intestines, reducing gas and bloating significantly. It is a great natural alternative for Buscopan. It can be rubbed onto the stomach, mixed into a glass of drinking water or taken as tea before meals, while inhaled peppermint helps control appetite by triggering a sense of fullness.
- ADHD: if your child gets easily distracted or suffers from ADHD, rub some peppermint on his shirt; place a drop on his tongue to help improve his alertness and concentration.
It is important to note that most essential oils are highly concentrated and peppermint oil is more concentrated than most of the oils. Essentially, topical application of peppermint oil is safe, but it is necessary to dilute it with carrier oil like coconut oil, jojoba or almond oil. This is especially when you are using it on children. Allergic reactions and burning sensation has been reported on people with sensitive skin.
