The Mentha piperita herb, more commonly known as peppermint, reaches up to 88.9 centimetres in height and produces dark-green, fragrant leaves covered in fine hairs. The plant produces no seeds, but spreads through an underground network of rhizomes.

The plant's leaves and flowers are used to obtain the essential oil, via steam distillation. Around 50 percent of the oil is composed of menthol.

Other uses of peppermint oil include the treatment of insomnia, headaches, nervousness and muscle spasms.
When added to hot water, the menthol-rich vapors are inhaled to relieve congestion.
When applied topically, the oil is believed to relieve sore muscles and joints, and to soothe dry, itchy skin.

Peppermint is used in soaps and shampoos to produce a minty scent. In balms it provides a cooling sensation to the skin.

In aromatherapy, peppermint oil is believed to invigorate the mind, improve the mood and relieve tension or anxiety. The essential oil is also used as a natural pesticide in some commercial products.

Cautions: Very potent and not to be used on sensitive skin. Avoid use during pregnancy.

Important note: The information provided is for educational purposes only. It is not considered complete and is not guaranteed to be accurate.

General safety information: Do not take any oils internally.
Do not apply undiluted essential oils, absolutes, CO2s or other concentrated essences onto the skin.
If you are pregnant, epileptic, have liver damage, have cancer, or have any other medical problem, use oils only under the proper guidance of a qualified aromatherapy practitioner.
Use extreme caution when using oils with children and give children only the gentlest oils at extremely low doses.
It is safest to consult a qualified aromatherapy practitioner before using oils with children.
A skin patch test should be conducted prior to using an oil that you've never used before.

Everyday, super simple uses for essential oils

Essential oils are used to fragrance soap (2%-3%), balms (0.5%), skin creams and butters (0.5%).