Peppermint Oil: Uses and Benefits

Peppermint oil is a popular essential oil derived from the peppermint plant known for its refreshing aroma and cooling sensation.
Category
Essential oil
Where to get
Widely available for purchase at health stores and online.
Applicable for
Prepared by Lee Cheng, reviewed by Jane Cox

Peppermint Oil FAQ


Image credit: purebodynaturals.com

What is peppermint essential oil?

Peppermint is an aromatic herb in the mint family. It’s a hybrid mint that’s a cross between spearmint and watermint. It can be found naturally in North America and Europe. Peppermint essential oil can be extracted from the leaves of the peppermint plant and is used for a variety of purposes.

What is peppermint oil used for?

Peppermint oil is commonly used as flavoring in foods and beverages and as a fragrance in soaps and cosmetics. Peppermint oil also is used for a variety of health conditions and can be taken orally in dietary supplements or topically as a skin cream or ointment. (Photo credit: iStock/Getty Images)

Where does peppermint oil come from?

Peppermint oil is extracted from the leaves and flowers of the peppermint plant, which grows throughout Europe and North America. Peppermint is a mix between two types of mint - water mint and spearmint. What does peppermint oil do? Peppermint oil can be used in so many ways.

What are the health benefits of peppermint oil?

The oil contains numerous minerals and nutrients including manganese, iron, magnesium, calcium, folate, potassium, and copper. It also contains omega-3 fatty acids, vitamin A, and vitamin C. The health benefits of this oldest medicinal oil include the following: Peppermint oil can be used externally to provide relief from muscle pain.

Peppermint Oil References

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