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Peppermint oil has anti-inflammatory properties and soothes the nerves. Rub into the temples and forehead when a headache starts and rub; repeat every 15-30 minutes for added relief. Available for $7 at health food stores.
This content originally appeared on doctoroz.com
This content originally appeared on doctoroz.com
Peppermint oil is probably best known for its ability to relieve an “irritable bowel." However, this powerful “tummy tamer” has many other benefits.
Some studies have reported peppermint to be helpful for:
Peppermint is a very strong oil and shouldn’t be placed in any sensitive areas. It is also important to avoid the eyes when applying peppermint, or you’re in for a stinging sensation!
Peppermint oil can be diluted with an organic carrier oil, such as coconut or olive oil, and applied to the belly or sore muscles. It is best inhaled for helping mood and headaches.
References:
Gobel, H., Schmidt, G., Soyka, D. (1994). Effect of peppermint and eucalyptus oil preparations on neurophysiological and experimental algesimetric headache parameters. Cephalalgia, 14, 228-34.
Pittler, M. H., Ernst, E. (1998). Peppermint oil for irritable bowel syndrome: a critical review and metaanalysis. The American Journal of Gastroenterology, 93(7), 1131-5.
Anderson, L., Gross, J. (2004). Aromatherapy with peppermint, isopropyl alcohol, or placebo is equally effective in relieving postoperative nausea. Journal of Peri-Anesthesia Nursing, 19, (1), 29-35.
Barker S, Grayhem P, Koon J, Perkins J, Whalen A, Raudenbush B. Improved performance on clerical tasks associated with administration of peppermint odor. Percept Mot Skills. 2003 Dec;97(3 Pt 1):1007-10.
PM Moss M, Hewitt S, Moss L, Wesnes K. Modulation of cognitive performance and mood by aromas of peppermint and ylang-ylang. Int J Neurosci. 2008 Jan;118(1):59-77.ID: 14738372
Dig Endosc. 2012 Mar;24(2):79-86. doi: 10.1111/j.1443-1661.2011.01163.x. Epub 2011 Jun 1
Some studies have reported peppermint to be helpful for:
- Headaches
- Pain
- Mood
- Cognitive Performance
- Muscle Spasms
- Nausea
Peppermint is a very strong oil and shouldn’t be placed in any sensitive areas. It is also important to avoid the eyes when applying peppermint, or you’re in for a stinging sensation!
Peppermint oil can be diluted with an organic carrier oil, such as coconut or olive oil, and applied to the belly or sore muscles. It is best inhaled for helping mood and headaches.
References:
Gobel, H., Schmidt, G., Soyka, D. (1994). Effect of peppermint and eucalyptus oil preparations on neurophysiological and experimental algesimetric headache parameters. Cephalalgia, 14, 228-34.
Pittler, M. H., Ernst, E. (1998). Peppermint oil for irritable bowel syndrome: a critical review and metaanalysis. The American Journal of Gastroenterology, 93(7), 1131-5.
Anderson, L., Gross, J. (2004). Aromatherapy with peppermint, isopropyl alcohol, or placebo is equally effective in relieving postoperative nausea. Journal of Peri-Anesthesia Nursing, 19, (1), 29-35.
Barker S, Grayhem P, Koon J, Perkins J, Whalen A, Raudenbush B. Improved performance on clerical tasks associated with administration of peppermint odor. Percept Mot Skills. 2003 Dec;97(3 Pt 1):1007-10.
PM Moss M, Hewitt S, Moss L, Wesnes K. Modulation of cognitive performance and mood by aromas of peppermint and ylang-ylang. Int J Neurosci. 2008 Jan;118(1):59-77.ID: 14738372
Dig Endosc. 2012 Mar;24(2):79-86. doi: 10.1111/j.1443-1661.2011.01163.x. Epub 2011 Jun 1
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