Every essential oil offers some or the other form of benefit, and using them in the right way can offer relief from a lot of problems. Some of the most popular essential oils used in beauty are lavender and tea tree, but did you know peppermint oil can also be used to enhance your beauty? It is one ingredient that offers a plethora of beauty and health benefits. There are countless ways to add this essential oil to your skin or hair care routine and we will tell you how to use peppermint oil to enhance your beauty here, but not before revealing its types and uses.

1. Types of peppermint oil

Peppermint oil is available in a variety of forms, here are some common ones:

• Essential oil: a liquid extracted from the leaves, stems, roots, flowers and barks of the peppermint plant, this is highly potent and should be used carefully.
• Peppermint extract: a diluted form that is usually added to food, to give it a minty flavour
• Peppermint capsules: taken as a dietary supplement for its health benefits.

The sharp smell of peppermint oil can be very soothing and relaxing and its chemical components are menthol and menthone. It is found in a lot of mouth fresheners and mouthwashes, as it helps in getting rid of bad breath and odour. However, peppermint oil can also be used on skin and hair to address common problems, below are all the benefits of using peppermint oil.

2. Benefits of peppermint oil for skin

i) Soothes skin irritation –

The soothing and cooling effect of peppermint makes it an excellent oil for itchy and irritated skin. Due to its antiseptic and antibacterial properties, peppermint oil is recommended to those suffering from psoriasis for relief. However, this oil is potent and therefore should never be applied on the skin directly and in its undiluted form.

ii) Reduces acne –

Due to its antimicrobial property, peppermint oil kills acne-causing bacteria. It balances sebum production, thereby preventing pore clogging and acne. Did you know peppermint oil also forms a protective barrier on the skin, thus preventing external aggressors from damaging it? If you have oily skin, you should definitely give this natural ingredient a try to get rid of problems associated with your skin type.

3. Benefits of peppermint oil for hair

i) Tackles dandruff –

Scalp infections and dandruff are common in a country like India, where the weather is humid for the most part of the year. However, this problem can be tackled easily with the help of peppermint essential oil. The antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties of this essential oil help with scalp dryness and itching. When applied topically, it can address dandruff and other infections.

ii) Promotes hair growth –

Apart from tackling dandruff and scalp problems, peppermint oil also has the ability to promote hair growth. When massaged on the scalp, this oil increases blood circulation and stimulates hair follicles, thereby promoting hair growth. Since it also clears the scalp, this leads to healthy and thick hair growth. The strong menthol smell can also remove lice from the hair.

4. Benefits of peppermint oil for health

i) Relieves pain –

Headaches, migraine as well as sore muscle pain can be relieved with the help of peppermint oil. This is one of the reasons why it is used in aromatherapy, as it relaxes your mind and calms your senses. Topical application of peppermint oil is known to offer relief from migraine for longer duration’s.

ii) Helps with gastrointestinal conditions –

Peppermint oil is also the answer to a lot of digestive issues like heartburn, indigestion, bloating and gas. A natural carminative, this oil relaxes the abdominal muscles thereby relieving flatulence. This helps in digestion as well as clearing the stomach. Since it is a natural remedy for gastrointestinal conditions, it has no side effects.

5. FAQs about peppermint oil benefits

1) Is it safe to drink peppermint oil?

A. Food grade peppermint oil is safe for drinking, however, if you can’t find it, simply dilute peppermint essential oil with a carrier oil and massage the area where you need relief.

2) Does peppermint oil promotes better sleep?

A. While peppermint has a soothing and calming effect on the mind and body, there is little evidence to prove if it promotes better sleep. You can use lavender essential oil instead.

3) What is peppermint oil used for?

A. Apart from relieving skin conditions and scalp problems, peppermint oil also helps with digestion and pain relief. It can also be used around the house to keep bugs and flies at bay.

4) Are there any side effects of using peppermint oil?

A. When used sparingly, essential oils generally don’t have any side effects. However, if proper instructions are not followed, peppermint oil can cause heartburn, headache, mouth sores, etc. Therefore, caution is recommended while using any essential oil.