Peppermint (Mentha piperita)

Peppermint is a very versatile oil and a good staple in any aromatherapy kit. It can be used for nausea, headaches, muscle aches and pains, cooling a fever, digestive complaints, freshening the breath and mental exhaustion.

Peppermint has a long traditional use and is also rich in folklore. According to Roman mythology Pluto fell in love with the nymph Mentha. When his wife Persephone heard about this she was enraged and in a fit of jealousy she crushed Mentha into dust upon the ground. Although Pluto could not change her back into a nymph he did transform her into a peppermint plant, with a fresh fragrance so that whenever she was walked on she would smell sweet. Since ancient times Mint has been cultivated and used for its medicinal properties. It has been found in Egyptian tombs dating back to 1000BC; the Japanese have been growing it to obtain menthol for at least 2,000 years; one of the garden herbs of which the Pharisees paid tithes (Matt. 23:23; Luke 11:42); The Romans apparently brought it with them as they marched through Europe and into Britain and from there it made its way to America with the settlers. Herbal folklore apparently dictates that rubbing peppermint on the feet of your lover will strengthen your devotion towards one another. A mini profile on Peppermint can be found on the website.

On a subtle level Peppermint is said to activate intuition and the Higher Mind. The Higher Mind calms memories of terror, hysteria and fear of the unknown. Peppermint can cool any resistance to new information. Peppermint clarifies and promotes clarity in communication and concentration. Peppermint also promotes healthy self-esteem, integrity and ethics. It can aid one in discovering one’s hidden gifts and strengths. It calms the nerves while it stimulates the conscious mind. And promotes inspiration and insights. Peppermint can help to dispel the Ego and also assist in overcoming feelings of inferiority. It is cleansing and helpful to those who want to live an ethical life. It is used in purification blends. Peppermint can increase sensitivity, awareness and perception, bringing an alertness, even in the dream state that helps one to remember and take in the wisdom from other worlds.

Generally considered non-toxic. Avoid in pregnancy. Keep away from children

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