The Health Benefits Of Peppermint Oil
Indigestion Peppermint oil is very helpful in digestion as it has a carminative property of expelling gas .
Massage several drops on your abdomen, place a drop on your wrists or inhale to soothe motion sickness or general nausea. Drinking mint tea has long been the antidote to an upset stomach. Inhaling peppermint oil is also said to help curb the appetite by triggering a sense of fullness.
Colds/Congestion Menthol provides effective relief from many respiratory problems including nasal congestion, sinusitis, asthma, bronchitis and the common cold and cough. It is often included as an ingredient in natural chest rubs to help with congestion.
Massage 2-3 drops onto chest or drop into a humidifier to help clear sinus and lung congestion. If your head is feeling stuffed or you cant stop coughing, try a peppermint essential oil steam.
Headache Peppermint oil is terrific to keep on hand at your desk or in your purse, especially if you are prone to headaches. The use of this oil has also been known to lessen symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, sensitivity to noise and sensitivity to light.
With a small amount of almond or other carrier oil and a drop of peppermint oil, rub on your temples, forehead, over the sinuses , and on the back of the neck to help soothe headache and pressure.
For stress relief, the combination of peppermint, lavender and geranium essential oils added to a warm bath help relieve stiffness while absorbed through the skin.
And the list of uses goes on
How Does Peppermint Oil Work For Pain Relief
Now that weve seen some evidence that peppermint oil is effective for relieving tension headaches, its worth taking a look at the theories proposed to explain its efficacy. Once again, the researchers in Kiel provide us with the best answers so far. In a 1995 paper published in the journal Phytomedicine, Göbel et al, describe a number of potential mechanisms by which peppermint oil exerts an analgesic effect, namely that peppermint oil:
- Alters calcium channels in the cold-receptors of the skin, causing a cooling sensation
- Inhibits non-competitively 5-hydroxytryptophan and substance P induced smooth muscle contractin
- Significantly increases blood flow to teh area of application .
The last mechanism in this list has been observed using laser doppler to measure blood flow and the effect on calcium channels has also been observed in animal studies . In other animal research, peppermint oil has been found to affect the contractile response to acetylcholine, histamine, 5-hydroxytryptamine, and substance P , providing a variety of potential pathways by which peppermint may exert an analgesic effct in both tension headaches and other pain conditions.
Pain Relief Without The Need For A Presciption
If you are suffering from back Massage therapy can also be integrated as a treatment option. Stay active so you can lower your risk of experiencing lower back pain, essential oils maybe something to help relieve your pain.
Essential oils are very powerful.
They are great for both acute and chronic Charlotte chiropractor. The pain and can help with both muscle tension and inflammation.
If you are nervous about the current opioid addiction that is sweeping our country, essential oils for back pain may be the light at the end of the tunnel for pain relief.
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Eucalyptus Essential Oil + Peppermint Essential Oil For Joint Pains:
This natural remedy is another way of using peppermint oil for joint pains.It may go a long way in helping you soothe chronic problems like arthritis. But, do not forget that you would be required to take other medications and physiotherapy sessions alongside as well.
Prepare a blend of eucalyptus oil and peppermint oil in the same proportion and mix them in a carrier oil. We recommend olive oil for being able to provide the joint strengthen and serve as a lubricant. Apply this blend on your joint pain thrice a day at least for four weeks. You would see the difference. Also, you can prepare the blend in advance and save it in a dark colored glass bottle away from direct sunlight.
Peppermint Oil For Headaches And Migraines
Some essential oils are a step above the rest when it comes to relieving throbbing temples, and peppermint oil is one of them. Its high content of menthol is an excellent pain reliever, helping to desensitize pain fibers through the nervous system. Its cooling abilities also help to decrease feelings of pain and relieve tension.
To use peppermint oil for tension headache and migraine relief, you can breathe in its soothing scent. If inhaling it directly is too overpowering, you can also diffuse it. Another method would be to dilute the oil in a skin-friendly carrier oil and gently massage it onto your forehead and temples.
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Peppermint Essential Oil Recipes To Combat Joint Pain
Living with joint pain can be daunting physically and emotionally. In total, we have about 360 joints in our body. So if youre experiencing pain in your joints, its no surprise that the pain can interfere with your school or work performance and eventually lead to emotional distress. Therefore, combating joint pain is important for normal functioning and movement in your everyday life.
Researchers suggest that if youre experiencing chronic joint pain, youre at risk for depression caused by emotional distress due to prolonged pain. Joint pain can also minimize movement, making it difficult for you to enjoy daily activities, such as cooking, running, or even walking. Similarly, if you have acute joint pain or short-term joint pain that keeps coming back, it can reduce your quality of life and cause physical and emotional suffering.
Fortunately, there are natural ways to combat joint pain, such as using peppermint essential oil!
Opens Up The Respiratory Tract
Being a decongestant, peppermint oil clears the nose and respiratory tract. Inhaling the aroma or applying the oil topically ensures smooth breathing. The oil is best when blended with tea tree oil and applied on the chest. Generally, the side effects of peppermint oil are less and can be used by anyone however, the amount of peppermint oil must be taken within recommended levels.
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Peppermint Oil Has Pain Relieving Properties
The main symptom of arthritis is pain and joint stiffness. It can be reduced with the help of medical and some non-medical therapies like diet, exercise or aromatherapy etc.
Peppermint oil has been proven to have pain-relieving effects upon application onto the skin by causing a tingling sensation.
Menthol is one of the main ingredients in almost all the topical pain relief balms and it improves drug entry through the skin.
Aromatherapy with a mixture of peppermint oil and other essential oil has been proven to reduce pain in arthritis patients.
Research also shows that a mixture of essential oil that includes peppermint is beneficial for pain reduction.
Animal studies have shown that peppermint oil interferes with the pain pathway in the body which ultimately reduces the pain giving an analgesic effect.
However, there is a shortage of studies on the use of peppermint oil alone for pain in arthritis.
What does this mean? Peppermint oil can reduce pain when it is applied onto the skin. This effect is mainly due to menthol content in it which interferes with the pain pathway in the body.
What Is Peppermint Oil
Peppermint is a hybrid species of spearmint and water mint . The essential oils are gathered by CO2 or cold extraction of the fresh aerial parts of the flowering plant.
The most active ingredients include menthol and menthone .
Forms
You can find peppermint in several forms, including peppermint essential oil, peppermint leaves, peppermint spray and peppermint tablets. The active ingredients in peppermint give the leaves their invigorating and energizing effects.
Menthol oil is commonly used in balms, shampoos and other body products for its beneficial properties.
History
Not only is peppermint oil one of the oldest European herbs used for medicinal purposes, but other historical accounts date its use to ancient Japanese and Chinese folk medicine. Its also mentioned in Greek mythology when the nymph Mentha was transformed into a sweet-smelling herb by Pluto, who had fallen in love with her and wanted people to appreciate her for years to come.
The many peppermint oil uses have been documented back to 1000 B.C. and have been found in several Egyptian pyramids.
Today, peppermint oil is recommended for its anti-nausea impacts and soothing effects on the gastric lining and colon. Its also valued for its cooling effects and helps relieve sore muscles when used topically.
In addition to this, peppermint essential oil displays antimicrobial properties, which is why it can be used to fight infections and even freshen your breath. Pretty impressive, right?
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Back Pain: Reduce Soreness And Joint Inflammation With This Essential Oil
Back pain is common and usually improves within a few weeks. While painkillers are one common form of treatment, some experts recommend essential oils to reduce soreness. CSO encourages several methods of non-surgical pain management and one possible way to manage acute pain is with peppermint essential oil. However, we always advise you consult with a physician at CSO to determine the best treatment plan for your condition. Read more about essential oils for back pain below.
Back pain in the lower back is particularly common, but other places people experience it include the upper back, and on their left and right hand side.
In the majority of cases, the pain is not caused by anything serious and will usually get better over time.
A GP can examine your back and recommend the best form of treatment. Painkillers and certain exercises are usually recommended, but some health experts say essential oils are the best way to reduce inflammation.
One essential oil in particular nutritionist Dr Josh Axe recommends is peppermint oil.
On his site it states: Peppermint and wintergreen oil are effective analgesics that cool inflamed joints and reduce back pain. You can mix these oils with coconut oil and rub onto joints or make a homemade muscle rub.
Frankincense and cypress oil are also said to reduce inflammation and improve circulation, which improves back pain.
Complete and original article posted on express.co.uk
Why Try Essential Oils
Back pain is one of the most common complaints doctors receive and is the leading reason for missed work days . Common conditions like sciatica and rheumatism manifest through joint pain, nerve pain and muscle tension in the back .
Doctors often recommend nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, such as ibuprofen and naproxen . However, if used over a long period of time, these options carry negative side effects like stomach pain and ulcers. Even worse are highly-addictive opioids, which have historically been over-prescribed by doctors, resulting in the current opioid crisis .
Aromatherapy, which refers to the medicinal or therapeutic use of essential oils absorbed through the skin or through smell, dates back to medieval Persia , offers a simpler approach to pain management which may be worth trying.
Essential oils are derived from plants usingsteam distillation, mechanical pressing, or grating and peeling . Using these processes, the liquid oil solution retains the natural smell and flavor of its source.
Despite the long history of essential oils being used to treat sore muscles and back pain, there is limited research on its effectiveness. Nevertheless, early results are positive. A 2016 study showed that the use of aromatherapy with essential oils resulted in significant improvement in pain ” rel=”nofollow”> 6). Another study released in the International Journal of Molecular Sciences revealed that essential oils exhibit anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties .
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Causes Of Muscle Aches
Pain in the muscles is usually caused by either overworking them or by a strain or sprain injury. When the muscles are overworked due to partaking in some unaccustomed activity or by pushing the body too hard, lactic acid builds up in the muscles, making them sticky and hard to move. This is what causes the pain.
Sciatica Nerve Pain Blend For Daily Use
If you want a general sciatica nerve pain blend that you can use for day to day basis, you can try this recipe:
4 drops of chamomile essential oil
3 drops of marjoram
3 drops of helichrysum essential oil
2 drops of lavender
15 ml of carrier oil
1 small glass spray bottle
Pour all of the ingredients above in the small glass spray bottle. Place the cap and shake well by rolling the spray bottle between your palms. Apply and gently massage on areas where you experience nerve pain.
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Peppermint Essential Oil In Aroma Diffuser
One of the most popular ways to enjoy peppermint essential oil is by using it with an aroma diffuser. It freshens up the air indoors with its clean and minty scent for better mental focus throughout the day.
On top of this, inhaling the scent of peppermint can also help you keep colds at bay, thanks to its anti-inflammatory nature which calms irritated nasal passages. It also helps with headaches and migraines.
To use the refreshing peppermint in a diffuser, add a few drops, about 3 to 5 drops per every 100ml of distilled water. Make sure to not go overboard or the scent could end up too overpowering, causing headaches and nausea.
What Have We Learned
- A small amount of research suggests that peppermint oil in enteric-coated capsules may improve IBS symptoms in adults.
- One small study suggests that peppermint oil in enteric-coated capsules may reduce abdominal pain in some children.
- A few studies have indicated that specific products containing peppermint oil plus caraway oil and specific combination products that include peppermint leaves may help relieve indigestion. But there isnât any evidence showing that taking peppermint oil alone can help. In fact, peppermint oil taken alone may worsen indigestion in some people and cause unwanted side effects.
- A limited amount of evidence suggests that peppermint oil applied topically might be beneficial for tension headaches.
- Peppermint oil in a gel, water, or cream applied topically to the nipple area of breastfeeding women might be helpful for reducing pain and cracked skin. Menthol, which is in peppermint oil, should not be inhaled by or applied to the face of an infant or small child because it may negatively affect their breathing. Peppermint oil should therefore be used only after breastfeeding and then wiped off before the next breastfeeding session.
- A small amount of research suggests that peppermint oil might be helpful to reduce spasms during certain procedures, such as endoscopy or barium enema examination.
- Thereâs not enough evidence to allow any conclusions to be reached about whether peppermint oil is helpful for other conditions.
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Peppermint Oil For Tension Headaches And Neck Pain
German researchers it seems are way ahead when it comes to investigating natural remedies for neck pain and tension headaches. Articles published in 1994 and 1996 note the benefits of using peppermint oil for tension headache relief over conventional treatments such as acetaminophen. So how does peppermint oil help with pain relief and will it also work for your neck pain?
In the 1994 study, German scientists at the University of Kiels Neurological Clinic compared peppermint oil and eucalyptus oil preparations agaisnt placebo. To keep the patients unaware of whether they were receiving the placebo or the oil remedy the researchers added trace amounts of peppermint simply to make the solutions smell similar. In the actual remedy a concentration of 10% peppermint oil to ethanol was used, or a combination of eucalyptus and peppermint oil.
Recipe : Cooling Peppermint Oil Blend For Sunburn Pain Relief
Peppermint oil is known for its cooling effects when applied to the skin. One scientific study investigated the sun protection factors of sunscreen formulas with different essential oils. They found peppermint oil to be one of the top two oils that showed a high sun protection factor . With this finding, researchers have been able to advise sunscreen manufacturers to include peppermint oil in their formulas.
Check out this recipe, which uses a mixture of peppermint and lavender essential oils with aloe vera to a sunburn healing blend.
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Recipe : Peppermint Oil Rub To Alleviate Pain
Peppermint oil has been shown to be an excellent remedy for alleviating pain. In fact, in one study, researchers investigated the effects of peppermint cream on neck pain. They found that the group assigned to apply 2 g of peppermint cream to the affected area daily experienced much less pain compared to the group that didnt apply the peppermint cream.
Try this simple peppermint oil rub to soothe your pain.
Its Scent Can Alleviate The Common Cold
Peppermint oil has an effectiveness thats equal to over-the-counter medications and vapour rubs. It has cleansing ingredients, along with antiseptic and antibacterial properties, that fight off bacteria and viruses that are prone to causing colds, while the anti-inflammatory properties ease the discomfort of having a sore throat.
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Using Peppermint Cold Compresses
A cold compress is used to help relieve inflammation and swelling at a point of injury such as a strain or sprain, where massaging directly over the injured area is not recommended. Add 2 drops of peppermint to a pint of cold water in which six ice cubes have been dissolved. Soak a flannel in the water and then lay it directly over the affected area. The cooling properties of the ice and peppermint, along with peppermints analgesic and analgesic properties, will help to reduce swelling and discomfort.
Can Peppermint Oil Go In Food
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.
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