Peppermint Essential Oil for Aromatherapy Massage

The peppermint essential oil is derived from the leaves of the peppermint plant. This plant is a hybrid mint made by crossbreeding spearmint and watermint. The peppermint plants are usually grown in North America and Europe.

The peppermint essential oil has a sharp aromatic scent that’s both refreshing and cool. It tastes the same because it contains a lot of menthol and menthone. This essential oil can treat rashes, muscle pain, and headaches. Extracts of peppermint plants are edible and can be used to flavor foods and mouthwashes. Also, it’s used in making soaps and cosmetic products.

This essential oil possesses some aromatherapy properties. It can be diffused in the air during aromatherapy massage to relieve pains in body joints, relax tight muscles and alleviate moods. In this article, we will discuss the usage of peppermint oil for aromatherapy purposes and the risks involved.

Usage

Three or four drops of the peppermint essential oil in a diffuser will do if you intend to inhale it during an aromatherapy massage. Peppermint essential oil products are usually concentrated and can harm the body when applied directly to the skin. Therefore, it’s advised to dilute with a carrier oil before use. The ratio for dilution is a few drops of peppermint essential oil for 1 ounce of carrier oil. After dilution, the oil is safe for aromatherapy.

Risks

Peppermint essential oil can be dangerous when consumed orally. It could cause vomiting, nausea, and heartburn if swallowed, which is why people use its extracts for cooking purposes. The oil is concentrated and contains a toxic compound called Pulegone that could cause harm to the internal organs when consumed in large quantities.

Also, peppermint essential oil topical application during aromatherapy can lead to skin irritation and rashes. Meanwhile, it’s advised only to add a few drops in a diffuser because some people have allergic reactions to inhalation of too much peppermint.

Cautions

Bottles containing aromatherapy oil should always be covered and saved away from the reach of children. It’s advised to keep children away during peppermint aromatherapy. Women should also avoid aromatherapy massage during pregnancy. Some essential oils have been linked to fetus infections. Also, do not use this oil on pets.

It’s very important to consult a medical professional before you take peppermint aromatherapy, especially if you’re currently on a prescription. Peppermint oil may cause the drug to stay longer in the body. Medications impacted by peppermint oil include cyclosporine, lovastatin, simvastatin, and ketoconazole. People on drugs to reduce their stomach acids should also avoid peppermint aromatherapy.

Conclusion

Peppermint aromatherapy is good for the body. It helps to attain a relaxed state, reduces depression, and lowers blood pressure. Also, peppermint essential oil is generally considered safe but should not be consumed or used in large quantities. Make sure you dilute with a carrier oil and keep away from children. Don’t ever forget to discuss with your doctor or massage expert before taking a peppermint massage, and try different oil if you have had an allergy experience with this particular oil.