History
Mint was prized in Japan and China
for centuries and has even been found in Egyptian
tombs dating back to 1,000 BC. The Egyptians used
this herb to flavor food and wine. In the 17th century
Culpeper recorded that Peppermint was the herb most
useful for 'complaints of the stomach, such as wind
and vomiting, for which there are few remedies or
greater efficiency'.
The leaves of Peppermint are broader and shorter
with larger spikes of flower, which are purple.
Peppermint is a classic British herb, now grown
throughout the world. The essential oil is nearly
one-third menthol, which is one of the reasons it
is used to invigorate and clear the head. The oil
is distilled from the whole of the partially dried
plant.
Uses
It is commonly used for treating
Blood Pressure - Low, Catarrh, Colds, Fevers, Headache,
Indigestion, Lethargy and Migraine. Peppermint oil
is the most extensively used of all the volatile
oils, both medicinally and commercially. The characteristic
anti-spasmodic action of the volatile oil is more
marked in this than in any other oil, and greatly
adds to its power of relieving pains arising in
the alimentary canal.
From its stimulating, stomachic and carminative
properties, it is valuable in certain forms of dyspepsia,
being mostly used for flatulence and colic. It may
also be employed for other sudden pains and for
cramp in the abdomen; wide use is made of Peppermint
in cholera and diarrhea.
It is generally combined with other medicines when
its stomachic effects are required, being also employed
with purgatives to prevent griping. Oil of Peppermint
allays sickness and nausea, and is much used to
disguise the taste of unpalatable drugs, as it imparts
its aromatic characteristics to whatever prescription
it enters into. It is used as an infants' cordial.
Blends With
Although most essential oils blend well with one another,
Peppermint oil blends particularly well with: Basil,
Bergamot, Camphor, Cedarwood, Clary Sage, Eucalyptus,
Geranium, Juniper, Lavender, Lemon, Myrrh, Patchouli,
Rose, Rosemary, Sandalwood, Sweet Fennel. |
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