Peppermint essential oil is one that I often overlook when using oils in therapy for some reason. But I used it without fail every time I travel as I find that inhaling it from a tissue was incredibly helpful to prevent any nausea or anxiety when travelling. I now find that I have used it for so many years (literally decades) for this purpose that I can just close my eyes on take-off when flying and I can smell it!
For skin a tiny amount is all you need as an anti-itch (blended in an oil/cream and peppermint is extremely helpful also in aftersun to soothe skin.
I use peppermint leaf tea as a digestive aid and is my favourite herbal tea. A small amount of Peppermint essential oil 1/2 drops only can be carefully blended with a vegetable oil and massage the stomach/abdomen in a clockwise direction for indigestion and digestive issues.
In our own products, I use peppermint essential oil as an active ingredient in our highly effective Midges & Mozzie Balm. Prevents and also soothes after any bites.
Our top 10 uses of peppermint oil
1. soothing on the digestive system
2. for nausea & travel sickness 3. for mental fatigue 4. with a cold compress for headaches 5. relief from neuralgia & muscle aches 6. for colds & flu 7. sinus issues 8. relief of skin itching/irritation 9. aids clear thinking & concentration
Peppermint Essential oil is steam distilled and is perennial herb native to Europe and was brought to USA later. USA is now a large producer of peppermint essential oil. It is pale yellow or olive coloured. It has a strong minty fragrance. Peppermint has been used since ancient times as a flavour. It is best to use peppermint during the day rather than evening/before bed, as it can be a stimulant.
When using essential oils where you have specific medical problems always contact a qualified aromatherapist or consult with your GP
Essential oils for tummy issues. I have had a couple of clients with some minor tummy issues recently and I would like to look at these here. Along with the possible essential oils and blends that can be helpful to alleviate the problem.
With the changes in the weather from freezing cold to roasting hot – some of us have been caught out with the sun. So I thought it would be helpful to suggest some aromatherapy essential oil blends to soothe skin that has been in the sun or to replenish moisture after sun exposure.
It is, of course, preferable to always use sun cream with a good spf before going into the sun and limit your time in the sun. These blends can be used as replenishment for skin, this is ideal. Sometimes however we need to soothe the skin as well. So here are some suggestions for you:-
One suggested blend would be 10ml calendula macerate, 5ml jojoba, 5ml sesame, 10ml aloe vera gel with 8 drops lavender, 2 drops roman chamomile, 2 dropstea tree, 1 drop german chamomile, 1 drop peppermint.
Another possible blend would be 10ml calendula macerate and 20ml aloe vera gel. 9 drops lavender, 3 drops carrot seed, 3 drops frankincense, 2 drops roman chamomile, 1 drop peppermint.
Lavender and Lavender essential oil
To mix the blends use a spoon or a stirring stick to stir to blend the oils and gel completely before use on the skin. You can of course experiment with the suggested oils, but keep to the quantities suggested for safe usage.
I hope these aromatherapy oil blends to soothe skin after sun exposure are helpful to re – mositurise, calm and protect skin.
If your skin is red and tight, then it may be preferable to use a couple of drops of pure lavender on the area first, as that is an emergency treatment for minor burns, then use one of the blends thereafter. You may need someone to help you if the sunburn is on your back.
For severely damaged or burnt skin always seek medical advice. For complex medical conditions always contact a qualified aromatherapist or your medical professional.
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