Submitted by Jeanette Barcus,
Certified Natural Health Consultant
Summer is in full swing and that means we could be getting more bites, stings, scrapes, sore muscles, nausea, tummy aches, burns, and headaches. This is the time of year we also see more ants and spiders trying to invade our space. Peppermint oil to the rescue!
The oil from peppermint leaves makes one of the most popular essential oils. This oil has been used over the years for its refreshing, uplifting, invigorating and therapeutic properties. One to two drops may be used in a diffuser to help uplift those who feel apathetic and mentally and physically exhausted.
The fresh scent can help promote freer breathing. The pain relieving properties come into play when there are headaches, arthritis, muscular pain, toothache, migraines, tired feet, sunburn, cramps, insect bites, and stings. For most applications it is always better to mix an essential oil with a carrier oil like almond oil, coconut or others before rubbing it on the skin. It will absorb better, go farther and be less likely to dry or irritate the skin. For burns, I’d mix it with aloe vera gel or Silver Shield gel. However, for spot applications, like a chigger bite, dabbing an undiluated drop of oil directly on the bite can be very safe and effective.
When there are digestive issues, like flatulence (trapped gas), constipation and tummy aches, try putting 2-3 drops of peppermint oil in about 1 teaspoon of carrier oil and rubbing it on the abdomen and/or back to feel better.
When one feels shock, faintness, or dizziness, just breathing a tissue that has had 2-3 drops of peppermint oil on it can help.
When threatened with nausea or if there is a cough that won’t quit, a drop of peppermint oil on the back of the tongue may provide relief.
It is reported that spiders, mice, and ants do not like peppermint oil. Just a few drops on a cotton ball placed around the house or sprayed where they are seen may just be the deterrent wanted.
A peppermint infused summer may just be a happier summer!
