Peppermint (Mentha × piperita)

Profile
Latin name: Mentha × piperita (peppermint). Family: Lamiaceae. Steam-distilled from the aerial parts. It is a hybrid of water mint (Mentha aquatica) and spearmint (Mentha spicata). Its main component is menthol.

Aroma
Intense, cooling, minty.

Traditional uses
Traditionally used for mental alertness and focus, to feel refreshed when travelling, when feeling tired, and in diluted abdominal massage for digestive comfort in adults.

How to use
As a general guide, about 2% is used for adult body applications (4 drops in 10 ml carrier oil) and 1% for the face (2 drops in 10 ml). A few drops are enough in a diffuser.

Safety
It can irritate mucous membranes; keep away from the eyes and mucous membranes and do not add undiluted to the bath. Use a low dilution on sensitive skin.

Children
Menthol-rich oils are not applied to or near the face of babies and young children and are not diffused near them; they can slow breathing in some children. Essential oils are not used routinely at home for babies (0–6 months); between 6 months and 2 years they are only considered under the guidance of a professional trained in paediatric aromatherapy. Adult dilutions are not used for older children either; see “Aromatherapy and Its Safe Use in Children” for details.

Essential oils are not taken internally, not applied undiluted to the skin, and are kept away from the eyes and out of reach of children. Do not use during pregnancy or breastfeeding without consulting a professional. This information describes traditional uses and does not replace medical treatment.