Peppermint

Aromatherapy is a relatively inexpensive complementary alternative medicine and it is a terrific addition to massage therapy sessions.  Unless my clients suffer from allergies or request unscented lubrication, I consistently add essential oils into my massage oil mixtures and strategically place drops of essential oils around the massage table for a double dose of aromatherapy.  I use many different essential oils but I would have to say that my favorite is peppermint oil due to its many health benefits.

Peppermint, sometimes termed the world's oldest medicine, has been found in Egyptian tombs dating as far back as 1000 BC, and while peppermint has had many applications over the years,  it is probably best known for its medicinal uses.  Unlike many other essential oils, studies conducted by the scientific community have proved there are numerous health benefits attached to peppermint oil.  Indigestion, respiratory problems, headaches, sinus congestion, muscle aches and pain, asthma, and toothaches are only some of the symptoms that can be treated with peppermint oil.  The minty aroma of peppermint is both refreshing and stimulating and has shown effectiveness in treating nervous tension and anxiety.

Below you will find a few home remedies that I have tried.  Please feel free to send me your recipes for essential oils and I hope you enjoy mine.

Indigestion:  Put a few drops of peppermint oil in a glass of water and drink it after a meal to help with digestion.  ***For those that suffer from heartburn, please consult your physician before you try this because peppermint is carminative.  Carminatives combat flatulence and have been shown to decrease lower esophageal pressure, which on the other hand increases the risk of Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD) or 'heartburn'.

Colic:   Put a piece of peppermint candy in a bottle of water to help with cramps associated with gas pain.

Headaches:  Apply peppermint oil in a diluted form directly on the forehead and temples.  For those that do not have sensitive skin, you might be able to apply the oil undiluted.  Lavender oil is another essential oil that I use to treat headaches.  Place a few drops on your fingertips and massage it into the base of the skull.

Sinus Congestion:  1)Put a few drops of peppermint  in Vick's Vaporub and massage the mixture into the soles of the feet.  Cover the feet with white cotton socks and go to sleep.  2)Put a few drops of peppermint on a warm, steamy washcloth and then cover your face with the cloth.  Inhale deeply for temporary relief of sinus congestion.  3)Place a few drops of peppermint on a tissue and put the tissue in your pillowcase.  This is not only treating sinus problems, it is also a great sleep aid.  4)Combine peppermint and eucalyptus oils and place a few drops on a tissue.  Place the tissue over your nose and mouth and inhale for temporary relief.