10 surprising benefits of peppermint essential oil

4. Stress Relief & EnergizerLavender essential oil isn’t the only option when looking for a natural way to reduce stress. Peppermint essential oil can actually improve energy, while reducing stress, and tension at the same time! This essential oil can also help to promote clarity, and boost concentration. Try adding a couple of drops to the palm of your hand and taking a few deep breaths in, for a mid-day pick me up that doesn’t involve caffeine! (2)

5. Improves the Health of Your Hair
Did you know that peppermint oil is one of the best kept secrets for healthy hair? According to Dr. Axe you should try adding 2-3 drops of peppermint essential oil to your shampoo or conditioner to help to stimulate the scalp, and reduce dandruff. (3)

6. Natural Bug Repellent
If you’re dealing with hot and humid summer conditions, and the mosquitos are driving you crazy, peppermint essential oil acts as a wonderful natural bug repellent. A handful of other bugs are also deterred by the scent of peppermint oil such as ants, spiders, and even cockroaches!

7. Fever Reducer
Looking for a natural way to help bring down a fever? Peppermint essential oil is known for its cooling effects, so what better way to use it than to cool the body when fighting off a fever? Try adding a couple of drops of peppermint essential oil to an organic lotion, or even some coconut oil and adding it to the bottom of your feet to help naturally bring down a fever.

8. Skin CareIf you suffer with dull, and dry skin adding some peppermint essential oil to your organic hand cream can do your skin some good! Peppermint can nourish the skin while also improving the texture of oily skin. (4) This is one of the reasons why this essential oil is helpful in preventing acne. Peppermint essential oil is also often found in chopsticks due to its ability to help to relieve dry lips. Peppermint essential oil can also help ease itchy skin. The cooling effect of this oil will help to put an end to the itch almost immediately. Peppermint essential oil also acts as an anti-inflammatory agent, and can improve the symptoms of numerous skin conditions that can lead to itching including poison ivy, and poison oak. (5)

9. Dental CareWhile most toothpastes as peppermint flavored, the majority of them are not actually made from peppermint essential oil. Pure peppermint essential oil carries antiseptic agents to help prevent bacterial growth in the mouth, and can also prevent bad breath. Dr. Mercola suggests adding 1-2 drops to your toothpaste.

10. Helping Those with Gastric Emptying Conditions
For those who suffer with gastric emptying conditions, peppermint oil may be an excellent natural remedy. Studies have shown that peppermint essential oil can enhance gastric emptying in those with functional gastric emptying disease. (6)