Peppermint essential oil

Main effects
1. Refreshing and improving the state
Fighting fatigue: Menthol can stimulate the nervous system, quickly relieve drowsiness and lack of energy (such as working in the afternoon or driving long distances), and improve concentration and reaction.
Relieve headaches: It has an auxiliary relief effect on tension headaches and migraines (by stimulating the cold receptors on the skin and interfering with the transmission of pain signals), especially suitable for headaches caused by stress or lack of sleep.
2. Respiratory and digestive aids
Nose clearing and cough relief: Its cooling properties can soothe the respiratory mucosa, relieve nasal congestion and runny nose caused by colds and rhinitis, and relieve itchy throat and cough (can be achieved by inhalation or steam fumigation).
Aiding digestion: The smell can stimulate the secretion of digestive enzymes, relieve abdominal distension, bloating, and indigestion; combined with abdominal massage, it can also improve mild constipation.
3. Skin and body care
Oil control and cleansing: Menthol has antibacterial properties, can inhibit Propionibacterium acnes, reduce oil accumulation, suitable for oily and acne-prone skin, and can be added to cleansing products to enhance cleaning power (need to be diluted).
Cooling and soothing: Applying it to the skin surface will produce an immediate cooling sensation, which can relieve skin burning after sun exposure, muscle heat after exercise, or itching after mosquito bites (quickly relieve discomfort).
Relieve muscle soreness: Massage the shoulders, neck, legs and other parts with base oil to promote local blood circulation and relieve muscle soreness and stiffness after exercise (such as back pain after sitting for a long time).
4. Daily practical scenarios
Insect repellent: Its smell has a natural repellent effect on mosquitoes (mosquitoes, fleas, etc.). You can drop 2-3 drops in the aromatherapy machine, or mix with base oil and apply it to the ankles and cuffs to replace chemical insect repellents.
Fresh air: In spaces that are prone to odors such as kitchens and bathrooms, use an aromatherapy machine to diffuse peppermint essential oil, which can quickly neutralize odors and bring a refreshing breath.
How to use
Aromatherapy machine: Drop 3-4 drops of essential oil and add clean water. It is suitable for offices, study rooms or bedrooms. Note that the concentration should not be too high to avoid irritating the respiratory tract.
Emergency inhalation: drop 1-2 drops of essential oil on a tissue, smell it when you have a stuffy nose or feel sleepy, and it will work quickly.
Facial care: For oily/acne-prone skin, add 1 drop of peppermint essential oil to 5ml of refreshing toner or lotion, mix and apply (avoid the eye area to avoid irritation), 2-3 times a week.
Local relief: after insect bites, mix 1 drop of essential oil with 1 drop of base oil (such as aloe vera gel, jojoba oil), and apply to the affected area; after sun exposure, add it to refrigerated aloe vera gel to enhance the cooling and soothing effect.
Body massage: when relieving muscle soreness, 10ml of base oil (such as grapeseed oil, olive oil) with 3-4 drops of peppermint essential oil, massage the sore area, and the effect is better with cold compress.
Insect repellent spray: 100ml water + 5 drops of peppermint essential oil + 3 drops of lemon essential oil, put into a spray bottle, spray around clothes and bedding (avoid dark fabrics to prevent staining).
Cleaning aid: Add 2-3 drops of essential oil to the water when mopping the floor, which can make the floor smell fresh and inhibit some bacteria.
Notes
Peppermint essential oil is highly irritating, and it is forbidden to apply undiluted essential oil directly, especially to sensitive skin, children's skin, and mucous membranes (around the eyes, mouth, nose, and genitals), otherwise it may cause redness, swelling, and burning.
The recommended concentration for facial use is no more than 0.5% (i.e. 10ml basic skin care products plus 1 drop of essential oil), and no more than 2% for body use.
Taboos for special groups
Infants and young children (under 6 years old): Menthol may inhibit the respiratory center and is absolutely prohibited; children aged 6-12 years old need to use it at extremely low concentrations under adult supervision (such as 10ml base oil plus 1 drop).
Pregnant and lactating women: Avoid use, as it may irritate the uterus or affect the baby through breast milk.
People with photosensitivity: Although peppermint essential oil is less photosensitizing, it is still recommended to avoid exposure to the sun after using it in high concentrations (especially when used with citrus essential oils).
Patients with low blood pressure: Peppermint has a slight blood pressure-lowering effect. People with low blood pressure should use it with caution to avoid aggravating dizziness.
Storage method
After sealing, place in a cool, dark place, away from children and pets; the shelf life is usually 2-3 years. It is recommended to use it within 1 year after opening to avoid oxidation and ineffectiveness of the ingredients.