Peppermint Oil Vibes: Why You Need to Use it For Everyday Ailments

When I shared the items in my medicine cabinet earlier this summer, you saw that I love essential oils. {A diffuser is actually at the top of my wishlist right now!} One of my favorite oils is peppermint, because you can use it for SO many things. Not only does it smell amazing, but it also gives off a cooling sensation on your skin and can be really energizing.

Peppermint oil isn’t a new trend. Its uses have been documented back to 1,000 BC and have been found in several Egyptian pyramids. Other sources date peppermint oil to ancient Chinese and Japanese folk medicine. How cool is that!? 

Today, I’m sharing some of my favorite ways to use peppermint oil, as well as one way that I can’t wait to try! 

1. Improves sinus congestion

Peppermint oil, as well as rosemary, tea tree and eucalyptus oils, can help relieve symptoms of sinus congestion. Peppermint plants contain menthol, a compound typically found in over-the-counter vapor rubs. Menthol provides a cooling sensation, which can alleviate discomfort from respiratory problems and bring a feeling of air flowing through your nose. 

How to use: Instead of buying over-the-counter vapor rubs, get sinus relief straight from the source. Give yourself a peppermint oil steam facial! Boil water in a pot and pour it into a large bowl. Add a few drops of peppermint oil. Hold your face over the water and drape a towel over your head to create a tent. Breathe in the steam for 10 minutes. 

2. Relieves Headaches 

Ugh, nothing ruins my day more than a headache. When I get one, it seems to linger for days. Over the past year or so, I’ve reduced my use of medications like Advil or Tylenol to ease headaches, and have made the switch to peppermint oil. The oil improves circulation and can relax tense muscles, which are two conditions that can cause tension headaches. However, I’ll be honest. I always try peppermint oil first, but if my headache is REALLY bad and not going away, I’ll take two Advil. It really just depends on the severity of the pain. 

How to use: Soak a cotton ball with 3 or 4 drops of peppermint oil. Rub it across your forehead, next to your hairline, or rub it on the back of your neck. 

3. Soothes Scalp

I don’t get dandruff often, but in the winter I’ll get it if the weather is super cold and dry. Normal dandruff shampoos are packed with nasty chemicals and actually wind up burning my scalp, so last winter I tried a bit of peppermint oil and it changed my life. It works because the oil has antiseptic properties that clears our dead skin and bacteria. Peppermint oil also can restore your scalp to its natural pH levels. Balancing the pH helps reduce the dryness and flakiness, which are two causes of dandruff. 

How to use: Add 3-4 drops of peppermint oil to your regular shampoo. You’ll love the cooling effect! I use it if I’m showering in the morning, because the smell is really energizing. 

4. Repels Nasty Bugs

Mosquitoes, ticks, ants and other bugs absolutely hate the smell of peppermint oil, which makes it a great insect repellent. There was a study done in Israel that compared seven different commercial bug repellants. Surprisingly, an all-natural essential oil repellent (a blend of cinnamon, eugenol, geranium, peppermint, and lemongrass oils) was tied as the most-effective with the brand OFF! 

How to use: Fill a spray bottle half with water and half with witch hazel. Then, add 20 drops of peppermint oil and 10 drops of your favorite oils to get a scent that you enjoy. My favorites include lemongrass, tea tree, eucalyptus and lavender.

5. Plumps Lips?!

Okay, so this one I’m a bit skeptical about. And since I’ve never tried it, I can’t vouch for it. Basically, peppermint oil stimulates circulation under the lips and in turn causes them to swell a bit. Sounds legit. It’s even rumored that Mariah Carey uses peppermint oil to plump her lips. I’m definitely going to try it out. I’ll keep you posted. 

How to use: Add a few drops of peppermint oil to your favorite lip balm or gloss, and apply to your lips. 

// How do you use peppermint oil? Comment below!