A Refresher on Peppermint: An Alternative Medicine for Sinuses and Relaxation

Peppermint is widely known as a natural remedy for upset stomachs. However, I have been using peppermint oil for a common problem that many of us, especially when we're hit with weather that is less than exceptional - sinus problems.

This fantastic herb, which is a hybrid of watermint and spearmint according to Wikipedia, has a very potent and refreshing smell that opens the sinuses completely allowing mucus to drain properly. I have been using peppermint oil for over a year now.

Throughout my experience with it, I have learned something very important about peppermint. It is extremely strong and should be used with caution when using for inhalations and for skin applications.

One day, I was in need of a peppermint steam very badly due to my sinuses acting up. The weather was a mixed bag of tricks that particular week - one day it's cold, the next day it's hot sort of thing. Anyway, I prepared a small saucepan of boiling water, which I placed on top of a pot holder on my dining room table, grabbed a bath towel to place over my head to take in the steam, and a bottle of 100% peppermint oil.

I only use one drop of peppermint oil at a time. I learned the hard way that any more than one drop at any given time isn't a good idea. To reiterate, peppermint oil is very strong and should be used with caution for that reason alone. When I tried to use more than one drop at a time while steaming, it burned my skin slightly and I had to stop the process altogether.

The steam inhalation with one drop of peppermint oil is effective for about 10-15 minutes. Promptly after steaming, I blow my nose because the combination of peppermint and steam loosens the mucus in my sinuses allowing for easier cleansing. If after the first time I steam and I feel it's necessary to do it again, I wait for about 15-20 minutes before I do it a second time. Even with the second steam, I use only one drop of peppermint oil keeping the same precautions in mind. Personally, I never do more than two steams in one day. For me, two steams are enough for me to clear my head and my sinuses.

Another great way I use peppermint oil is in my bath water to help relax my aching muscles and feet. I add 3-5 drops of peppermint oil right before I get into the water. The aroma is very refreshing and relaxing as well as the feel of it on the skin. My muscles relax very easily and completely. I enjoy it so much.

In addition, peppermint oil can be used to relax the body by adding it to a generous amount of lotion. The best lotion to use is the unscented variety. Adding one drop of peppermint oil to a very generous amount in the palm of my hand and mixed together creates an extraordinarily relaxing and invigorating lotion. The entire body relaxes and tingles for hours after application.

As with all essential oils and herbs, please use your intuition when deciding to use these methods. The information here is based on my personal experience. This information is not intended to replace any treatment you are receiving from a medical professional. This is merely a suggestion for an alternative or an addition to treatment already being used. Once again, you should use your own intuition when deciding on these methods.