This morning I rose with the sun, which is really sleeping in for me, and it feels delightful to actually start my morning in the light of day. I pull my two feet from my cozy bed, start the kettle and head out to the garden with a steaming cup of white peony tea.  

As I stand in the cold December light, my breath making steamy clouds in front of me, I notice the leaves of my potted Peppermint are still wet from last night's rain. I am struck by the plant's resilience. Here I stand, the winter air nipping at my skin, while sweet and sassy Peppermint stands strong through the dark, wet days of December. I am reminded that although deceptively delicate, with those exquisitely brightly green leaves, the Peppermint plant endures as important aid that can guide you though long Winter days.   

Peppermint has long been used as a herbal supplement, and historically included in both traditional medicine and home remedies. For centuries, the most common use of Peppermint was as a digestive aid. Although the essential oil, derived from the plant's leaves and flowers, is also popularly used in butters and balms to help relieve muscle pain, congestion and headache. 

If you're having a hard time associating Peppermint with anything other than Trident gum, or that syrup Starbucks adds to your holiday latte, have you ever used Vick's Vapor Rub? How about Burt's Bees products? Mint TUMS? Now you might recall the instant cooling and uplifting relief that Peppermint brings to an upset stomach, or during the worst days of a cold.

I myself find relief from headaches by applying just one drop of Peppermint essential oil to my thumb and index finger, and gently rubbing it into my temples. More than once Peppermint has come to my aid. I recall a particularly tedious drive to Los Angeles, where Peppermint Essential Oil was a saving grace. During the 10 hour drive up and down the state, I left the small bottle of Peppermint open in my cup holder. Every now and then I would lift it to my nose and take a deep breath, which helped keep my mind calm and alert during the long commute.

If you watch someone's face when they use Peppermint, you can see the immediate soothing effect. The plant offers both grounding and uplifting benefits, and also helps to clear mental fatigue and improve focus. For daily benefits, try adding a sprig of freshly crushed Peppermint leaves to hot water or tea. You can also try combining this with a squeeze of your favorite citrus, or crushing leaves into a tea strainer and pouring hot cocoa over them. A Peppermint drink will no doubt delight your tongue and refresh your spirit.  Yum! I'm having visions of snugly evenings by the fire. 

It can be so easy and healing to practice of Aromatic Vitality in daily life! Now, I must start the day. I head back inside, but I leave curious souls with a few more details about Peppermint. Take comfort in Peppermint, and the promise that we are coming to the end of these long dark days. Joy! Tomorrow is the Winter Solstice! 

Additional Information

Origin: Mints have been cultivated since ancient times in China and Japan. In Egypt, evidence of Peppermint has been found in tombs dating from 1000 BC. It has been used extensively in Eastern and Western medicine for a variety of complaints.

Method of Extraction: Steam distillation of leaves and flowers

Therapeutic Properties: Analgesic, antiseptic, antispasmotic, anti- inflammatory, antimicrobial, antiviral, expectorant, nervine, vasoconstrictor and decongestant.

Most Common Uses: This amazing oil is listed in the British Herbal Pharmicopia for intestinal colic, flatulence, common cold. Widely used for aid in nausea, diarrhea, headaches, toothaches and cramp. Peppermint helps people become clear headed and it refreshes the spirit. Helpful for those who are unable to concentrate or have mental fatigue. Beneficial in the treatment of colds and flu due to the antiseptic and expectorant properties the oil. Peppermint is ideal for sinus congestion, infection or inflammation and for congestive headache.

Blends Well With: Can be used as a single use oil. Blends very nicely with Lavender, Mandarin, Lemon, Ravensara, Frankincense, Cedarwood, Eucalyptus and Benzoin.

Safety Data: Non-toxic, non-irritant (except in high concentration) possibly sensitizing due to menthol. Use in moderation.

**A few words of wisdom, always use respect and caution whenever using essential oils. Seek professional guidance. If you have animals make sure they have a way to leave the room you are using essential oils in. Many of the essential oils humans enjoy are toxic to animals, especially cats.  Animal’s body systems are different than humans and many essential oils are highly toxic to them. This Aromatherapy blog and information is based upon the common uses of aromatherapy.  This blog and information does not intended to be used for diagnosis or to treat any condition.  Please do not use this information as a substitute for medical advice/counseling from a health care professional.  No part of this blog article may be reproduced in whole or part without the explicit written permission of Aromatic Vitality and or Maggie Yule.**