Growing up on an herb farm in central Oregon, the sweet smell of peppermint was almost always in the air.

Peppermint grows abundantly here and seems to tolerate well the bipolar-like characteristics of our local weather.

It has many uses and can be put to work in the kitchen or in your natural remedies cabinet.

Tummy tonic

The first peppermint remedy I remember using was a stomach-soother. I was feeling nauseated and used peppermint tea to calm the queasiness.

Combined with chamomile, peppermint is a gentle soother for stomach ailments like indigestion and heartburn. It also helps relieve diarrhea.

Threat defense

Peppermint combined with elder flower and yarrow makes an excellent cold defense and helps support the immune system.

Sinus relief

Peppermint tea can also help clear the sinuses, as well a peppermint compress applied over the sinus area. Taken internally, peppermint essential oil can also treat sinus infections.

Just make sure it’s a therapeutic-grade oil, like doTERRA.

Muscle relief

Taken as a tea, peppermint relieves muscle cramps, and does so externally when a poultice is applied to the area.

Head Tension Blaster

Peppermint essential oil is also used regularly in our home. Diluted in a carrier oil, peppermint oil can be applied in small amount to the head, shoulder, behind the ears and the bottoms of the feet to combat the occasional head tension.

And don’t forget to add some peppermint essential oil to your next batch of lip balm.

And much more…

Applied in a carrier oil to the chest, it helps promote clear breathing. Peppermint essential oil also protects against environmental threats.

I love to diffuse peppermint oil throughout the house to battle the scent that our potty-training toddler leaves in his wake.

How to use

Brew some delicious peppermint tea by itself or mix it with some other herbs like lemon balm or red raspberry leaf. Chop some mint up and add it to a salad for a delicious something special. Or you know, there’s always mojitos. 🙂

Peppermint essential oil is very handy to have on hand. I keep some in a ridiculously cute little vial in my wallet. It goes with me everywhere.

Cautions

Consult with your herbal professional prior to using peppermint medicinally if you have gall stones. Some infants cannot tolerate peppermint’s strength, so it’s best to use it after your child has reached one year of age. If nursing, avoid peppermint, because large quantities will lower your milk supply.

Check my resources page for recommendations for herbs, essential oils and other supplies for natural remedies. Enjoy!