Essential oil for colitis. Essential Oils for Ulcerative Colitis: Natural Symptom Relief Strategies
How can aromatherapy help manage ulcerative colitis symptoms. Which essential oils show promise for reducing inflammation and pain in UC. Are there risks to using essential oils for colitis treatment. How should essential oils be safely used for digestive issues.
Understanding Ulcerative Colitis and the Potential of Aromatherapy
Ulcerative colitis (UC) is a chronic inflammatory bowel disease that can cause significant discomfort and disruption to daily life. While conventional medications like anti-inflammatories and corticosteroids form the cornerstone of treatment, many patients seek complementary approaches to manage their symptoms. Aromatherapy, which utilizes plant-derived essential oils, has emerged as a potential adjunct therapy for UC.
Research suggests that certain essential oils may possess anti-inflammatory, analgesic, and mood-enhancing properties that could benefit those with UC. Dr. Hallie Armstrong, a naturopathic physician at Beaumont Health, notes that these qualities may help address common UC symptoms like pain and fatigue. However, it’s crucial to understand that most studies on essential oils have been conducted in animals, and more robust human trials are needed to conclusively prove their efficacy.
Key Essential Oils for Ulcerative Colitis Symptom Management
Several essential oils have shown promise in alleviating UC symptoms:
Patchouli Oil
Patchouli oil, long used in Eastern medicine, has demonstrated anti-inflammatory effects in animal studies. A 2017 study published in Pharmacological Research found that patchouli alcohol, derived from patchouli oil, suppressed inflammation and improved symptoms in mice with induced colitis. While these results are encouraging, human studies are needed to confirm its efficacy in UC patients.
Peppermint Oil
Peppermint oil is renowned for its digestive benefits, particularly its antispasmodic properties. It may help alleviate common UC symptoms such as gas and bloating. A 2019 review in BMC Complementary Medicine and Therapies concluded that peppermint oil is a safe and effective option for managing gastrointestinal pain. When using peppermint oil orally, it’s important to choose enteric-coated capsules for optimal absorption.
Turmeric Oil
Turmeric, a spice commonly used in Indian cuisine, contains the active compound curcumin, which has potent anti-inflammatory properties. Research published in the Indian Journal of Pharmacology has shown that turmeric oil offers significant anti-inflammatory benefits. Additionally, several small human studies have found that curcumin supplements may help ease symptoms of mild to moderate UC. A meta-analysis published in Annals of Gastroenterology in 2019 suggested that combining curcumin with the UC medication mesalamine may produce better clinical outcomes.
Lavender Oil
While not directly targeting UC symptoms, lavender oil may indirectly benefit patients by promoting better sleep. A 2015 study in the Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine found that inhaled lavender, combined with good sleep hygiene practices, was more effective at improving sleep quality than sleep hygiene alone. Given the importance of rest in managing chronic conditions like UC, lavender aromatherapy could be a valuable addition to a holistic treatment approach.
Safe Usage of Essential Oils for Ulcerative Colitis
When incorporating essential oils into your UC management plan, it’s crucial to use them safely and appropriately. Here are some guidelines to follow:
- Avoid ingesting most essential oils unless specifically formulated and recommended for internal use.
- Dilute essential oils with a carrier oil like jojoba before applying to the skin.
- Consider using an aromatherapy diffuser for inhalation of essential oil vapors.
- Always consult with your healthcare provider before adding essential oils to your treatment regimen.
- Be aware of potential interactions between essential oils and medications.
Can essential oils be applied directly to the abdomen for UC relief? It’s generally recommended to dilute essential oils with a carrier oil before applying them topically. This can help prevent skin irritation and enhance absorption. Gently massaging diluted essential oils onto the abdomen may provide localized relief for some UC symptoms.
The Science Behind Essential Oils and Inflammation
Understanding how essential oils may impact inflammation is crucial in exploring their potential benefits for UC. Many essential oils contain compounds with anti-inflammatory properties, which could help mitigate the chronic inflammation characteristic of UC.
Do essential oils directly reduce intestinal inflammation in UC? While some animal studies have shown promising results, the exact mechanisms by which essential oils may reduce intestinal inflammation in humans with UC are not fully understood. Some theories suggest that certain compounds in essential oils may modulate inflammatory pathways or influence the gut microbiome, but more research is needed to confirm these hypotheses.
Terpenes and Their Role in Inflammation
Many essential oils are rich in terpenes, organic compounds that give plants their distinctive aromas. Some terpenes, such as limonene found in citrus oils and beta-caryophyllene present in black pepper and copaiba oils, have demonstrated anti-inflammatory effects in preclinical studies. These compounds may interact with the body’s endocannabinoid system, which plays a role in regulating inflammation and pain perception.
Complementary Approaches: Combining Essential Oils with Conventional UC Treatments
While essential oils should not replace prescribed medications for UC, they may serve as a complementary approach to enhance overall symptom management. Integrating aromatherapy into a comprehensive treatment plan could potentially improve quality of life for UC patients.
How can essential oils be incorporated into a holistic UC management strategy? Consider the following approaches:
- Use aromatherapy diffusers in your living space to create a calming environment.
- Apply diluted essential oils during self-massage to promote relaxation and potentially ease abdominal discomfort.
- Incorporate essential oil-infused baths as part of a stress-reduction routine.
- Explore aromatherapy in conjunction with other complementary practices like meditation or yoga.
Is it safe to use essential oils alongside conventional UC medications? While many essential oils are generally considered safe when used appropriately, it’s crucial to discuss their use with your healthcare provider. Some essential oils may interact with medications or affect their absorption. Your doctor can help you determine if aromatherapy is a suitable addition to your treatment plan and advise on any potential risks or contraindications.
Potential Risks and Considerations When Using Essential Oils for UC
While essential oils offer potential benefits, it’s important to be aware of possible risks and take necessary precautions:
- Skin irritation or allergic reactions can occur, especially with undiluted oils.
- Some essential oils may cause photosensitivity, increasing the risk of sunburn.
- Certain oils may be contraindicated for people with specific health conditions or during pregnancy.
- Overuse or improper use of essential oils can lead to adverse effects.
Are there any essential oils that UC patients should avoid? Some essential oils, particularly those with strong stimulant properties or those known to irritate the digestive system, may not be suitable for UC patients. These may include cinnamon, oregano, and thyme oils. Always research and consult with a qualified aromatherapist or healthcare provider before using new essential oils, especially if you have a chronic condition like UC.
Beyond Aromatherapy: Other Natural Approaches to UC Management
While exploring the potential of essential oils for UC symptom relief, it’s worth considering other natural approaches that may complement conventional treatment:
Dietary Modifications
Many UC patients find that certain dietary changes can help manage their symptoms. This may include:
- Identifying and avoiding trigger foods
- Increasing intake of anti-inflammatory foods like omega-3 rich fish, fruits, and vegetables
- Considering probiotic-rich foods to support gut health
Stress Management Techniques
Stress is known to exacerbate UC symptoms. Incorporating stress-reduction practices can be beneficial:
- Mindfulness meditation
- Regular exercise, such as yoga or tai chi
- Cognitive-behavioral therapy
Herbal Supplements
Some herbs have shown promise in managing UC symptoms:
- Boswellia (Indian frankincense)
- Aloe vera
- Chamomile
Can herbal supplements be used alongside essential oils for UC management? While combining various natural approaches may seem appealing, it’s crucial to approach this carefully. Some herbs and essential oils may interact with each other or with medications. Always consult with a healthcare provider before combining different complementary therapies to ensure safety and effectiveness.
The Future of Aromatherapy in UC Treatment: Research and Developments
As interest in complementary therapies grows, researchers are increasingly focusing on the potential of essential oils in managing chronic conditions like UC. While current evidence is primarily based on animal studies and anecdotal reports, there is a push for more rigorous human clinical trials to evaluate the efficacy and safety of aromatherapy for UC.
What areas of research are scientists exploring regarding essential oils and UC? Some key areas of investigation include:
- The impact of specific essential oil compounds on intestinal inflammation
- Potential synergistic effects between essential oils and conventional UC medications
- Optimal delivery methods for essential oils in treating gastrointestinal conditions
- Long-term safety and efficacy of aromatherapy as an adjunct therapy for UC
As research progresses, we may gain a clearer understanding of how essential oils can be effectively and safely integrated into comprehensive UC management strategies. This could potentially lead to the development of standardized aromatherapy protocols for UC patients, providing a more holistic approach to treatment.
Empowering UC Patients: Making Informed Decisions About Aromatherapy
While the potential benefits of essential oils for UC are intriguing, it’s crucial for patients to approach aromatherapy with a well-informed and cautious mindset. Here are some key points to consider when exploring essential oils as a complementary therapy:
- Quality matters: Choose high-quality, pure essential oils from reputable sources.
- Education is key: Learn about proper dilution, application methods, and safety precautions.
- Individual responses vary: What works for one person may not work for another.
- Patience is important: Natural approaches often require time to show effects.
- Keep your healthcare team informed: Always discuss new therapies with your doctors.
How can UC patients determine if aromatherapy is right for them? Consider the following steps:
- Consult with your gastroenterologist about incorporating aromatherapy into your treatment plan.
- Seek guidance from a certified aromatherapist experienced in working with chronic health conditions.
- Start with a single, well-tolerated essential oil and monitor your response carefully.
- Keep a journal to track your symptoms and any changes you notice with aromatherapy use.
- Be prepared to discontinue use if you experience any adverse effects or worsening of symptoms.
By taking a thoughtful, informed approach to aromatherapy, UC patients can explore this complementary therapy while prioritizing their overall health and well-being. As research in this field continues to evolve, patients and healthcare providers alike will gain a better understanding of how essential oils can be safely and effectively integrated into comprehensive UC management strategies.
Can Aromatherapy Ease Ulcerative Colitis Symptoms?| Everyday Health
Essential oils are known to have medicinal properties — and a few may be useful to deal with symptoms of UC.
By Denise SchipaniMedically Reviewed by Kareem Sassi, MD
Reviewed:
Medically Reviewed
Safe use of some essential oils may help soothe colitis symptoms.Martí Sans/Stocksy
If you have ulcerative colitis (UC), you may already be taking medication, such as an anti-inflammatory or corticosteroid, to address symptoms and to help stave off flare-ups. And while conventional medical treatment can be effective, many longtime UC sufferers are continually casting about for alternative treatments to go along with what their doctor has prescribed — from therapy to reduce the stress that can trigger symptoms, to acupuncture or herbal concoctions.
Aromatherapy, or the use of naturally derived aromatic oils from various plants as a health and wellness aid, is another option to try.
Aromatherapy May Help You Manage Ulcerative Colitis
“Studies have shown that ingredients in essential oils used in aromatherapy may have anti-inflammatory or analgesic [pain-relieving] properties, and some may help boost your mood and energy,” says Hallie Armstrong, ND, a naturopathic physician at Beaumont Health in West Bloomfield, Illinois. “It may be that these properties can help you manage symptoms, like pain and fatigue, that come with UC.”
There is research to support the effectiveness of aromatherapy in treating a range of medical conditions. A review published in August 2015 in the Asian Pacific Journal of Tropical Biomedicine found that essential oils extracted from plant parts may reduce inflammation, relieve symptoms of indigestion, and treat skin infections, among other benefits.
However, it’s important to note that most studies have been done in animals, so the findings may not translate to humans. More robust studies in people are needed to determine if the health claims around essential oils hold true.
Still, if you’d like to give essential oils a try, they may enhance your overall well-being if used in a safe way. Talk to your doctor if you have any concerns before, after, or while using essential oils.
How to Use Essential Oils for Ulcerative Colitis
Most essential oils should not be ingested. Instead, you can try adding a few drops of an essential oil to a neutral carrier oil, such as jojoba, and massaging that into your stomach. Or you can pour the oil into an aromatherapy diffuser to enhance well-being through inhalation of essential oils.
Which Essential Oils Might Help Soothe Colitis Symptoms?
There’s some evidence that the following oils can help alleviate UC symptoms:
Patchouli Used as a medicinal aid in Eastern cultures for centuries, patchouli oil may be helpful for ulcerative colitis sufferers. A study published in July 2017 in the journal Pharmacological Research found that in mice with induced colitis, patchouli (in the form of patchouli alcohol administered orally) suppressed inflammation and ameliorated symptoms.
Peppermint Oil This aromatic oil helps with general digestive symptoms, mostly because it has anti-spasmodic (soothing) properties. It can also ease complaints like gas and bloating, says Dr. Armstrong. In fact, a review published in 2019 in the journal BMC Complementary Medicine and Therapies concluded that peppermint oil is a safe and effective way to ease gastrointestinal pain. Peppermint can be sold as oil or as a supplement that you take orally. If using peppermint as a supplement, Armstrong says to be sure you choose enteric-coated capsules for best absorption.
Turmeric Oil You may know and use this spice, often enjoyed in Indian dishes, but turmeric can also be used as an essential oil. The active ingredient in turmeric is curcumin, which has been shown to reduce inflammation, a key factor in ulcerative colitis. Research published in the Indian Journal of Pharmacology found that oil of turmeric offers significant anti-inflammatory properties. Several small studies in humans, including one published May 2020 in Phytotherapy Research, have found that curcumin, taken in supplement form, may help ease symptoms of mild to moderate ulcerative colitis. And a meta-analysis published in November 2019 in Annals of Gastroenterology noted that curcumin, when combined with the UC medicine mesalamine, produces a better clinical response.
Lavender Oil There’s some evidence to suggest that lavender oil may promote better sleep. Research published in July 2015 in the Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine found that inhaled lavender combined with sleep hygiene — such as going to bed at a regular time and avoiding food, alcohol, and caffeine before bed — was more effective at improving sleep quality than sleep hygiene alone. As a study published in January 2020 in Scientific Reports reveals, as many as two-thirds of people with IBD experience trouble with sleep, so adding lavender oil to your routine may help you get much-needed rest.
What to Know Before You Try Essential Oils for Colitis
Finally, notes Armstrong, be sure the oil you buy is pure. To find out, “release a drop on a white piece of paper. After it evaporates, a pure oil won’t leave a stain.” Also, she adds, don’t stop taking medication, and tell your doctor about any essential oils or supplements you may try.
Any alternative therapy is a complementary therapy, which means that it should work alongside your conventional treatment. Check with your doctor before trying any alternative therapy, including aromatherapy, says Armstrong.
Additional reporting by Ashley Welch.
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Using Essential Oils to support Colitis
If you have ulcerative colitis (UC), you may already be taking medication, such as an anti-inflammatory or corticosteroid, to address symptoms and to help stave off flare-ups. And while conventional medical treatment can be effective, many long time UC sufferers are continually looking for alternative treatments to go along with what their doctor has prescribed — from therapy to reduce the stress that can trigger symptoms, to acupuncture or herbal remedies.
Aromatherapy, or the use of naturally derived aromatic oils from various plants as a health and wellness aid, is another tack to try.
“Studies have shown that ingredients in essential oils used in aromatherapy may have anti-inflammatory or analgesic (pain-relieving) properties, and some may help boost your mood and energy,” says Hallie Armstrong, ND, a naturopathic physician at Beaumont Health in West Bloomfield, Illinois. “It may be that these properties can help you manage symptoms, like pain and fatigue, that come with UC.”
There is research to support the effectiveness of aromatherapy in treating a range of medical conditions. A review published in August 2015 in the Asian Pacific Journal of Tropical Biomedicine found that essential oils extracted from plant parts can effectively reduce inflammation, relieve symptoms of indigestion, and treat skin infections, among other benefits.
Some essential oils can be ingested. You can try adding a few drops of an essential oil to a neutral carrier oil, such as coconut or jojoba, and massaging that into your stomach. Or you can add a drop of the oil into an aromatherapy diffuser to enhance well-being through inhalation of essential oils.
Here are some essential oils you can try using to relieve symptoms of UC:
Peppermint Oil This aromatic oil helps with general digestive symptoms, mostly because it has anti-spasmodic (soothing) properties. It can also ease complaints like gas and bloating, says Dr. Armstrong. Peppermint can be sold as oil or as a supplement that you take orally.
Basil Oil The essential oil derived from this delicious herb acts as a carminative, which means it can help ease gastric upset, potentially by calming intestinal spasms. Eating basil leaves or making basil tea may also have stomach-soothing benefits.
Turmeric Oil You may know and use this spice, often enjoyed in Indian dishes, but turmeric can also be used as an essential oil. The active ingredient in turmeric is curcumin, which has been shown to reduce inflammation, a key factor in ulcerative colitis. I have found that oil of turmeric offers significant anti-inflammatory properties.
There is also a blend that can also support you called ZenGest here is some further information:
- Ginger Rhizome/Root oil
- Peppermint Plant oil
- Caraway Seed oil
- Coriander Seed oil
- Anise Seed oil
- Tarragon Plant oil
- Fennel Seed oil
ZenGest can support the following:
- Before a road trip, apply one to two drops for a calming aroma.
- Have ZenGest on hand when enjoying heavy holiday meals to promote digestion.
- When traveling or trying new foods take ZenGest to soothe occasional stomach discomfort.
- Add to water or tea to maintain a healthy gastrointestinal tract.
- Eases feelings of queasiness.
- Use with fractionated coconut oil for a soothing abdominal massage.
- Helps reduce bloating, gas, and occasional indigestion.
Why this combination of oil?
Ginger, Fennel and Coriander are in the mix to help with occasional stomach discomfort like indigestion and motion sickness.
Peppermint, Tarragon, Anise and Caraway help to maintain a healthy gastrointestinal tract; they help with digestion.
The combination of these oils are ideal to help with any stomach discomfort! My favourite part about using ZenGest is that I don’t have to worry about any “side effects” that I have had previously from the many prescribed digestive medications I have taken. Knowing that it is 100% pure and all natural, gathered from the plants in their natural habitat puts my mind, and gut, at ease.
Why the oil blend when there are supplements I can take?
I love the oils for “on the go” situations, and immediate relief! The best part about having ZenGest oil on hand is that within seconds of rubbing it on my belly I feel relief!
You know those days when you feel nauseous and it just won’t go away? Or when you are so bloated that you feel miserable? A drop of ZenGest rubbed directly onto your gut and you will feel instant relief! I have literally watched my clients bloat go down within minutes after rubbing ZenGest oil on their tummy!
Can I use ZenGest oil other ways besides just rubbing it on my tummy?
There are lots of ways to use ZenGest. Many new mothers, unfortunately, have to deal with a restless baby at night, often caused by stomach discomfort. ZenGest, diluted with fractionated coconut oil, on the bottom of the feet of those sweet babies, is a great way to use ZenGest. I have had multiple new mothers tell me how thankful they are for this oil because they are now able to get a good night’s sleep, along with their baby!
You can also take the pure ZenGest oil internally, in a capsule is perfect. I can also recommend the softgels they are a great way to use them too.
You can also use ZenGest oil for a stomach soothing tea! Just add 1 drop to a cup of warm water. I personally am a bigger fan of Peppermint oil tea to help soothe an upset stomach! I think personal preference is what it comes down to.
Any alternative therapy is a complementary therapy, which means that it should work alongside your conventional treatment.
Cannabis and cannabis oil for the treatment of ulcerative colitis
What is ulcerative colitis?
Ulcerative colitis is a chronic, long-term disease that causes inflammation of the colon and rectum. Symptoms may include diarrhea, rectal bleeding, mucus passage, and abdominal pain. The disease is characterized by alternating periods of acute relapses, when patients experience symptoms, with periods of remission, when symptoms stop.
What are cannabis and cannabinoids?
Cannabis is a widely used recreational drug that has many effects on the body through the endocannabinoid system. Cannabis contains many subcomponents called cannabinoids. Cannabis and cannabis oil containing specific cannabinoids can cause cognitive changes such as feelings of euphoria and altered sensory perception. However, some cannabinoids, such as cannabidiol, do not have a psychoactive effect. Cannabis and some cannabinoids have been shown to reduce inflammation in animals and in laboratory models, suggesting benefits for people with ulcerative colitis. Cannabidiol is one such cannabinoid that has shown anti-inflammatory activity in mice.
What did the researchers study?
Researchers assessed whether cannabis or cannabis oil (cannabidiol) was superior to placebo (ie, a mock drug) in treating adults with active ulcerative colitis or ulcerative colitis in remission. The researchers conducted an extensive medical literature search up to January 2, 2018.
What did the researchers find?
Two studies with 92 adult participants with ulcerative colitis were included. Both studies evaluated cannabis therapy in participants with active ulcerative colitis. No studies were found evaluating cannabis therapy in patients with ulcerative colitis in remission. In one study (60 participants), 10 weeks of treatment with cannabis oil D9 capsules-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) up to 4.7% compared with placebo in participants with low to moderate activity ulcerative colitis. The initial dose of cannabidiol was 50 mg twice a day, and if well tolerated, it was increased to the target dose of 250 mg twice a day. Another study (32 participants) compared 8 weeks of treatment with 2 cigarettes containing 0.5 g of cannabis per day (corresponding to 11.5 mg of THC) with placebo cigarettes in participants with ulcerative colitis who did not respond to standard medical therapy.
A study comparing cannabis oil capsules with placebo found no difference in remission rates after 10 weeks. 24% (7 of 29) of participants treated with cannabidiol achieved clinical remission, compared to 26% (8 of 31) of those treated with placebo. The study also showed a higher self-reported quality of life for participants who received cannabis oil compared to those who received placebo. Participants who received cannabis oil experienced more side effects compared to those who received placebo. These side effects were mild or moderate in severity. Common side effects reported were dizziness, attention disturbance, headache, nausea, and fatigue. None of the patients in the cannabis oil group experienced serious side effects. 10% (3/31) of patients in the placebo group had a serious side effect. Serious side effects in the placebo group included worsening symptoms of ulcerative colitis and one pregnancy complication.
A second study comparing 2 cannabis cigarettes (23 mg THC/day) with placebo cigarettes showed lower rates of disease activity in the cannabis group compared to the placebo group. Levels of C-reactive protein and fecal calprotectin (both indicators of inflammation in the body) were similar in both groups. No serious side effects were reported. The remission rate was not reported in this study.
Terminals
The effect of cannabis and cannabis oil on ulcerative colitis remains unclear and firm conclusions cannot be drawn about their efficacy and safety in adults with active ulcerative colitis. There is no evidence to support the use of cannabis or cannabis oil to maintain remission in ulcerative colitis. Further studies with a larger number of participants are needed to evaluate the effects of cannabis in people with active and inactive ulcerative colitis. Different doses and routes of administration of cannabis should be considered. Finally, follow-up is needed to evaluate the long-term safety of frequent cannabis use.
Translation notes:
Translation: Golyuchenko Olga Anatolyevna. Editing: Kukushkin Mikhail Evgenievich. Project coordination for translation into Russian: Cochrane Russia – Cochrane Russia (branch of the Northern Cochrane Center based at Kazan Federal University). For questions related to this translation, please contact us at: [email protected]; [email protected]
Peppermint essential oil – 20 uses / Blog / JUST Ukraine
Peppermint oil is very popular in aromatherapy, cosmetology, medicine and even cooking. Its properties are so well studied that one bottle of peppermint essential oil at home (and not only) can protect us from many problems. We offer a checklist of 20 questions that can be solved with peppermint oil.
Prevention
1. Headache . Mint helps to get rid of headaches, including migraines. Mixed with base oil Rub into whiskey. You can also use it in an aroma lamp. It is important to remember that mint helps in the initial stages. If the head hurts for a long time – mint is no longer worth using.
2. Prevention of SARS and other colds. Oils of different types of mint have antiviral and antibacterial effects. Can be sprayed indoors or dripped onto the lapel of a coat, jacket or scarf before visiting crowded places.
3. Snoring . This oil helps with snoring. In foreign blogs, it is often mentioned that it helps when taking a small amount inside (1 drop per 1 teaspoon of honey, diluted in a glass of water). Drink a few sips before bed. And snoring is greatly reduced. An aroma lamp with this oil or a drop in a face cream or base oil applied to the face will also be effective.
4. High blood pressure . Regular inhalation of peppermint oil helps reduce pressure figures and avoid crises.
See also: How to soothe a headache Nausea . Inhaling the aroma of peppermint essential oil , you will quickly get rid of nausea.
6. Seasickness . If you get motion sickness, inhale this oil to reduce motion sickness symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, and dizziness. For this purpose, you can apply mint on a napkin or handkerchief, or on your wrists (pre-diluted in base ).
7. Mental work . If you need to concentrate, for example, before an exam or a test, or if you are doing some kind of complex mental work, the aroma of mint will help you cheer up and also improve your ability to learn. Peppermint has a refreshing effect on our mind during prolonged exertion.
8. Driving a car . You can also use this oil while driving a car to keep your focus, especially when you have not had enough sleep or are very tired.
9. Antidepressant . The aroma of peppermint oils relieves pessimistic moods and helps to perceive difficult situations more adequately. Peppermint essential oil is one of the mild natural antidepressants.
See also: Base oils. What is it and how to use them in aroma massage?
Skin Care
10. Rashes . Menthol, which is part of mint, has a pronounced antiviral effect. Apply pure oil to herpetic vesicles several times a day.
11. Shave . Try using this oil as an aftershave for a nice cooling effect and soothes irritation. Remember to premix with base . Or make a homemade cream two in one – for and after shaving.
12. Deodorant . Peppermint is a great natural deodorant. Just apply a couple of drops under the armpit.
13. Edema . Help tired and buzzing feet massage with mint oil . It activates blood circulation, removes swelling and changes heaviness to a pleasant lightness.
14. Physical activity . Improves endurance. You can use it before going to the gym to increase the intensity and effectiveness of your workouts.
See also: Deodorant – good or bad?
Antifungal agent
15. Dandruff . A few drops of Peppermint Oil added to your favorite shampoo will help get rid of dandruff and itchy scalp.
16. Fungus . Mint prevents the appearance of fungal infections.
Oral Care
17. Breathing . Peppermint essential oil is great for freshening breath and helping with bad breath. For this purpose, you can add 1 cap. oil to toothpaste, directly on a toothbrush, or in a regular face cream – thanks to its high bioavailability, it will get to the address pretty quickly. But please note that use as an additive to toothpaste is possible only for very high quality oil. And the cream as a carrier should be completely from natural ingredients.
18. Teeth . After tooth extraction, peppermint oil helps relieve pain and removes swelling. Do a rinse.
See also: 11 reasons to use mouthwash 4 19. Insects . By mixing peppermint essential oil with water, you get an effective repellant that repels mosquitoes, ants and flies.