How Peppermint Oil Can Benefit Your Health

Essential oils are no longer considered a fleeting fad; now, millions consider them, well, essential. Studies have shown essential oils can have a valuable impact on your health, from anxiety and nausea relief to decreasing insomnia and increasing appetite (per John Hopkins Medicine). Peppermint oil specifically has a broad range of benefits from treating gastrointestinal conditions, alleviating headaches, and soothing muscle pain.

According to Healthline, recent studies show that peppermint oil may relieve irritable bowel syndrome symptoms by calming the gastrointestinal tract muscles and offering anti-inflammatory effects. Oral capsules containing the oil may help reduce bloating, pain, and gas. Peppermint oil can also be helpful post-endoscopy by thwarting spasms in the gastrointestinal tract. Further evidence suggests a blend of peppermint and caraway oil can effectively treat functional dyspepsia (per Hindawi). You can even massage a few drops onto your belly to help alleviate menstrual cramps, but may want to consider blending with an unscented lotion. 

Headaches are a common nuisance, but if you find yourself popping ibuprofen like candy, you may want to put the pills down and give peppermint oil a try. According to Healthline, studies show the oil is effective in the treatment of tension and migraine headaches. One study showed a slight improvement in migraine pain, two hours after applying a menthol-based topical gel to the base of the skull. Another study found that massaging a menthol-based solution onto the temples and forehead lessened light sensitivity and nausea caused by migraines. 

Peppermint oil can also relieve muscle and arthritis pain through either inhalation, or massaging into the affected area (Medical News Today). To help soothe sore muscles, you can find over-the-counter topical pain creams and rubs containing peppermint oil, or you can make your own. However you choose to use essential oils in your life or on your body, discussing options with your doctor is always a good idea.