Peppermint Essential Oil

Latin name Mentha piperita – Family species Lamiaceae (Labiatae)

Peppermint, also referred to as Brandy Mint and Balm Mint, has a reputation for being wonderfully refreshing.

“Research has shown that the volatile oil is strongly antibacterial. Menthol (a constituent of the oil) is antiseptic, antifungal, cooling, and anesthetic to the skin, although it is also an irritant.” –The Encyclopedia of Medicinal Plants

“To soothe a fever, practitioners recommend cool compresses to which a couple of drops of peppermint oil have been added.” –Encyclopedia of Healing Therapies

Oil Selection Guide

Color – Clear (colorless) to pale yellow to greenish
Viscosity – Watery
Scent – Minty, strong, fresh, grassy, camphorous
Perfume Aroma – Top note

Oil Source Information

Plant Type – Herb
Parts Used – Whole plant (above ground)
Countries of Origin – United States, France, England, Italy, Russia, China
Extraction Method – Steam distillation

Known Chemical Constituents

menthol, menthone, iso menthone, menthofuran, menthol ester, limonene, pulegone, cineol

Applications and Uses

Peppermint oil is used in aromatherapy. It is also used to repel insects such as mosquitoes and gnats. Peppermint oil can be found as flavoring in pharmaceuticals and found in toothpastes, cough and cold medicines, throat drops and lozenges, chewing gum, soft drinks, alcoholic drinks, indigestion remedies, perfumes, soaps, cosmetics, detergents, and tobacco.

Peppermint blends well with

Recipes and Ideas

Precautions / Contraindications

It is claimed that peppermint essential oil may interfere with sleep if used too close to bedtime.
Possible sensitization.
Reportedly not compatible with homeopathic treatment.
As with all essential oils, be sure to buy peppermint oil from a reputable source if using in aromatherapy applications.
See also Essential Oils Safety and Usage.

References and Resources

See Aromatherapy References and Resources page.

Print article to PDF