Peppermint US (USA)

• Plant Family: Lamiaceae (Labiatae).
• Method of Extraction: It is steam distilled from the leaves of the herb.
• Main Theraputic Properties: Analgesic, Antibacterial, Anticatarrhal, Anti-inflammatory, Antispasmodic, Digestive stimulant, Insect repellent.
• Contraindications: Do not use if pregnant or breastfeeding. Do not use on children.  Avoid using on people with epilepsy, heart disease or fever. Do not use at more than 2% dilution on the skin or mucous membrane areas. Do not apply more than 1ml per 24 hours.
• Oil Appearance: Clear.
• Chakra: Throat & Sacral.
• Chinese Element: Earth & Wood.

North America has become the world's largest producer of this oil, which is steam distilled from the leaves of the familiar, fast-growing herb. Most of the production goes into confectionery, toiletries and toothpaste, its sweet, cooling aroma is familiar to all of us.

The American crops are descendants of the highest quality peppermint. Because of the size of its crop, the USA has avoided the frequent adulteration of Peppermint oil, which occurs elsewhere in the world. US Peppermint can be used in exactly the same way as English Peppermint. Its aroma is lighter, less pungent and more familiar; some people prefer it.

To refresh tired feet, try blending 4 drops of Peppermint with 10ml of Sweet Almond and massage this well into the feet. For maximum benefit, the feet can then be soaked in warm or cool water for 10 minutes and patted dry.

Try 2 drops of Peppermint in a teaspoon of Grapeseed oil, massage into the abdomen, using clockwise strokes. This could also be blended with any of the seed oils to aid digestion. 

To refresh and awaken the senses add 3 drops each of Peppermint and Grapefruit oil to the water of and oil burner or diffuser.