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| Peppermint Oil Health Benefits and Uses - Infographic from Dr. Josh Axe |
Peppermint (mentha piperita) is a mint plant and a natural hybrid cross between spearmint and water mint.
Archaeological and historical evidence suggests that peppermint has a long tradition of use as a medicinal herb in folk medicine and aromatherapy in ancient Egypt and Rome, and throughout Europe and Asia.
The leaves and essential oils (which are gathered by steam distillation) are used internally and externally in teas, tinctures, salves, enteric-coated capsules, and other preparations.
Research and Studies
The therapeutic actions of peppermint have or are currently being researched and studied in connection with various diseases and medical conditions including digestive issues, upper respiratory infections, fungal infections, memory problems, infantile colic, shingles, dental caries, hay fever, hair loss, radiation damage, and certain cancers.
So far, there have been over 300 scientific studies referring to peppermint essential oil.
IBS
It is thought that peppermint calms and relaxes stomach muscles and improves bile flow.
Several studies have shown that enteric-coated peppermint oil capsules can help treat symptoms of Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) including bloating, gas, abdominal cramps and pain, and diarrhea.
I recently wrote a blog entry on my experience using IBGard® for treating IBS-D (IBS with Diarrhea).
Other Uses
Although peppermint oil is perhaps best known for treating digestive related issues, the leaves and essential oil have many other uses:
Headaches
Stomach Aches
Stress
Asthma
Muscle Pain and Tightness
Bad Breath
Mental Focus
Energy Levels
Respiratory Expectorant and Decongestant
Allergies
Antimicrobial Agent
Infographic
This infographic from Dr. Josh Axe illustrates and describes 25 uses of peppermint oil.
To see the larger version of the infographic and read the full article about peppermint oil uses including health benefits, studies and research, potential interactions and concerns, and links to peppermint recipes such as a GI healing juice, please visit Top 25 Peppermint Oil Uses and Benefits - Dr. Josh Axe.
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