Peppermint: More Than Just A Popular Flavor

Got a headache? Sore throat? Upset stomach? Try peppermint! This popular flavor has some interesting healing properties.

by Jaime McLeod Updated: September 27, 2022

Refreshing, and slightly sweet, peppermint is a favorite food additive, used in everything from candies and schnapps to toothpaste and cough drops. More than just a flavor enhancer, though, peppermint can be incredibly beneficial for your health. Peppermint acts as a regulator and has a relaxing or invigorating effect, depending on the circumstances under which it is used. Here are just a few of the everyday health benefits peppermint oil can offer you and your family:

Benefits of Peppermint

Try rubbing it on the temples can provide relief from migraine headaches.
Chewing on peppermint candy can soothe a nagging cough or irritated throat. Menthol, a substance present in peppermint, is an effective decongestant.
For a therapeutic bath, put some drops of the diluted peppermint oil into tepid water to relieve stomach problems, nasal congestion, headaches, or cramps.
For insomnia or anxiety, drinking a cup of peppermint tea, or placing a tissue treated with a few drops each of peppermint oil and lavender oil, will provide a calming effect.
Drinking peppermint tea or sucking on real peppermint candy can also relieve an upset stomach and/or gas.
To soothe tired, sore, aching feet, try soaking in a tub of warm water containing few drops of peppermint oil. The essential oils can also help to heal dry, cracked skin.

Peppermint is generally easy to grow. In addition to emitting a pleasant scent, growing peppermint leaves can provide a natural herbal insect repellent, helping to discourage ants, flies, and mosquitoes from lingering near your home and garden.

Jaime McLeod

Jaime McLeod is a longtime journalist who has written for a wide variety of newspapers, magazines, and websites, including MTV.com. She enjoys the outdoors, growing and eating organic food, and is interested in all aspects of natural wellness.