Peppermint Oil

Peppermint oil can be found in a variety of forms. Some examples include:

• essential oils, a very concentrated form that can be used for aromatherapy or diluted and applied to the skin
• extracts, a more diluted form that can be used to add peppermint flavor to foods
• capsules, which can be taken as dietary supplements

Peppermint oil has a sharp odor that’s cool and refreshing. Its taste is similar. You may be familiar with the coolness in your mouth after you consume something with a peppermint flavor.

The main chemical components of peppermint oil are menthol and menthone. However, there are many more as well.

Peppermint oil has a wide variety of uses. For example, it can be used as:

• a treatment for a variety of conditions, including irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), nausea, and other digestive issues, as well as the common cold and headaches
• a topical application for relief from itching, muscle pain, and headache
• a flavoring agent in foods and in products such as mouthwashes
• a fresh, pleasing scent added to soaps and cosmetic products