SOME months ago, this column carried an article on mint.  The article treated mint as a folk medicine, but did make some reference to peppermint oil.
In this offering, we will be dealing with approximately 20 uses of peppermint oil and although the uses identified are different, the treatment tends to be similar.  We would however not try to consolidate, but would deal with every use and its treatment individually.

Peppermint is derived from a species of herb, mint, which has over 20 varieties, but the two varieties most known are peppermint and spearmint. The main component of these mint species is menthol.

Peppermint oil, which has more menthol than spearmint, is extracted from the peppermint plant.
Peppermint oil was used for thousands of years and was known among the Greeks, Romans, Chinese and Indians.  Indeed, it is still an important item in modern Chinese pharmacopeia.  Two Chinese produced peppermint-based products, Shiling Oil and Tiger Balm, are well known and widely used in Guyana.
Although peppermint oil was known and used in the 19th century by Western countries (even in producing other medicines), it was only in the last few generations that intensive research on it had been done.  Such research found that peppermint oil could bring relief to several kinds of ailments including digestive problems, bacterial infections, inflammation, fatigue, muscular soreness, congestion, allergies, headaches and halitosis.
Below, we list a number of ailments and their peppermint oil treatment.  (These were taken from a reputable publication on alternative medicine.)

Boosting of energy:
To improve mental and physical energy and clarity level, inhale peppermint oil throughout the day. This may be done via the use of an inhaler or merely by sprinkling a few drops on a kerchief.

Getting rid of dandruff:
Peppermint oil possesses anti-fungal and anti-microbial properties, which allows it to combat dandruff effectively.

Relieves muscular pain:
The menthol in peppermint oil has significant anti-spasmodic and anti-painkilling effects and a few drops mixed in coconut oil and massaged or rubbed on the affected muscle would bring relief.

Sore joints:
Sore joints and sore muscles are treated the same way. Simply mix a few drops of peppermint oil in coconut oil and rub the affected joints.
Reducing allergies:
Smelling the peppermint oil directly or inhaling the vapour from a few drops mixed in very hot water could reduce allergy symptoms such as drainage and coughing.

Relieving rashes and itching:

A few drops of peppermint oil in olive oil or coconut oil rubbed on the affected area would bring quick relief.

Insect repellant:

A few drops of peppermint oil in olive or coconut oil rubbed on the exposed parts would repel mosquitos and other bugs.

Calming acne:
A few drops of peppermint oil in olive oil rubbed on the affected area would allow the anti-bacterial and anti-microbial properties of the oil to act.

Relieves headaches:

A few drops of oil rubbed on the temples, neck and shoulders would relieve headaches.

Relieving Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) and bloating:

The relief of bowel pain, distension and gas can be achieved by mixing a few drops of peppermint oil in any carrier oil before applying externally to the abdomen; ingesting a few drops in water or in capsule form can also help.

Reducing nausea:
Take peppermint oil capsule or a few drops at the outset of the symptoms of nausea and vomiting.

Freshens breath:
Many toothpaste brands and various types of mouthwash use peppermint.  Place a few drops in water and gargle.

Killing toenail fungus:
Four to five drops on the discoloured nail daily will allow its antimicrobial properties to act.

Relieves stress:
Peppermint oil is very popular in Aromatherapy and persons can feel relaxed and refreshed by inhaling throughout the day.

Soothes sore throat:
Gargling a few drops of peppermint oil in water help.

Clearing stuffy nose:

Inhaling peppermint oil would clear mucus congestion from the nose.