Aromatherapy and Essential Oils

mint (Mentha arvensis)

Character Hot and cold; stimulating

Mint is distilled from the whole herb, an invasive herbaceous plant. There are many species, including Peppermint and Spearmint, all of which are used widely in medicines and flavouring confectionery, toothpaste, etc. In Greek mythology, Mentha was a nymph, who was pursued by Pluto, the god of the underworld. His jealous wife trod her into the ground, but Pluto ensured her survival by transforming her into a herb. Mint has been used for centuries for digestive problems; in warm climates mint tea is commonly drunk after meals. The oil is also used in embrocations and inhalants. While best known for digestive and respiratory conditions, it has other known but very useful applications.

Aroma Minty, fresh, slightly sweet, powerful.

Properties Anti-inflammatory, analgesic, antiseptic, antispasmodic, astringent, carminative, clarifying, cooling, detoxifying, deodorising, pain-relieving, refreshing, stimulating, vasoconstrictor.

Physical conditions Digestion Useful for bad breath, colic, constipation, diarrhoea, flatulence, food poisoning, gastritis, indigestion, nausea, nervous dyspepsia, vomiting

Eliminatory system Irritable bowel; encourages perspiration

Musculosketal system Anti-inflammatory for muscle aches and pains. Excellent for aching feet

Nervous system Pain relieving, eases headaches, migraines

Respiratory system Clearing for colds, flu and sinus congestion, and laryngitis

Skin Cooling for inflammation, sunburn, irritation; can help dermatitis and ringworm. Balances greasy skin, helps remove blackheads.

Mental/emotional conditions For shyness and hypersensitivity to many things; for those dominated by strong likes and dislikes.

Other uses Travel sickness; shock, faintness, vertigo

Applications Bath. Face oil/lotion. Facial steaming. Footbath. Hair oil/rinse. Inhalation. Massage. Mouthwash. Room fragrance.

* N.B. Use with caution and dilute well, as this oil is extremely powerful and could cause irritation of skin and mucous membranes.

Blends well with Best left alone as it overwhelms other essences.