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PEPPERMINT
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Constituents
Volatile oil (up to 1.5%), including menthol (35-55%), menthone (10-40%)
Flavonoids (luteolin, menthoside)
Phenolic acids
Triterpenes
Actions
Carminative
Relieves muscle spasms
Increases sweating
Stimulates secretion of bile
Antiseptic
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There are many mint varieties, but only one peppermint, Mentha x piperita. Other herbs have similar therapeutic properties, but they are milder.
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USES
Digestive headaches
Eczema
Gas & bloating
Nausea with headache
Neuralgia
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External
Dilute the essential oil to 2% and dab on the temples to ease a headache. A lotion made with an infusion of peppermint soothes irrated skin.
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Internal
Drink a cup of peppermint tea after meals to improve digestion. A dilution of the oil is used as an inhalant and chest rub for respiratory infections.
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Cautions
Do not give peppermint to children under the age of five. Do not take the essential oil internally except under professional supervision. External use of the essential oil can be an irritant as I experienced (see skin-burn-eo in the ailment column of herbal remedies).
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