The peppermint plant produces the extract known as peppermint oil. This oil is a thin pale yellow substance that is often blended with eucalyptus and lavender oils. The oil is often used as an ingredient of aromatherapy products, and this writing will describe some of the benefits of peppermint oil.

1. The oil has a cool feel to the skin and can be combined with a moisturizing cream and applied to soothe sunburn, to provide relief for dermatitis, acne and ringworm, as well as to soothe itchy irritated skin.

2. If the oil is inhaled through the use of a vaporizer, it helps promote greater concentration and stimulation for the mind.

3. The oil is used as a pain reliever in general, and also for headaches. It is mixed with carrier oil and rubbed on the temples, or on the abdomen for the relief of menstrual cramps, or on the joints for relief of arthritis.

4. The oil acts as an expectorant and decongestion, and will provide relief for respiratory and sinus problems. It is incorporated in chest rub products, and so helps give relief in bronchitis and colds. It can even be placed in the bath water or vaporizer to provide relief for congested airways.

5. The oil is useful as a tonic for what ails the digestive system. It is considered an anti-spasmodic which provides relief for conditions like, indigestion and irritable bowel syndrome, gas build up, and to facilitate bile production where the gallbladder is acting sluggishly.

6. Because of its antiseptic properties, it can be utilized in mouthwash to destroy bacteria and to prevent gum disease.

7. The healing properties and the great aroma of the oil are utilized by incorporating it in soaps and in skin products. Care should be taken when buying products with the oil in them, to ensure that that the essential oil of the product is included and not the synthetic version. The synthetic version not only does not have health benefits, but it can be an irritant to sensitive skins.

8. The oil is used to give the immune system a boost to get rid of toxins, by stimulating the lymphatic system.