There are many household uses for peppermint oil that one can incorporate to make their chores simpler and quicker! Keep reading to know more.
An Introduction to Peppermint
Essential oils are ingredients that offer tons of benefits in cleaning, relaxing, and other health and beauty benefits. Peppermint oil is an aromatic herb in the family of mint. It can be perfectly described as a great combination of spearmint and water mint. Found naturally in the continents of North America and Europe.
Peppermint oil is a treat for the senses and a multi-tasking ingredient that offers robust health, beauty, and household benefits. Now, one important thing to understand is that some peppermint oils are much stronger than others. They are extracted from the peppermint plants through distillation techniques and are termed as one of the best essential oils.
In addition to this, peppermint oil consists of a compound called menthol, which provides the taste, smell, and cooling sensation to this essential oil. Before we move ahead to know the different household uses of peppermint oil. Let’s learn about the various forms that this oil comes in. First, the essential oils, which is a very highly concentrated form used for stuff like aromatherapy and is diluted before use. The next is in the form of extracts that is a much more diluted form but is used to add the peppermint flavor to various foods, and lastly, it also comes in the form of capsules that are used as dietary supplements.
Household Uses for Peppermint Oil
The household uses of this peppermint oil promote a much more natural way of achieving high health and living standards. Some of the benefits and uses are listed below:
1. Fresh Aroma in the surroundings
You can simply add a few drops of peppermint oil to your dustbins and other products that carry out a foul smell. You can even use it to freshen up your bathroom space, a few drops of the peppermint oil will eliminate any foul smell from any surrounding.
2. All-Purpose Cleaning
Peppermint oil is an excellent alternative for all the homemade household cleaners, and you can make it by simply using a cup of water, adding some vinegar, and a teaspoon of soap to it. Finally, pour in a few drops of peppermint oil and mix it well to clean any surface in your house.
3. Insect and Spider Repellent
Warm water, five drops of peppermint oil, and a tinge of dish soap are the best repellent for all the pests and creepy insects in your home. Just put the mixture together in a spray bottle and use it in all the nooks and corners of your house.
4. Mouse Control
Mice are a big nuisance, and peppermint oil comes with a strong aroma that helps reduce the influx of these mice. You have to soak some cotton balls with drops of peppermint oil and throw them around all the cupboards and other places wherever you suspect any mouse activity.
5. Plant Health
If you spray your plants with diluted peppermint oil, it will discourage pests from attacking the plants and in-turn killing them.
6. Cleaning Mold
Adding just half a teaspoon of peppermint oil with some vinegar and salt can help alleviate the entire mold that is stubbornly lurking in the bathrooms and corners.
7. Health Benefits and Uses
Besides the plethora of household uses, peppermint oil also comes bearing various health benefits to individuals across the world. It helps in easing nausea and indigestion and is an excellent alternative for treating cold and congestion. Those who suffer from migraines and inflammation can also use this oil to moisturize and alleviate all such pain and trouble-causing symptoms.
8. Boosts Productivity and Energy
The refreshing smell of the essential oil can also help you lift your mood and productivity. You can inhale the oil’s Aroma from the bottle or rub a few drops of it behind your ear to energize yourselves.
9. Toothache Relief
The menthol in the peppermint oil can help dull intense pain and numb the area for some time. So, if you have a terrible toothache, rub some peppermint oil on your tooth and gums for temporary relief.
10. Eases Constipation
If you feel constipated– rub or massage some diluted peppermint essential oil (with olive oil) on your lower abdomen. The massage will help relieve the symptoms of constipation and help with bowel movements.
11. Foot Spa
Peppermint oil can be your answer to tired feet! A few drops of this oil in your foot bath can help you provide instant relaxation.
12. Treats Dandruff
Mixed with carrier oils, peppermint essential oil can help you get rid of dandruff. So, massage the diluted oil for a healthy, dandruff-free scalp.
Peppermint oil as an ingredient is so vast. The more you talk about it, the more you realize how abundant it is in terms of the functionalities it serves. In a time where most people are suffering from stress and anxiety daily; this particular aroma oil helps to alleviate anxiety and stress. Thus, not only is it useful, but it is also immensely safe for significant problems.
Usage Tip: Use in moderation as it can be a little toxic if used in large doses.
