Peppermint is refreshing and stimulating. Used as a tea or oil, it is good for nervousness, insomnia, cramps, coughs, migrain, poor digestion, heartburn, nausea, abdominal pains, and various problems such as headache and vomiting due to nervous causes. In large quantities it is said to be an aphrodisiac. It's cooling and soothing qualities make it a wonderful bath additive for itching skin conditions. This herb is a valuable expectorant, a painkiller, and an antiseptic. It can reduce fevers in two ways; it induces sweating and it has a cooling effect on the body. Peppermint also promotes clarity of thought. It is often used as an emergency treatment for shock, because of it's stimulant properties.
Peppermint Tea
2-3 tsp dried peppermint leaves 1 cup boiling water Pour water over dried leaves, and leave to steep for 3-5 minutes. Strain and drink hot with or without honey to sweeten. Caution; Do not use longer than 12 consecutive days, as heart problems may result. Wait 1 week before resuming. Also do not use if you are pregnant.
Lemon & Peppermint Refresher
4 sprigs fresh peppermint 1/2 tsp sugar crushed ice 1/2 tsp lemon juice 2 tbsp grapefruit juice 1/2 cup chilled tonic water lemon slice, for decoration Crush two of the sprigs of peppermint with the sugar and put into a glass. Fill glass with crushed ice. Add lemon juice, grapefruit juice and tonic water. Stir gently and decorate with remaining peppermint sprigs and slice of lemon.
Peppermint Smelling Salts
1/2 tsp rock salt 5 drops peppermint oil Place salt in a small container. Add oil drop by drop. The salt will absorb the oil quickly. Carry in a closed container, opening and sniffing as needed.
Peppermint Headache Compress
3 drops peppermint oil 4 drops lavender oil 3 drops rose oil 2 cups cold water soft cloth Mix oil and water. Wet cloth then wring out and fold. Place cloth over eyes and forehead. Use as long as needed. (This compress also works well on cuts and scrapes. Instead of cold water, use warm and let cure for a couple of minutes before applying.)
Peppermint Steamer
4 drops peppermint oil 3 drops eucalyptus oil 2 drops lavender oil 2 drops sandalwood oil 2 cups boiling water Pour boiling water into a medium sized bowl. Add oils and inhale. (For more consentrated steaming....use a towel over head and bowl, making a tent to keep the steam in.)
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