Spearmint (Mentha spicata) is a species of mint used in all kinds of personal care products, such as toothpaste, mouthwash and lotion. It gets its name from its bright green, spear-shaped leaves. But there’s more to this Mediterranean herb than its pleasant aroma and astringent mouthfeel.

Europeans have used spearmint for centuries to treat issues like gas, bloating and indigestion. In India, natural healers also used spearmint to soothe skin problems and relieve headaches. Like other herbs, spearmint is now also available as an essential oil, which is steam-distilled from the flowering tops of the plant.

The benefits of spearmint essential oil

Some of the main active components of spearmint essential oil are alpha- and beta-pinene, menthol, limonene, carvone and cineole, to name a few. Experts believe these compounds are responsible for the health benefits of spearmint essential oil. These include:

• Speeds up wound healing – Spearmint essential oil has antiseptic properties thanks to caryophyllene, menthol and myrcene. Therefore, the oil is great for cleaning wounds and preventing them from becoming infected while also helping them heal faster.
• Relieves spasms – The menthol in spearmint essential oil helps relax nerves and muscles. This effect is particularly beneficial in case of spasms, abdominal cramps and muscle strains.
• Helps treat internal and external infections – Spearmint essential oil has potent antiviral, antifungal and antibacterial properties, which make it an effective disinfectant. Some studies suggest that it can even protect internal wounds like ulcers.
• Relieves gastrointestinal issues – Spearmint essential oil’s relaxing properties make it a safe natural remedy for gastrointestinal issues, such as stomachaches, indigestion and vomiting.
• Relieves stress – Spearmint essential oil has a soothing effect on the brain. It helps people concentrate, relieves headaches and reduces stress levels. Load it onto your diffuser and inhale the vapors for fast-acting relief from stress and stress-related health problems.
• Regulates menstruation – Previous studies have shown that spearmint essential oil promotes the secretion of estrogen, which helps regulate menstrual cycles. It also promotes good uterine health.
• Stimulates hormone production – Spearmint essential oil stimulates the secretion of important hormones and the discharge of enzymes and gastric juices. It also stimulates the nerves and supports healthy blood circulation.
• Restores health – Spearmint essential oil can help you regain your strength after a long bout of illness, thanks to its stimulant effect. It also helps maintain the proper functioning of major organ systems.
• Relieves insect bites and stings – When diluted in a carrier oil, spearmint essential oil can be safely applied on insect bites and stings for relief. You can also apply it on exposed skin to keep away mosquitoes.
• Helps relieve asthma – Spearmint essential oil has decongestant properties, meaning it can help ease congestion due to asthma, the common cold and the flu.

How to make an all-natural spearmint oil mouthwash

Spearmint is commonly used in oral care products, such as toothpaste and mouthwash. Follow the instructions below to make your own all-natural mouthwash with spearmint essential oil.

Ingredients:

• 10 drops spearmint essential oil
• 1 cup water
• 1/2 cup hydrogen peroxide

Directions:

1. Pour the water and hydrogen peroxide into a small colored jar.
2. Add the spearmint essential oil. Shake to combine.
3. Use after eating or in the morning for fresh breath.

Spearmint essential oil contains high concentrations of active compounds. Therefore, it needs to be diluted in a milder carrier oil, such as coconut oil or jojoba oil, before topical use. Make sure to do a patch test first before using the diluted mixture on your skin so you can check for signs of an allergic reaction before you’re exposed completely to the mixture.

Use only therapeutic-grade spearmint essential oil. It’s also best to consult a natural health practitioner to get the safest dosage.

Spearmint essential oil has been used for centuries to treat various ailments, including headaches, constipation and skin issues. Keep a bottle of it in your natural medicine cabinet.

Sources:

OrganicFacts.net

NaturesNurtureBlog.com