What is peppermint oil good for around the house? My mother-in-law just gave me some essential oils to try. She said peppermint is good for cleaning. Is that true?
Jessica Christiansen, Burley, ID
Cleaning is only one small part of what is peppermint oil good for these days. Sure, it can deodorize and disinfect, but it can also do much more than that. Since peppermint oil is so strong, it is always a good idea to dilute it in a carrier oil. This is one of the popular olive oil uses. You could also use another type of oil, like almond.
To illustrate, you can make your own peppermint toothpaste with it. Moreover, it doubles as a facial toner, or you can mix up a peppermint face mask with milk and kaolin clay.
Peppermint essential oil also stops the sting and itch of bug bites. Plus, it repels garden pests like spider mites, aphids, mice, and mosquitoes. If you suffer from sore feet or muscles, try peppermint oil on your skin. It soothes aches and pains.
Alternatively, peppermint helps digestion and eases hunger cravings. Even just smelling the scent of peppermint can help you feel more energetic.
If dandruff is a problem in your home, try applying a few drops of peppermint to coconut or olive oil, then massage that into your scalp. Let it work for half an hour while you wear a shower cap.
Also, if you know someone with thinning hair, tell them to try the homemade rosemary mint shampoo on this page: https://www.tipsbulletin.com/peppermint-oil-uses-benefits/ It increases blood circulation and can fight, DHT, one of the main causes of hair loss.
Sunburn is usually a literal pain unless you treat it with peppermint, aloe, and coconut oil. Again, check out the article I referenced to get the recipe.
In conclusion, enjoy the peppermint oil to the maximum. There are more ways to use it than I listed here. Once you begin exploring the possibilities, you may want to ask for more.