Quick facts
| Feature | Information |
|---|---|
| Botanical name | Mentha × piperita |
| Plant part / method | leaves, steam distillation |
| Scent | cool, minty, fresh |
| Main constituents | menthol, menthone |
| Most common uses | morning or work diffuser, inhaling from cupped hands, diluted on the back of the neck |
| Watch out for | babies and young children, the eye area, pets, never take by mouth |
What people use it for
Peppermint is the classic “wake-up” scent: a few drops in a diffuser at the start of the day, a breath from cupped hands at your desk, or a cool accent while travelling. Some people also use it diluted in a neck massage. Menthol gives a feeling of coolness, but it is only a sensation — the oil does not “treat” anything.
How to use it
- Aromatically: 2–4 drops in a diffuser (it is very intense); start with one if your nose is sensitive.
- On the skin: only diluted, usually around 1% (1 drop per 5 ml of carrier oil), on the back of the neck or shoulders, away from the eyes and mucous membranes. Wash your hands afterwards.
- By mouth: don't.
Precautions
- Do not apply to the face, neck or chest of babies and young children, and do not diffuse in their room without advice — menthol can cause breathing problems.
- Avoid contact with your eyes; don't touch your face after handling the oil.
- If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, have a medical condition, take medication or have allergies, ask your doctor.
- Cats and dogs can be sensitive to oils — ventilate and let the animal leave the room.
- Keep away from flames and children.
Pairs well with
Lemon and Wild Orange (freshness and a light citrus lift), and a little Lavender if you want a softer scent.
