What Is The Best Pure Peppermint Oil?

Peppermint oil is derived from the peppermint plant, which is a hybrid of watermint and spearmint. It has been used for centuries for its medicinal properties and refreshing aroma. Peppermint essential oil contains menthol, menthone, and limonene, which give it its cooling, invigorating effect. Today, peppermint oil is commonly used in aromatherapy, skin and hair care, and as a dietary supplement.

When using peppermint oil, it’s important to choose a high quality, pure oil. Many peppermint oils are diluted or contain synthetic ingredients. Pure peppermint oil that is steam distilled from the peppermint plant will provide the full range of benefits. It has a strong, penetrating aroma compared to diluted versions. The purity and quality of the oil can affect its therapeutic properties and how well it works for health and wellness applications.

What is Peppermint Oil?

Peppermint oil is extracted from the peppermint plant (Mentha piperita), a hybrid of water mint and spearmint. The plant contains menthol, menthone, and other volatile oils that give it its distinct minty aroma and flavor. There are a few main ways peppermint oil is extracted:

Steam distillation: The most common method, where steam is passed through crushed peppermint leaves, causing the oils to evaporate and then be condensed and collected.

Supercritical carbon dioxide extraction: Uses carbon dioxide under high pressure to selectively extract the volatile oils.

Expression: Applies pressure to the peppermint plant to squeeze out the essential oils.

The main chemical components of peppermint oil are menthol (35-45%) and menthone (10-30%), which give it its cooling, refreshing sensation. Other components include menthyl acetate, 1,8-cineole, limonene, beta-pinene, and beta-caryophyllene [1].

Benefits and Uses

Peppermint oil has been used for centuries for its many therapeutic benefits. Some of the top uses include:

Aromatherapy and Relaxation

Peppermint essential oil contains menthol, which produces a cooling sensation. Studies show inhaling peppermint oil can improve energy and mental focus. It may also help relieve tension headaches when applied on the forehead and temples (NCCIH).

Pain Relief

Peppermint oil is often used topically to help relieve muscle, nerve and joint pain. One study found applying peppermint oil on the temples and forehead was as effective as acetaminophen for headache pain relief (WebMD).

Digestive Aid

The menthol in peppermint oil helps relax smooth muscle in the GI tract. Studies show taking peppermint oil capsules can significantly reduce symptoms of IBS like abdominal pain, bloating, and gas (Healthline).

Antimicrobial Properties

Research indicates peppermint oil has antiviral, antibacterial, and antifungal properties. It’s been shown to inhibit the growth of certain bacteria and fungi. Peppermint oil is also sometimes used to help treat skin irritations and itchiness.

How to Choose Peppermint Oil

There are several key things to look for when selecting a high quality peppermint essential oil:

First, make sure the oil is labeled 100% pure or 100% natural. Pure peppermint oil should not contain any synthetic additives or fillers (source).

Look for an indication that the peppermint oil is organic. Organic oils come from plants grown without pesticides and are generally considered higher quality (source).

Purchase peppermint oil from a reputable brand known for producing high quality essential oils. Trusted companies will provide information on their sourcing and extraction methods (source).

Make sure the peppermint oil underwent proper steam distillation. This gentle extraction method preserves the therapeutic compounds in the oil (source).

With these criteria in mind, you can identify a top quality peppermint essential oil to suit your needs.

Top Peppermint Oils

When it comes to the best peppermint oil brands, three stand out as top choices:

Nature’s Oil Peppermint Essential Oil

Nature’s Oil offers a pure certified organic therapeutic grade peppermint oil. It’s steam distilled from peppermint leaves and contains no additives or fillers. Reviewers praise it for its pure, potent scent and say it’s excellent for aromatherapy, skin care, and more.

NaturoBliss Peppermint Essential Oil

The NaturoBliss peppermint oil is a top pick for its high quality and reasonable price. It’s 100% pure, undiluted, and steam distilled. Many reviewers say it’s one of the best for aromatherapy and diffusing. It also works well for skin applications.

Aura Cacia Organic Peppermint Oil

For an organic option, Aura Cacia’s peppermint oil is USDA certified organic, non-GMO, and sourced from Washington and India. It has a strong, invigorating aroma praised by reviewers. The dark glass bottle preserves the oil well.

What is a Therapeutic Grade?

There is no official grading system for classifying essential oils as “therapeutic grade” or “aromatherapy grade.” The terms are marketing language used by some essential oil companies, but they have no real meaning or verifiable standards in the industry.

The FDA does not regulate the term “therapeutic grade,” and there are no established 3rd party certification standards. Any pure, undiluted essential oil is considered suitable for aromatherapy use. However, some companies test their oils for purity and potency through 3rd party laboratories to ensure quality and provide test reports.

Companies like Eden Botanicals [1] encourage looking for GC/MS (gas chromatography/mass spectrometry) testing reports as proof of purity for any essential oils purchased. The GC/MS tests identify any adulteration and contamination. However, therapeutic grade labeling does not guarantee the oil is pure or high quality on its own.

How to Use Peppermint Oil

When using peppermint oil topically, it’s important to dilute it properly to avoid skin irritation. According to the National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health (https://www.nccih.nih.gov/health/peppermint-oil), peppermint oil should be diluted with a carrier oil like coconut or olive oil. For adults, mix 3-4 drops of peppermint oil per ounce of carrier oil. For children, use 1 drop of peppermint oil per ounce of carrier oil.

Peppermint oil is very potent, so start with a low concentration and perform a skin test before wide application. Avoid contact with eyes, noses, mouths, or sensitive areas. Do not apply peppermint oil to the face of infants or children due to the risk of breathing problems.

When inhaling peppermint oil, add only 2-3 drops to a diffuser or inhale directly from the bottle. Do not ingest peppermint oil unless it is a food-grade oil meant for consumption. Seek medical advice before using peppermint oil if you have gastroesophageal reflux disease, hiatal hernia, or other health conditions.

Always store peppermint oil properly in a cool, dark place and keep out of reach of children. Use caution when driving or operating machinery after using peppermint oil, as it may impair cognition.

Recipes and Remedies

Peppermint oil can be used in homemade recipes and remedies for various health conditions:

Headache Remedy

To help relieve tension headaches, mix 2-3 drops of peppermint oil with 1 tablespoon of carrier oil like coconut or jojoba oil. Massage the mixture on your temples, forehead and back of neck. The cooling sensation can help numb pain and relax muscles (Source).

Nausea Aid

The strong scent of peppermint oil can help relieve feelings of nausea. Add 2-3 drops to a cotton ball or handkerchief and inhale when needed. You can also dilute 1 drop with a carrier oil and rub it gently into the abdomen (Source).

Mental Clarity/Focus Blend

To help promote mental clarity and focus, combine 2 drops of peppermint oil, 1 drop rosemary oil and 1 drop cinnamon oil. Rub diluted oils on your wrists, temples and neck before studying or working (Source).

Risks and Considerations

Although peppermint oil is generally considered safe when used appropriately, there are some risks and considerations to be aware of:

Skin irritation – Peppermint oil can cause skin rashes, inflammation and irritation when applied topically, especially on sensitive skin. It should be diluted properly before use and a skin test should be conducted to check for allergic reactions (NCCIH).

Allergic reactions – Some people may experience allergic reactions to peppermint oil, ranging from mild to severe. Discontinue use if any allergy symptoms develop such as hives, itching or swelling (WebMD).

Interactions with medications – Peppermint oil can interact with certain medications and inhibit their absorption or activity. Those on medication should consult a doctor before using peppermint oil, especially antacids, blood pressure and diabetes medications (WebMD).

The Takeaway

When it comes to choosing the best pure peppermint oil, there are a few key things to keep in mind. First, look for an oil that is steam distilled and undiluted. This ensures you are getting 100% pure peppermint essential oil. Second, verify the quality and purity by looking for indicators like USDA organic certification or a therapeutic grade rating. Third, choose a reputable brand known for high standards in sourcing and testing. Finally, make sure to properly dilute and store your peppermint oil to get the most benefits.

Based on these criteria, some of the top pure peppermint oils are from brands like Plant Therapy, Eden’s Garden, Healing Solutions, and Radha Beauty. Any of these high-quality, pure peppermint oils would be an excellent choice for harnessing the many therapeutic benefits of peppermint. With its invigorating scent and versatility, pure peppermint oil can enhance energy, ease digestion, clear sinuses, freshen breath, and much more.