Essential oils have been used for hundreds of years to help relieve pain and cure illnesses. Peppermint oil boasts many health benefits, including helping with arthritis, skin infections and toothaches. You can take peppermint oil internally, apply it to the skin or inhale it. When used properly, peppermint oil can help lessen cold and flu symptoms.
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Rub 4 to 6 drops of peppermint oil directly on the abdomen, focusing around the navel area, to help relieve an upset stomach. Applying peppermint oil to the stomach will help relieve nausea, diarrhea and indigestion--all common flu symptoms.
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Reduce a fever by rubbing about 5 drops of peppermint oil on the bottom of each foot. Fevers are more common with the flu but can occasionally occur with colds as well.
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Rub 1 drop of peppermint oil on your temples, forehead and sinuses to help relieve headaches. Both cold and flu sufferers often report having mild to severe headaches. You can also apply a drop of peppermint oil to the back of your neck if you feel your headache is radiating throughout your entire upper body.
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Put one drop of peppermint oil on your tongue and then inhale. This will help clear your nasal passages and sinuses to relieve the uncomfortable congestion that often accompanies a cold or the flu. This method can also help provide relief during allergy season.
Tips & Warnings
- You can purchase peppermint oil at most health food stores.
- Peppermint oil can also reduce fatigue, stop the hiccups, improve concentration and help with bad breath.
- Try adding a few drops of peppermint oil to a cup of tea to help with indigestion and provide relief from heartburn.
- Avoid getting peppermint oil in your eyes or on other sensitive areas.
- Do not apply peppermint oil to broken skin to avoid irritation.
- Talk to you doctor before using peppermint oil if you are currently pregnant or nursing.
