While most people normally associate spearmint with toothpaste, gum, or mint candy, it has many other uses and health benefits. The usage of spearmint even dates back to ancient Greece. Spearmint is scientifically known as Mentha spicata, and the essential oil is extracted by steam distillation of the flowering tops of the spearmint plant. Despite it being very similar to peppermint essential oil in terms of its properties, spearmint essential oil is a milder option as the menthol content is almost negligible. Keep reading to find out some of the top tips and benefits of using spearmint essential oils in your daily life.
Promotes Digestion and Soothes an Upset Stomach
One of the top benefits of using spearmint essential oil is that it promotes digestion and aids in reducing an upset stomach by supporting the digestive system in breaking down food. For instance, when you experience stomach discomfort after a large meal, you can either add 3 drops of spearmint oil to 10ml of carrier oil and massage it into the abdomen, diffuse and inhale it, or dilute 1 drop of spearmint oil to 4fl oz of liquid and drink.
Alternatively, try adding one or two drops of spearmint essential oil into any recipe, dessert, or drink, for that added delicious minty flavor which also aids digestion.
Lifts Your Mood
If you’re feeling down or stressed lately, try using some spearmint oil to lift your mood and brighten up your day. Spearmint essential oil contains components such as carvone and limonene which have mood uplifting and relaxing properties. It has a crisp, clean, and cool aroma that will surely lift your mood.
Helps with Concentration
Another benefit of spearmint essential oil is that it helps with concentration as it promotes a feeling of vitality and gives you energy. Studies have shown that spearmint improves the attention span, concentration, and overall brain function of its users. So if you’re finding it increasingly difficult to concentrate after working or studying for long periods of time, instead of having another cup of coffee, try adding some spearmint essential oil to a diffuser of your choice to elevate your focus.
Promotes Oral Health
Spearmint is one of the key ingredients found in mouthwash and toothpaste as it promotes oral health by keeping your mouth clean and fresh. It’s important to take care of your oral health as poor oral health is connected to gum infections and even heart disease. In order to incorporate spearmint essential oil into your oral care routines to improve oral health, you can either add 3 drops of spearmint essential oil to 2 teaspoons of coconut oil as an alternative to alcohol-based mouthwash or add a drop to your toothbrush before brushing your teeth.
Promotes Skin Health
Spearmint is also great for healing wounds, cuts, and mosquito bites due to its antibacterial nature. It helps to kill any bacteria that may be growing on your skin, thus preventing further infections from occurring. It has anti-inflammatory properties that calm and soothe irritated and inflamed skin regardless of whether it’s due to an allergy or a skin condition like acne.
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