Description

**Description:** Organic peppermint essential oil is obtained from fresh or dried peppermint herb (*Mentha piperita*) through steam distillation. The yield of essential oil from the plant material ranges between 0.1 and 1%.

**Special Characteristics:** Organic peppermint essential oil is a colorless to yellow-green liquid. It has a strong, cool, and characteristic peppermint scent. The organic essential oil dissolves easily in alcohol (1:5 with 70% ethanol), vegetable oils, and other essential oils. It is almost insoluble in water. The main component is menthol. Other components such as menthyl acetate, menthofuran, pulegone, limonene, isomeric caryophyllene, and pinene isomers are present in lower concentrations.

**Cosmetic Applications:** Phytotherapy relies on the cleansing properties promised by organic peppermint essential oil. It is said to be highly effective in combating bacteria, viruses, and fungi and is thus used for infections such as herpes, minor wounds, and digestive problems. Organic peppermint essential oil can also alleviate nausea and vomiting. Its fresh aroma is also said to provide relief from headaches and soothes the debilitating effects of this pain. Inhalation helps to loosen stuck mucus in the nasal area.

In the cosmetics industry, organic peppermint essential oil is primarily used as an aromatic ingredient in skincare products, toothpaste, and soaps to enhance the feeling of cleanliness.

Aromatherapy also benefits from the pure, fresh aroma of organic peppermint essential oil as it dispels negative thoughts.

**Food Applications:** Organic peppermint essential oil can flavor sweets and alcoholic beverages.

**CAUTION: Always use diluted in a carrier oil or other solvent.**