Japanese Peppermint
Common Name: Japanese Peppermint
Botanical Name: Menthol arvensis
Synonyms: Cornmint, hakka
Family: Lamiaceae (Labiatae)
Chemical Composition includes:
Menthol 70 – 95%
Precautions / Contraindications:
Japanese Peppermint is considered more toxic than peppermint oil due to its pulegone content.
Menthol vapours can inhibit respiration particularly in young children. While it is a low risk, it is not recommended to use Peppermint or any oil high in menthol around infants and young children.
Avoid for those with cardiac fibrillation or have a G6PD deficiency. A genetic deficiency often found in those of Chinese, West African, Mediterranean or Middle Eastern ancestry causing abnormal reactions to drugs such as antimalarial, sulfonamides, chloramphenicol, streptomycin and asprin.
Peppermint oil is non-toxic, non-irritant and may be sensitizing to some.
As with all essential oils, taking internally, ingesting or adding to food / beverages is not recommended and can cause harm.
Keep all essential oils out of the reach of children, lids secured in a cool dark location.
Actions commonly cited in aromatherapy:
Analgesic
Antidepressant
Antineuralgic
Antiphlogistic
Antiseptic
Antispasmodic
Astringent
Carminative
Cephalic
Cholagogue
Cordial
Decongestant
Digestive
Emmenagogue
Expectorant
Febrifuge
Hepatic
Nervine
Stimulant for the nervous system
Stomachic
Sudorific
Vasoconstrictor
Vermifuge
Analgesic – muscle pain, bruises, joint pain, insect bites, migraine headaches
Digestive – soothes dyspepsia, nausea, vomiting, stomach pain, diarrhea, flatulence. Can be helpful for bile duct obstructions, gall bladder inflammation and liver damage. Enhances production of bile, can decrease spasms in the abdominal area, distention / bloating and associated pain.
Lymphatic system – clears blood and lymphatic fluids of guck, liberates.
Respiratory System – may be beneficial for fevers, headaches associated with colds, flu, respiratory symptoms, sinus congestion, infections and inflammation.
The actions cited within this profile are not guaranteed in every situation; they are examples of what we can expect from each oil. They are based on scientific analysis of each oils unique chemical composition and knowledge of the expected actions of those components, lab & clinical studies, historical & traditional uses, and firsthand & anecdotal experiences.
Not sure what something means – check the Glossary here.
Please reach out if you want to better understand how essential oils work, have any questions or see how they may be right for you.
Mental & Emotional Actions commonly cited in aromatherapy
Promotes motivation, self confidence, alertness, refreshens increasing self esteem & self confidence and overall distressed feelings. Good for increased concentration, mental fatigue and memory lapses.
Actions supported by clinical studies
Analgesic
Antifungal
Antineuralgic
Antibacterial
Antiviral
Carminative
Cholagogue
Digestive
Stimulant
Stomachic
There is well established data to support peppermint’s role in relieving digestive complaints such as minor spasms of the GI tract, flatulence, and abdominal pain due to bloating. Topically, peppermint is confirmed to be effective on mild tension headaches.
Energetics / Chakra: Peppermint is cooling and drying, activated Qi and strengthens Shen. Helps balance middle heater and Stomach Qi – good for indigestion, appetite loss, epigastric bloating, distension and abdominal pain.
Can act on the ego, dispelling pride, overcome feelings of inferiority. Associated with cleanliness, living in an ethical manner. Enhances concentration, creativity, being open & receptive within our mental and spiritual levels, good for those in need of inspiration and insight.
Promotes healthy self confidence, self esteem, integrity, ethics, associated with the sacral chakra. Promotes clarity of communication in balance with the throat chakra. Can work to strength our 3rd eye by stimulating the conscious mind and promoting inspiration and insight.
Can stimulate our dream time, increase sensitivity, awareness, and perception of our dreams.
Personality / Myers Briggs:
Difficult personality to forget, may be brash and overpowering, have a fearless spirit, swift, quick thinkers. Can be friendly, concerned about the fate of others, dedicated to the work they take on.
Been described as good speakers with quick intellect, enjoy work that is both physical and mentally challenging, call for mental agility and physical stamina.
Likely to be an ENTJ – dynamic, energetic, confident, competent, naturally a take charge person, like and respect those who challenge them. Have a plan for improvement of all things, like to set goals, see obstacles as challenges. Often competitively driven, workaholics. Can be very honest, direct and will not hesitate to express themselves.
When stressed, can have explosive outbursts, and / or be judgemental of themselves and others.
Aromatic Note: Top
Oil & Aromatic Description: Pale yellow to almost colorless with a strong, fresh somewhat bittersweet aroma, similar to peppermint with a harsh, woody undertone and bitter, herbaceous dryout note.
Blends well with:
For digestive complaints try aniseed, caraway seed, ginger, sweet orange or spearmint.
For respiratory congestion blend with eucalyptus, fir, pine or spruce
For mental fatigue blend with basil, black pepper, ginger, lemon, pine or rosemary
Not sure what something means – check the Glossary here
Method of Extraction: Steam Distilled
Parts Used: partially dried leaves
Country of Origin: India
Please reach out if you want to better understand how essential oils work, have any questions or see how they may be right for you.
As a Trained Aromatherapist, the services, recommendations and products offered by Robson Valley Aromatherapy are that of a complementary nature only and in no way replace medical advice or treatment of any other modality. I do not provide diagnostic services, make any curative claims, or prescribe medications. Clients are provided with information on how & why recommendations are made, appropriate methods of using essential oils, and encouraged to make educated decisions on the safe & effective use of essential oils. I do not recommend or support the use of essential oils internally.
References:
Salvatore Battaglia – The Complete Guide to Aromatherapy – Volume 1 – Third edition
Robert Tisserand, Rodney Young – Essential Oil Safety – Second Edition