Spearmint Essential Oil

BOTANICAL NAME: mentha spicata

ORIGIN: China, Europe, Mediterranean, North America, Russia

PARTS USED: flowering tops, leaves

DISTILLATION METHOD: steam

FRAGRANCE: fresh, minty, sweet

BLENDS WELL WITH: bergamot, birch, ginger, jasmine, lavender, sandalwood, basil, eucalyptus, rosemary.

AROMATIC BENEFITS: cooling, energizing, refreshing, revitalizing.

MAGICAL USES: comfort, healing, sleep (for protection).

PHYSICAL USES: ant repellent, antiseptic, colic, deodorant, diarrhea, emollient, flatulence, hemorrhoids, indigestion, morning sickness, moth repellent, mouse repellent, nausea, nervine, soothing agent, stomachaches.

Spearmint Information:

Essential Oil of Spearmint is extracted by steam distillation of the flowering tops of Spearmint plant. The main components of this oil are Alpha Pinene, Beta Pinene, Carvone, Cineole, Caryophyllene, Linalool, Limonene, Menthol, and Myrcene. Spearmint has been a substitute for peppermint and possesses similar medicinal properties, due to presence of similar compounds in its makeup.

Definitions:

Antiseptic: a substance that inhibits the growth and reproduction of microorganisms.

Antispasmodic: referring to something that suppresses spasms.

Carminative: relieves discomfort of gas in the digestive tract.

Cephalic: This oil has a relaxing and cooling effect on brain; it helps cure headaches and other stress related neuro-problems.

Disinfectant: a substance that kills germs and/or viruses.

Emmenagogue: stimulates blood flow in the pelvic area and uterus, causing menstruation.

Insecticide: It is an effective insecticide; keeps away mosquitoes, white ants, ants, flies, and moths.

Stimulant: increases physiological or nervous activity in the body.

Other Benefits: The Essential Oil of Spearmint helps cure asthma and congestion, being a decongestant; gives relief from fever, flatulence, constipation, sinusitis, acne, gum and teeth problems, migraine, stress and depression. Being far lower in menthol content, it can be safely given to children.

Safety Warning: No real threats, but being an emmenagogue, it should not be taken while pregnant. May irritate mucous membranes. Never ingest essential oils without a prescription. Use carrier oil when applying to skin.