Description
The Essential Oil of Spearmint is extracted by steam distillation of flowering tops of the mentha spicata plant. It is a native of the Mediterranean area, and is a hardy perennial herb that reaches about 3 feet in height.
The ancient Greeks used it to scent their bath water and for sexually transmitted diseases. During medieval times it was used to heal sore gums.
Spearmint does not contain high amounts of menthol like peppermint and is far gentler in its use. It doesn’t have the iciness of peppermint. It is calming, warming and gently uplifting, rather than strongly cooling and stimulating.
This essential oil works on the digestive system and relieves constipation, vomiting, nausea and flatulence.
It also benefits the respiratory tract to relieve cough and bronchitis, colds, nasal congestion, asthma and flu.
It stimulates nerves and brain function, as well as blood circulation.
On the skin it calms itching.
Due to its anti-microbial properties, it can help treat internal infections and wounds in the stomach and intestines.
Caution: Using it topically without any carrier oil may cause skin irritations, burning, and even photosensitivity. Overexposure to essential oils due to inhalation can induce headaches, skin irritations, nausea and lightheadedness. Pregnant women should avoid Spearmint as it can increase the risk of miscarriage.
