Peppermint is one type of mint, but when referring merely to mint, the recommendation is often also to spearmint. Spearmint and peppermint oils are two types of essential oils that come from the exact same plant family. Essential oils are essences drawn from plants for their recovery properties. Both spearmint and peppermint are used as flavorings in candies and gum, and they have comparable health benefits. Talk to a licensed aromatherapist before using spearmint or peppermint oils.
Plants
Peppermint and spearmint both come from the Lamiaceae plant family. Peppermint is called Mentha piperita and spearmint is Mentha spicata. Peppermint was actually created through a combination of spearmint and water mint. Both types of mint contain menthol, which represents their comparable advantages.
Uses
Peppermint and spearmint have comparable advantages; although peppermint appears to be more effective, spearmint is more gentle. Both spearmint and peppermint are used to improve your state of mind, mental clearness and alertness, along with increase metabolism, fight insects and help you breathe better. One popular use is for the digestive system, as they appear to help gas, encourage digestion and hunger, reduce nausea and ease cramps and diarrhea. They both are reported to minimize pain and ease symptoms of colds. Nevertheless, more research is had to support these claims.
Application
Spearmint and peppermint oils are two of the couple of essential oils that can be consumed. This technique is generally used for digestive issues. Pick one kind of oil and put one drop in one cup of warm water with a small amount of honey. Mix this and drink it. Peppermint oil also is available in enteric-coated pills. For uses aside from gastrointestinal concerns, put one to two drops spearmint or peppermint oil in a diffuser or smell it straight from the bottle.
Precautions
Peppermint is a strong oil you must use in moderation. It can cause inflammation to the skin and the mucous membranes and can cause heartburn. Avoid this oil when you are pregnant or breastfeeding, and do not give it to a baby or small child. Prevent consuming peppermint if you have gallstones, GERD, a hiatal hernia or are taking stomach acid-reducing medications, medications for blood pressure or diabetes, or cyclosporine. Spearmint is weaker than peppermint and typically viewed as more secure, however it can cause allergic reactions. Likewise, if used in high dosages, it can cause skin rashes and heartburn.
