What is peppermint extract used for?
peppermint extract is commonly used in cooking, as a dietary supplement, as an herbal or alternative medicine, as a pest repellent, and a flavor or fragrance agent for cleaning products, cosmetics, mouthwash, chewing gum, and candies. For whatever reason, rodents, in particular, hate the smell of peppermint oil. Fortunately, most people like it, so it’s a great thing to try. Simply put some of the drops on cotton balls and put them in areas where you know the critters frequent.For decades, peppermint oil has served as a potent insect repellent and research has confirmed this fact. When used around entry points in the home and applied via sachets near doors and windows or diffuser or spray, it can help repel ticks, spiders, roaches, moths, flies, fleas, beetles and ants.
Is peppermint extract safe?
Peppermint oil capsules are enteric-coated so the oil is released in the small intestine, which lessens the possibility of heartburn. Swallowing large amounts of peppermint oil may cause difficulty with balance and walking, confusion, and coma. The dose at which peppermint oil becomes toxic has not been determined. Peppermint can cause some side effects including heartburn, dry mouth, nausea, and vomiting. When applied to the skin: Peppermint oil is likely safe. When given as an enema (rectally): Peppermint oil is likely safe. When inhaled: Peppermint oil is possibly safe when used as part of aromatherapy.People who have gastroesophageal reflux disease, or GERD, might want to be careful, though, because peppermint can relax the sphincter between the esophagus and stomach, which can lead to heartburn. Overall, Velayutham said, peppermint might not be magic, but it is safe for most people.Today, peppermint is promoted for irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), indigestion, headaches, muscle tension, nausea, and other conditions.Peppermint Extract is best known for its ability to help calm and relieve stress. Aromatherapy benefits make any Peppermint-infused product a pleasure to use—especially after a long, trying day. Peppermint also boasts revitalizing properties that helps give skin a pick-me-up.
What can I use instead of peppermint extract?
If you can’t find peppermint extract, there are a few substitutions that work just as well. For 1 teaspoon peppermint extract, substitute: 1/4 teaspoon peppermint oil (make sure it is edible) 1 tablespoon peppermint schnapps. When peppermint extract isn’t available, substitutes like spearmint extract, wintergreen, or peppermint oil diluted properly can replicate that minty brightness. Each alternative has unique flavor intensities, so adjusting quantities carefully ensures balanced taste.Peppermint extract is a stronger flavor than other baking flavorings like vanilla extract or almond extract, so start small by substituting half or a quarter amount of the extract called for in the recipe.
What does peppermint do to your body?
Peppermint is well-known for its ability to ease gas, bloating and indigestion. Peppermint helps relax the muscles in your stomach, which in turn reduces discomfort,” says Cassandra Neal, RDN, a registered dietitian with Hartford HealthCare Medical Group in Glastonbury. Some studies suggest that the scent of peppermint can improve focus, memory and alertness. We still need more research in this area, but some studies have found that the presence of menthol in peppermint can stimulate brain function,” says Neal.Studies show that peppermint oil can improve the way your brain functions and boost your mood, which can translate into more restful sleep and fewer disturbances. It also has purifying effects that can help to clear the sinuses and make breathing easier.Peppermint helps relax the muscles in your stomach, which in turn reduces discomfort,” says Cassandra Neal, RDN, a registered dietitian with Hartford HealthCare Medical Group in Glastonbury. It’s also known to stimulate bile flow, which helps to break down fats.The author speculates that the spirometric effects of peppermint oil may be attributed to bronchial smooth muscle tonicity instead of effects on the lung. Peppermint oil also significantly decreased heart rate and BP in the subjects, which are generally not associated with stimulant effects.