Peppermint Oil

The United States is a principal producer of peppermint, and the largest markets for peppermint oil are manufacturers of chewing gum, toothpaste, mouthwash, and pharmaceuticals.

Synonyms - Uses based on tradition or theory - Balm mint, black peppermint, brandy mint, curled mint, Feullis de menthe, Japanese peppermint, Katzenkraut (German), lamb mint, Mentha arvensis L. var piperascens, menta prima (Italian), Menthae piperitae aetheroleum (peppermint oil) , Menthae piperita var officinalis, Menthae piperitae folium (peppermint leaf), Menthe anglaise , Menthe poivre , Menthe poivree , Mentha piperita var vulgaris, Our Lady's mint, pebermynte (Danish), Pfefferminz (German),

The below uses are based on tradition or scientific theories. They often have not been thoroughly tested in humans, and safety and effectiveness have not always been proven. Some of these conditions are potentially serious, and should be evaluated by a qualified healthcare provider.
Antacid, anorexia, antiviral, arthritis, asthma, bile duct disorders, bronchial spasm, cancer, chicken pox, cholelithiasis (gallstones), colonic spasm (during colonoscopy or barium enema), common cold, cough, cramps, dysmenorrhea (menstrual pain), enteritis, fever, fibromyositis, gallbladder disorders, gas (flatulence), gastrointestinal disorders, gastritis, gonorrhea, head lice (), ileus (post-operative), inflammation of oral mucosa, influenza, intestinal colic, laryngeal spasm, local anesthetic, morning sickness, motility disorders, mouthwash, musculoskeletal pain, myalgia (muscle pain), neuralgia (nerve pain), postherpetic neuralgia, pruritis (itching), rheumatic pain, sun block, tendonitis, toothache, tuberculosis, urticaria (hives). 

peppermint oil that is included in mouthwashes, toothpastes, mentholated cigarettes, and decongestant "rubs" or lozenges, has been associated with multiple adverse effects

It has been used extensively in eastern and Western medicine for a variety of complaints, including indigestion, nausea, sore throat, diarrhea, headaches, toothaches and cramps. It is current in the British Herbal Pharmacopocia for intestinal colic, flatulence, common cold, vomiting in pregnancy and dysmenorrhea. 

Many bacterial, fungal, and viral infections are destroyed by it and when inhaled or when a vapor balm is rubbed on the chest. It clears sinus and lung congestion.

Peppermint applied to the forehead and temples favorably reduce headache symptoms. 
Peppermint and its main active agent, menthol, are effective decongestants. As menthol thins mucus, it act as a good expectorant. It is also soothing and calming for sore throats and dry coughs. 
Peppermint help to relieve painful cramps as it relaxes muscles during menstrual periods in females. 
Peppermint relaxes the muscles during painful digestive gas. 
Peppermint improves the flow of bile helping in proper digestion of fats. 
The antiseptic and diaphoretic qualities of Mentha piperita make it valuable in the treatment of colds and flu. 
Mentha piperita's cooling properties reduce swelling and inflamation from bruises. 
To disguise the unpleasant taste of other medicines. 
Mints are used in many pain reliving creams for its anesthetic properties. 

USES :- IN FOOD, FLAVOUR, COSMETIC, PHARMACEUTICALS, TOBACCO AND PERFUME INDUSRTIES.

 

Physico Chemical Properties

 

Specification	Limit
Other Name	Mentha Pipereta Oil
Physical Appearance	Colourless,clear,pale yellow or greenish yellow Liquid
Odour/Flavour	A aromatic & minty odour,followed by a sensation of cold
Assay by GLC Limonene	1% to 5%
Cineol	3.5% to 14%
Menthone	14% to 32%
Menthofuran	1 - 9%
Iso-Menthone	1.5% to 10%
Menthyl Acetate	2.8% to 10%
I sopulegol	Maximum 0.2
Menthol	30% to 55%
Pulegone	Maximum 4%
Carvone	Maximum 1%
Specific Gravity	0.900 to 0.916
Refractive Index	1 .457 to 1,467
Optical Rotation	- 10 to -30

The ratio of Cineole content to Limonene content is minimum 2