The Benefits of Peppermint Oil and What to Use It For

Peppermint oil is derived from the peppermint plant (Mentha piperita). It is an essential oil known for its invigorating fragrance and cooling sensation. While many people are familiar with its common uses in beauty and personal care products, there are numerous lesser-known benefits that make peppermint oil an invaluable addition to your daily routine.

Why Use Peppermint Oil?

Peppermint oil is celebrated for its anti-inflammatory, pain-relieving, and antimicrobial properties. Its active component, menthol, interacts with the body in several beneficial ways, making it useful for a variety of conditions and symptoms. Here are some of the specific benefits peppermint oil has to offer:

Promotes Hair Health

Peppermint oil can invigorate your scalp and promote hair growth. A 2014 study found that mice treated with a 3% peppermint essential oil solution experienced similar hair growth results to those treated with minoxidil, a common hair growth product. The oil’s stimulating effect on blood circulation within the scalp can encourage healthier, faster hair growth.

Use in Shampoo and Conditioner: Add a few drops of peppermint oil to your shampoo and conditioner to stimulate your scalp and boost hair growth. For an easy solution, try Parrotfish’s Peppermint Shampoo and Peppermint Conditioner, which are formulated to provide these benefits.

Relieves Pain

Peppermint oil’s menthol content provides effective pain relief. A 2010 study found that applying a menthol solution to the forehead and temples relieved migraine pain, reduced nausea, and decreased sensitivity to light.

Reduces Inflammation

With its anti-inflammatory properties, peppermint oil can help soothe various inflammatory conditions. This makes it a useful remedy for issues ranging from muscle aches to arthritis.

Eases IBS Symptoms

Peppermint oil has shown promise in alleviating symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). A 2019 review concluded that enteric-coated peppermint oil capsules were safe and effective in reducing IBS symptoms like abdominal pain, constipation, and diarrhea.

Fights Bacteria

Research has demonstrated peppermint oil’s potent antibacterial and anti-fungal properties. It has been effective against strains of Staphylococcus aureus, including MRSA, which are resistant to antibiotics. This makes peppermint oil a powerful ally in combating bacterial infections.

Soothes Nausea

Peppermint oil is effective in reducing nausea. A 2016 study showed that cardiac surgery patients who used a peppermint oil nasal inhaler experienced a significant reduction in postoperative nausea. The aroma of peppermint oil can also help alleviate nausea in other situations.

Controls Appetite

The scent of peppermint oil can help curb cravings and promote a feeling of fullness. Keeping a bottle nearby can help manage afternoon junk food cravings.

Relieves Motion Sickness

Peppermint oil is excellent for settling an upset stomach caused by motion sickness. Rubbing a few drops on your stomach can ease discomfort after a bumpy plane ride or roller coaster.

Treats Tummy Troubles

For indigestion or an upset stomach, rubbing a few drops of peppermint oil on your abdomen can provide quick relief. This makes it a handy travel companion.

Cools Tired Feet

After a long day on your feet, peppermint oil can provide soothing relief. Add a few drops to a foot bath or a bucket of cold water and soak your feet to experience its cooling effects.

Stimulates the Scalp

Peppermint oil can energize and cleanse your scalp. Add a few drops to your shampoo and conditioner to stimulate your scalp and give your hair a refreshing boost of natural energy.

Is it OK to sleep with peppermint oil?

Yes, it's generally okay to sleep with peppermint oil. While not a traditional sleep aid, peppermint oil promotes restfulness by clearing your head, both figuratively and literally. Its invigorating scent can help you relax and breathe easier, enhancing your overall sleep quality.

Is breathing in peppermint oil good for you?

Yes, breathing in peppermint oil can be beneficial. The menthol in peppermint acts as a decongestant, shrinking swollen nasal membranes and easing breathing. It also helps loosen mucus in the lungs. Additionally, peppermint may help prevent the onset of sickness by supporting respiratory health.

What should you not use peppermint oil for?

Avoid applying peppermint oil to the face of infants or small children, as it can cause breathing difficulties. It may worsen gallstones and, in large doses, can be toxic. Pure menthol, found in peppermint oil, is poisonous and should never be ingested.


Peppermint oil is a versatile and powerful essential oil that offers numerous benefits beyond its well-known uses. From promoting hair growth and easing IBS symptoms to relieving pain and fighting bacteria, this remarkable oil can enhance your health and well-being in many ways. Incorporate peppermint oil into your routine and discover its myriad advantages for yourself.

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Discover Key Ingredients

  • peppermint essential oil

    Creates a fresh smell and tingly sensation on the skin and scalp, helping to improve blood flow.

  • coconut oil

    Derived from coconuts, and milder than Sodium Lauryl Sulfate, while still producing a sudsy lather. It is safe for colored hair and helps the transition period from liquid to bar seamless.

  • sodium coco sulfate

    Derived from coconuts, and milder than Sodium Lauryl Sulfate, while still producing a sudsy lather. It is safe for colored hair and helps the transition period from liquid to bar seamless.

  • behentrimonium methosulfate

    Made from rapeseed oil, it is non-irritating and used to soften the hair and reduce static and frizz without causing build-up.

Read Press Coverage

  • "Parrotfish's Argan Shampoo Bar wins the spot for best shampoo bar due to its ability to hydrate and heal several hair types."

  • "Parrotfish's cocoa butter and coconut-based shampoo bars are rich with argan oil or peppermint to cleanse hair and feed it essential minerals to keep locks healthy."

  • "Parrotfish shampoo bars convinced me to ditch my plastic shampoo and conditioner, and I’m never looking back."

Customer Reviews

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Naomi H.
Actually Works!

This is the only purple Shampoo I have tried that’s actually able to lighten my hair! I have thick hair in a darker blonde color, and normally after using purple shampoo it looks the same as before. With this one, my hair stylist noticed my hair was lighter, and I didn’t even bring it up! And yes, I follow instructions!

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Mary

argan oil shampoo and conditioner

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Susan T.
Good product

I purchased the purple shampoo and conditioner bars & am very pleased with the results. It has definitely toned down the yellowing of my gray hair and does not dry my hair out. I will be ordering again for sure.

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JENNIFER B.

purple shampoo and conditioner

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Dorothy C.
Great product

I color my hair and have tried many products that deal with toning down the orange, but nothing has worked as well as the purple bars for shampoo and conditioner. My hair has never looked or felt better. I love this product.