Peppermint Oil for Migraine Headaches

A migraine headache is caused by vaso-dilatation (enlargement of blood vessels) that causes the release of chemicals from nerve fibers that coil around the large arteries of the brain. Enlargement of these blood vessels stretches the nerves that coil around them and causes the nerves to release chemicals. The chemicals cause inflammation, pain, and further enlargement of the artery. The increasing enlargement of the arteries magnifies the pain.

Triggers that may cause migraines, include sensitivities to foods or environment, stress and tension, and chemical imbalances in the body-regardless of the trigger, the physiological reaction is the same. Although there are heavy duty medications to treat migraines, they do come with significant side effects; severe drowsiness, nausea, constipation and so on.

Peppermint essential oil has vaso-dilating and vaso-constricting properties which means it can help correct poor blood flow in the body. It also, opens the sinuses, increasing oxygen supply to the bloodstream. Peppermint essential oil, also has a cooling/numbing effect that helps to reduce pain. In conjunction with Frankincense, the therapeutic benefits increase significantly (frankincense is an anti-inflammatory).

Ways to use Peppermint essential oil for Migraines:

• Place a few drops along with a carrier oil (such as fractionated coconut oil) in the palms of your hand and rub together. Smell the oil to open your sinuses, then rub on the nape of your neck up toward the skull.
• Rub 1-2 drops of peppermint oil on the soles of each foot (the pores here are the largest, therefore the oil is absorbed into the bloodstream within 30 seconds)
• Add 1 drop of peppermint oil to hot tea and drink
• Rub 1 drop of peppermint oil to the forehead/temples (being careful not to get in the eyes)

If you don’t have a diffuser, here’s an easy alternative to use Peppermint oil aromatically: Heat water in a coffee mug to create a steam vapor. Add 2 drops of peppermint oil, then close eyes and hold mug under your nose while cupping your hands around the top of the mug to funnel the vapors more directly toward your face (this is great for sinus headaches especially).

Other uses for peppermint oil:

• Nausea control
• Fever control
• Aches & Pains

These steps can be done several times throughout the day without harmful side effects. The only people not recommended to use peppermint oil are children under 1 year old.