Used in spells relating to: Psychic Ability, Visions, Healing, Sleep, Love.

Peppermint - burn as incense during the Winter to purify the home, fill sachets or potpourri dishes with peppermint leaves.

Astrological planet: Mercury and Mars

    Mercury spells: Peppermint (as an herb or an essential oil) may be used in as an ingredient or substitute for magick spells and formulas related to Mercury matters (overcoming addiction, breaking bad habits, communication, divination, eloquence, intelligence, mental powers, psychic powers, self-improvement, study, travel, and wisdom). Be careful about substitutions for preparations that will be ingested or come in contact with the skin. These substitutions do not apply to medical uses.

    Mars spells: Peppermint (as an herb or an essential oil) may be used in as an ingredient or substitute for magick spells and formulas related to Mars matters (aggression, courage, defensive magick, exorcism, healing after surgery, hex-breaking, lust, physical strength, politics, protection, sexual energy, sexual potency, and strength). Be careful about substitutions for preparations that will be ingested or come in contact with the skin. These substitutions do not apply to medical uses.

    Using essential oils: Essential oils are just too concentrated and too expensve to use without dilution. If you purchase pure essential oil,  you will want to place just a drop or two into a neutral carrier vegetable oil or jojoba. This conservation is typical of the use of essential oils in spells and other magick. It is wise to test a bit of any essential oil on your inner wrist before use. If any irritation occurs, do not use the essential oil. Keep essential oils out of reach of children and pets and away from heat and light.

    Magickal substitutions: Rosemary may be safely substituted for any herb in magick spells and rituals. Roses may safely be substituted for any flower.

    Cautions and contraindications: Peppermint is believed to be safe.

    Wild gathering: Avoid wild gathering. Some plants are endangered species. Please grow your own herbs in your own garden (or window boxes).

Medicinal uses: gastric and digestive disorders, tension, insomnia

Peppermint is familiar because it is widely used as a flavoring in foods, beverages, and over-the-counter products. But this herb also is believed to possess some healing elements for several illnesses when used properly. Here's how this alternative medicine works:

Healing Properties

Most people have heard about the benefits of peppermint leaf tea for relief of an upset stomach. Peppermint's reputation is due in large part to its volatile oil compounds that relax the smooth muscles that line the digestive tract. When these muscle cells become overactive, they contribute to indigestion, dyspepsia, gallbladder disease, and irritable bowel syndrome (IBS).

Several clinical trials have also shown that peppermint essential oil, a super-concentrated form of the herb, can relieve irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) symptoms. If IBS symptoms persist despite peppermint use, seek a health care professional's help to be sure you don't have an ulcer or a more serious health problem.

Another series of research studies showed that menthol and closely related compounds from mint oils can actually dissolve gallstones; however, this may take many months to achieve. It is imperative to maintain a low-fat diet, lose weight, and exercise regularly to help the peppermint oil work best.

Preparation and Dosage

Peppermint leaf tea is an excellent and safe way to use peppermint for occasional indigestion, mild IBS, or early stages of gallbladder disease. Steep 1 to 2 teaspoons of the herb or two tea bags in 1 cup of hot water, covered, for 10 to 15 minutes. You should see a layer of oil on the top of the water when the tea is done. If you don't cover the tea while steeping, the oil -- and the medicinal benefits -- will escape into the air. Drink 1 cup of tea (with the oil) a few minutes before each meal.

As an alternative, you can take 1 to 3 drops of peppermint essential oil three times per day. The oil can be purchased in a bottle or in capsules. Place the drops directly under the tongue.

Another effective alternative is enteric-coated peppermint oil supplements. These deliver more of the essential oil to the intestines, where it is needed, and may help you avoid heartburn. Take 1 to 2 capsules (each of which should provide 0.2 mL menthol) three times per day.

Storage

Store dried peppermint leaf in an airtight container in a dark, dry, cool place to prolong its potency. Do the same for peppermint oil to prevent it from becoming oxidized and losing its effects.