A cross between spearmint and watermint, peppermint is widely known for its therapeutic benefits. It contains menthol, menthone, and methyl esters which are responsible for its refreshing aroma. It has a plethora of uses in the cosmetic and food industries worldwide.
Its essential oil is one of the bestselling healing oil which has several scientifically proven uses for human consumption. Commonly used for relieving indigestion, clearing nasal congestion and managing stress, recent studies have shed light on how peppermint oil can be used to help weight-watchers. Here are 5 ways peppermint oil can curb cravings and help you lose weight.
1. Keeps Your Appetite Under Control
A study conducted among participants who inhaled peppermint oil every 2 hours for 5 days revealed that their hunger levels considerably reduced. In addition to their low appetite, inhalation of peppermint oil also has the ability to curb the tendency to indulge in unnecessary snacking. That’s the reason why it can benefit you if you are trying to lose weight via diet control.1
2. Boosts Your Energy Levels While Dieting
If you’ve ever been on a low-calorie diet, you would know that cravings and fatigue are most intense in the first two weeks. This is because you are cutting back on carbs and your body is transitioning to work on a reduced amount of calories. Whenever you experience these symptoms, the best thing to do is inhale peppermint oil.
The sweet aroma will quickly re-energize you and even improve your mental clarity so that you don’t feel drowsy all day long.
3. Enhances The Efficiency Of Exercise
A study conducted among twelve healthy males who drank a half a liter of mineral water infused with 0.05ml of peppermint essential oil for 10 days in a row made some important findings. It was proved that peppermint oil indeed has the ability to relax blood vessels, increase blood flow to tissues and improve muscle functioning during physical activity.
This is the reason why you should include peppermint oil in your hydration routine to get the most out of your fitness regime. Following a regulated diet and exercising efficiently are the two major factors in any weight-loss journey.2
4. Improves Digestion And Relieves Bloating
For ages, the leaves and essential oil of peppermint have been used as home remedies for indigestion. Researchers have found that its ability to stimulate bile flow, relax muscles of the stomach and intestines can promote the digestion of fats.
This normalizes bowel movements and prevents intestinal gases from getting trapped. If you are eating a lot of high-fiber foods as a part of your diet, sipping some peppermint tea after meals can prevent bloating and help food get digested faster.3
5. Helps You Overcome Sugar Addiction
Addiction to sugar is a real health issue. It’s mildly put by many as “having a sweet tooth” but it’s more serious than that. There’s compelling scientific evidence to prove that an unhealthy association to junk and sugary foods can lead to type 2 diabetes, obesity and other metabolic diseases.4
Peppermint oil is a natural way to overcome sugar addiction. All you need to do is inhale it and you are less likelier to give in to your temptations. This will help you stay focussed enough to stick to your diet and achieve your weight-loss goals in the long run.
Ways To Use Peppermint Essential Oil
Following are the ways in which you can use peppermint essential oil:
- Add 3–5 drops to a diffuser and inhale its fragrant vapors.
- Mix a drop of the essential oil with a drop of coconut oil. Apply this mixture on the inside of your wrists and temples.
Unless you are supervised by a certified herbalist or an aromatherapist, refrain from ingesting peppermint oil in any form for the sake of your safety.
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