The name peppermint is from the species name piperita meaning "peppery", which distinguishes peppermint from other forms of mint.  Peppermint has a long history of unique uses.  Aristotle referenced peppermint in his writings as an aphrodisiac.  Alexander the Great forbade his soldiers to have peppermint because it was thought to promote erotic thoughts and deplete soldiers of the desire to fight.  Arabs used peppermint in their social drinks as a virility stimulant, and Romans would spread peppermint on their floors to help get rid of pests.  

Peppermint has many modern uses worldwide.   Many think that peppermint is too intense for subtle dishes but it is commonly found in tea, chocolate,confections, bubble gum, jellies, and sauces.  It can also be added to chilled soups or rice on warm days to help cool down the body.  

The plant has been used medicinally as a tonic for preventing gas and relieving spasms, and other stomach ailments (try putting 1 - 2 drops of peppermint oil in a teaspoon of raw sugar).  It also has been used to assist in alleviating tension headaches (rub a few drops around the temples, either as is or diluted with a base carrier oil).  Today, the peppermint plant is commonly added to cough and cold remedies because of its high menthol content, which provides a sensation of coolness and easier breathing.  

The tobacco industry uses peppermint oil largely as a flavouring, and for its high concentration of menthol and cooling sensation.  Due to its unique fragrance,
peppermint is often found in soaps, detergents, creams, lotions, and perfumes. 

Pharmacological studies have been conducted to evaluate peppermint's possible effects on various gastrointestinal and neurological conditions such as
dyspepsia and tension headaches.  Peppermint is an aromatherapy agent for relieving nausea.  Peppermint's has antispasmodic (an agent that relieves spasms or cramps) and antidiarrheal effects on the human body.  

Peppermint Oil 12ml Bottle  Aud$5.00  Mem. $4.00

Peppermint Oil 100ml Bottle  Aud$16.00  Mem. 12.80