Obtained from a flowering plant known as “wild mint” is an essential oil known as Mentha Arvensis Oil. This essential oil is extracted from a plant belonging to the “Mentha Arvensis” species in the plant kingdom. Furthermore, this oil is extracted using the process of “steam distillation”. In addition, this oil consists of a strong odour, and is clear/pale yellow in colour. In terms of consistency, this oil is extremely thin.
A. Chemical constituents of Mentha Arvensis Oil:
This oil is extracted from a plant called “wild mint” belonging to the “Mentha Arvensis” species in the plant kingdom. In addition, this oil comprises of organic compounds such as menthol, menthone, isomenthone, neomenthol, limonene, methyl acetate, piperitone, beta-caryophylline, alpha-pinene, beta-pinene, tannins, and flavonoids.
B. The uses and benefits of Mentha Arvensis Oil:
There are number of benefits that an individual can obtain by using this essential oil. However, one should also consider the adverse reactions or side effects reported from its use:
1. Analgesic:
This oil possesses an “analgesic” property and so when used it helps in relieving pain caused by conditions such as headaches, sprains etc.
2. Antispasmodic:
This oil when used helps in relieving spasms affecting the digestive system, respiratory system, central nervous system etc, and thereby serves as an antispasmodic.
3. Carminative:
This oil helps resolving issues related to gas formation i.e. flatulence in the gastrointestinal tract, and thereby serves as a carminative.
4. Expectorant:
By enabling the expulsion of mucous and phlegm stored in the respiratory system out of the body, this oil serves as an expectorant.
5. Astringent:
This oil when used enables the contraction of skin cells and other body tissues, and thereby serves as an astringent.
C. The adverse effects of the Mentha Arvensis Oil:
There are a couple of adverse effects that one could experience on using this oil. They are as follows:
- The use of oil could lead to skin irritation especially in those individuals who have sensitive skin.
The usage of this oil can also be severely harmful to pregnancy, hence pregnant women must avoid using it.
