Peppermint is a popular oil that is said to stimulate the mind to help support memory, focus, concentration, and mental performance. In one study on 24 participants, those who ingested a higher concentration of peppermint essential oil reported less mental fatigue after cognitively demanding tasks.
How does peppermint affect your brain?
The science: how essential oils help mental focus, clarity, and memory. A study in 1990 showed that smelling peppermint essential oil enhanced alertness, focus, and concentration. (It should be noted, later research showed that eating peppermint did not have the same effect as smelling it did in the previous study.)
What essential oil is good for the brain?
Other essential oils that claim to boost energy levels, mood, and focus
| Essential oil | Claimed benefits |
|---|---|
| bergamot | energizing |
| cinnamon | boosts energy |
| eucalyptus | stimulates the brain and improves energy |
| frankincense | balances the nervous system |
Is peppermint a brain stimulant?
However the mechanism of action is still unknown but it is hypothesized that the scents of peppermint can stimulate the areas of the brain responsible for alertness (e.g., brain’s reticular activating system) (Raudenbush, et al., 2009 ▶).
How does peppermint oil improve focus?
Peppermint oil has the ability to enhance such cognitive functions such as memory and concentration because it stimulates an area of the limbic system in the brain called the hippocampus—the part of the brain that is involved with the formation of new memories, as well as learning and emotions.
What scent is good for the brain?
The scent of cinnamon promotes alertness and a sense of purpose. It can also help combat mental fatigue, improve concentration and focus.
What smell is good for memory?
“Rosemary is known to stimulate the mind and the memory.” In research conducted at Northumbria University in the UK, inhaling rosemary essential oil improved both speed and accuracy on demanding mental tasks, and raised memory test scores by more than ten percent.
Is peppermint oil good for brain fog?
Peppermint is a popular oil that is said to stimulate the mind to help support memory, focus, concentration, and mental performance.
What essential oil is good for forgetfulness?
Bergamot
Forgetfulness is one of the most frustrating symptoms for someone with dementia. Bergamot is a go-to essential oil for dementia patients. It is known to help with memory as well as lessening agitation, anxiety, depression, and stress. This essential oil can also help relieve insomnia.
Who should not use peppermint oil?
People with a specific enzyme deficiency, called G6PD deficiency, should avoid using peppermint as an extract or oil in aromatherapy. People taking certain medications. Peppermint oil aromatherapy can inhibit an enzyme called CYP3A4, which is responsible for breaking down many types of medication.
What scent makes you smarter?
A new study suggests that the pungent and pine-like scent of rosemary oil may improve speed and accuracy when performing certain mental tasks.
Does peppermint help dementia?
Several essential oils are proving effective for treating symptoms of dementia including anxiety, sleep problems, and even memory and cognitive function. Some recent findings: Lavender and lemon balm reduce anxiety and agitation. Peppermint can stimulate the appetite and support memory.
Does peppermint oil make you sleepy?
Regarding peppermint essential oil, previous studies have confirmed its relaxing and sedative effects (Lisa Blackburn et al., 2017).
How long does peppermint oil take to work?
It will start to work within a few hours but it could take up to 1 to 2 weeks to take full effect. Keep taking peppermint oil until your symptoms improve. Common side effects include heartburn and indigestion.
Does peppermint oil have side effects?
Possible side effects of peppermint oil taken orally include heartburn, nausea, abdominal pain, and dry mouth. Rarely, peppermint oil can cause allergic reactions. Capsules containing peppermint oil are often enteric-coated to reduce the likelihood of heartburn.
What oil is best for anxiety?
Healthline’s picks for the best essential oils for anxiety
- Valerian. Valerian is an herb that has been used since ancient times.
- Jatamansi. Jatamansi is in the same plant family as valerian.
- Lavender. Lavender is one of the most popular aromatherapy oils.
- Jasmine.
- Holy basil.
- Sweet basil.
- Bergamot.
- Chamomile.
What smell is good for focus?
Peppermint. Try peppermint when brainstorming. An energy booster, this scent invigorates the mind, promotes concentration and stimulates clear thinking.
What scent is good for depression?
The following essential oils might be helpful:
- jasmine.
- sandalwood.
- ylang-ylang.
- clary sage.
- basil.
- bergamot.
- rose.
- geranium.
Elvira Bowen is a food expert who has dedicated her life to understanding the science of cooking. She has worked in some of the world’s most prestigious kitchens, and has published several cookbooks that have become bestsellers. Elvira is known for her creative approach to cuisine, and her passion for teaching others about the culinary arts.