My grandma’s remedies: Peppermint Oil

The column where Melonie Clarke shares her grandmother’s health wisdom
Other than being minty fresh, peppermint oil is one of the world’s oldest medicines. A couple of drops in water, drunk after a meal, can help prevent indigestion and ease gas. It can also relieve nausea and motion sickness and can fi ght headaches when applied to the forehead. New studies also show it may help to ease irritable bowel syndrome, by relaxing the muscles in your bowels.

High in methanol, it is also used in many cold rubs as it helps to clear the respiratory tract, providing relief if you are suffering from a cold.

Toothpaste is minty for a reason; the oil removes bad breath and helps to fi ght germs as well as being thought to help soothe toothache.

Peppermint oil is also great for haircare as it removes dandruff and head lice. It is used in lots of products, as well as being sold in capsule and tablet form.