Shhh...Let's Talk Bathroom Smells

Shhh...Let's Talk Bathroom Smells

It's something no one wants to talk about.  Smelly bathroom trips.  But you don't have to load yourself down with sprays and drops to save you from embarrassment every time you hit the loo.  There's a simple fix with a very common herb.  The other day I was discussing Peppermint with a fellow gardener.  He was complaining that peppermint had over-taken his whole garden.  Even though he had planted it in a big pot, apparently a strand of peppermint had snuck down the back of the pot and secretly went rogue into his garden, spreading with abandon.  And once peppermint spreads, it is almost impossible to contain.

I can relate.  I have my own peppermint stories battling space in my gardens.  So much so, that I eventually just planted it along my fencerow and let it go there.  Yet, as aggravating as it can be, Peppermint is so very useful as a home health aide, as well as a delicious tea or addition to foods and desserts.  What can it do?  Well, what can't it do?  Something that not many people know, first and foremost, is that if you get into the habit of drinking a cup of peppermint tea every evening, it can banish bathroom smells by making your poop smell better.  The menthol in peppermint has natural deodorizing properties.  Not only that, but it is so very helpful for digestion.  It can reduce gas, help foods digest, make you become more regular and much more.

Peppermint can be used to banish motion sickness, nausea and headaches; migraines, tension and sinus headaches all.  Another thing is that it can help with concentration and cognitive functions while giving you a boost of energy.

How Peppermint Helps with Concentration
Boosts Memory & Focus – Studies suggest that the aroma of peppermint can improve memory recall and retention.

Increases Alertness – The menthol in peppermint stimulates the brain, helping to increase focus and attention.

Reduces Mental Fatigue – Peppermint can restore mental vitality, making it easier to stay engaged in tasks.

Enhances Mood & Reduces Stress – Its calming properties help alleviate anxiety, which can improve concentration.

Improves Blood Flow – Peppermint increases circulation, which may help deliver oxygen to the brain for better cognitive function.

Ways to Use Peppermint for Concentration
Peppermint Tea – Drinking peppermint tea can provide a refreshing mental boost.

Essential Oil Diffusion – Diffusing peppermint oil in your workspace can help maintain focus.

Topical Application – Applying diluted peppermint oil to temples or wrists can provide an invigorating effect.

Inhalation – Simply smelling peppermint oil before studying or working can enhance cognitive performance.

In addition, Peppermint has antiviral and antimicrobial properties that can be used to fight infections, flu or respiratory infections. Studies have shown that peppermint is effective against bacteria like E. coli, H. pylori, and MRSA, as well as viruses like influenza and herpes.  There are easy ways to use Peppermint as a home remedy.  Here are just a few ideas:

Natural Disinfectant Spray – Mixing peppermint oil with water and vinegar creates a natural antimicrobial cleaning spray.

Pour 8 oz of water into a clean spray bottle.

Add 8 oz of rubbing alcohol to the bottle.

Drop in 20 drops of peppermint essential oil.

Shake well before each use.

Spray on surfaces and wipe clean with a cloth.

This peppermint spray not only disinfects but also leaves a refreshing scent in your home!

Mouthwash – Peppermint oil can be added to water for a natural antibacterial mouth rinse. 

Pour ½ cup of warm distilled water into a bottle.

Dissolve 2 teaspoons baking soda and ½ teaspoon sea salt in the water.

Add 2 drops peppermint essential oil and 2 drops tea tree essential oil.

Close the bottle tightly and shake well to combine.

Use as your usual mouthwash—swish in your mouth for 30 seconds and spit.

This recipe helps freshen breath, kill bacteria.

Skin Application – Peppermint oil can be used to treat bacterial skin infections when diluted properly.  Here's a recipe from The Lost Herbs for a skin healing and pain-relieving salve:  How To Make A Pain Healing Mint Salve - The Lost Herbs

Hand Sanitizer – Adding peppermint oil to homemade hand sanitizers enhances their antimicrobial effects.  You can also make your own hand sanitizer with it.  Here's an easy 3-ingredient recipe:  

Peppermint Hand Sanitizer - Makes 4 ounces

3 ounces ethyl alcohol 90%+ (180+ proof) or 91%+ isopropyl (rubbing) alcohol

1 ounce aloe witch haze

40 drops Peppermint essential oil

Put in a clean spray bottle to hold 4 ounces. Shake to mix every time you spray.  This is a convenient size to keep for on the go, or at the kitchen sink.

*Important notes:  Always dilute Peppermint essential oil with a carrier oil before applying to the skin, especially for elderly or children who may be especially sensitive.  Do not diffuse pure Peppermint oil into the air near infants and children as it can cause adverse reactions and consult a healthcare professional before using Peppermint essential oil if you have any allergies.