Final answer:
Peppermint oil may lower blood pressure and cholesterol, reducing the risk of heart disease, stroke, certain cancers, and diabetes. It also contains menthol for numbing irritated skin and antiseptic agents to prevent infection and reduce skin irritation.
Step-by-step explanation:
Peppermint oil is known for its versatile health benefits. One of the significant advantages is that it helps to lower blood pressure and cholesterol, which in turn can reduce the risk of heart disease and stroke. These outcomes align with recommendations by authoritative bodies such as the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute, and the American Heart Association.
In addition to cardiovascular benefits, peppermint oil may also reduce the risk of certain cancers and diabetes, contributing to its overall health-promoting profile. Moreover, peppermint oil contains menthol, which is prized for its cooling and soothing properties.
Menthol can numb irritated skin, making it a common ingredient in products designed to relieve skin irritation. Furthermore, peppermint oil often contains antiseptic agents like denatured alcohol or witch hazel, which prevent infection of cuts and act as an astringent to reduce skin irritation.