What is peppermint oil?

Peppermint oil is a concentrated essential oil distilled from the leaves of the peppermint plant, prized for its crisp scent and cooling, skin-soothing properties.[1][3]

  • Origin: Extracted from Mentha × piperita, a hybrid mint native to Europe and the Middle East, now grown worldwide.[4]
  • History: Used since ancient times in herbal medicine for digestive relief, pain soothing, and as a natural remedy for skin discomfort.[2][4]
  • Composition: Rich in menthol (35–45%), menthone, limonene, and other cooling, antimicrobial compounds.[1][5]
  • Why We Love It: Instantly cools, calms irritation, and helps keep feet feeling fresh, energized, and odor-free.[1][2][6]

What is peppermint oil made up of?

  • 35-45%
    Menthol
    → cooling relief
    Menthol provides a strong cooling sensation, soothes irritation, and helps relieve discomfort in tired feet.[5][11]
  • 15-25%
    Menthone
    → odour control
    Menthone supports menthol’s cooling effect and helps neutralise foot odour.[5][11]
  • 1-5%
    Limonene
    → natural fragrance
    Limonene adds a citrusy note and supports the oil’s cleansing properties.[5][11]
  • 3-8%
    1,8-Cineole
    → antimicrobial boost
    1,8-Cineole helps protect skin from microbes and supports overall skin health.[5][11]
  • 2-8%
    Isomenthone
    → skin comfort
    Isomenthone helps calm and refresh, reducing discomfort and promoting a sense of well-being.[5][11]
  • < 1%
    Pulegone
    → skin clarity
    Pulegone supports the oil’s cleansing and clarifying effects on skin.[5][11]

Ancient Remedy, Modern Refreshment

History of Peppermint Oil

Peppermint oil has been used for centuries in Europe, the Middle East, and Asia for its cooling, soothing, and invigorating effects. Traditionally valued for digestive and pain relief, it’s now a staple in modern skincare for its ability to refresh and comfort tired skin.[2][4][7]

cooling comfort, naturally

Why We Use It

We use peppermint oil for its fantastic ability to deliver instant cooling, reduce irritation, and fight odour. Its natural antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties make it ideal for active feet, helping to keep them comfortable and fresh.[1][2][6]

pure, sustainably sourced

Where We Get It

Our peppermint oil is steam-distilled from sustainably grown peppermint leaves, ensuring purity, potency, and environmental responsibility.[8][9]

safe for you and the planet

Why It Matters

Choosing peppermint oil means choosing a renewable, biodegradable ingredient that’s safe for your skin and the environment. It helps us create products that are effective, naturally fragrant, and free from harsh chemicals - so you can feel good about every rub.[1][9][10]

Peppermint Oil FAQs

Why do The Feats products include peppermint oil?

We use peppermint oil for its ability to keep feet cool, fresh, and protected - naturally supporting active lifestyles.[1][6]

What does peppermint oil do for my skin?

Peppermint oil cools, soothes, and deodorises skin with its natural antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties, helping keep feet fresh and comfortable.[1][2][6]

Is peppermint oil safe for sensitive skin?

Yes, when used in proper concentrations, peppermint oil is gentle and effective for most skin types, including sensitive skin.[1][2]

How is your peppermint oil sourced?

Our peppermint oil is steam-distilled from sustainably grown peppermint leaves, ensuring purity and environmental responsibility.[8][9]

Does peppermint oil have a strong scent in your products?

Peppermint oil provides a crisp, minty aroma that’s balanced with other natural ingredients for a pleasant, non-overpowering fragrance.[1][5]

Scientific sources

  1. Healthline: https://www.healthline.com/health/peppermint-oil-for-skin
  2. Medical News Today: https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/peppermint-oil
  3. Encyclopedia Britannica: https://www.britannica.com/plant/peppermint
  4. Encyclopedia Britannica: https://www.britannica.com/plant/peppermint
  5. PubChem (NIH): https://pubchem.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/compound/Peppermint-oil
  6. WebMD: https://www.webmd.com/vitamins/ai/ingredientmono-705/peppermint
  7. Lawrence, B. M. (2007). "Mint: The Genus Mentha." CRC Press.
  8. Supplier transparency reports
  9. Ethical Consumer: https://www.ethicalconsumer.org/health-beauty/shopping-guide/essential-oils
  10. Environmental Working Group (EWG): https://www.ewg.org/skindeep/ingredients/702028-PEPPERMINT-OIL/
  11. McKay, D. L., & Blumberg, J. B. (2006). "A review of the bioactivity and potential health benefits of peppermint tea (Mentha piperita L.)." Phytotherapy Research, 20(8), 619-633. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/16767798/

Key Scientific Papers Supporting Peppermint Oil Use

  • McKay, D. L., & Blumberg, J. B. (2006). "A review of the bioactivity and potential health benefits of peppermint tea (Mentha piperita L.)." Phytotherapy Research, 20(8), 619-633. Reviews the chemical composition and health benefits of peppermint, including its cooling, soothing, and antimicrobial effects. Link
  • Lawrence, B. M. (2007). "Mint: The Genus Mentha." CRC Press.
    Comprehensive reference on the chemistry, traditional uses, and modern applications of peppermint oil. Link
  • PubChem (NIH): Peppermint Oil Compound Summary. Provides a detailed breakdown of peppermint oil’s chemical constituents and their biological activities. Link
  • Kamatou, G. P., et al. (2013). "Menthol: A simple monoterpene with remarkable biological properties." Phytochemistry, 96, 15-25. Explores the biological activities of menthol, the main component of peppermint oil, including its cooling and soothing effects on skin. Link

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