Peppermint is a hybrid species resulting from the crossbreeding of spearmint and watermint. In beauty care, it is particularly favoured for its purifying and astringent action, which helps to refine the skin's texture. Used as an essential oil or floral water (hydrosol), this plant is also an effective solution for combating the sensation of heavy legs, which can prove to be a daily hindrance.
Peppermint: a solution for relieving heavy legs.
Summary
Published on October 4, 2024, by Maylis, Chemical Engineer — 4 min of reading
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How is the sensation of heavy legs explained?
The sensation of heavy legs affects approximately 18 to 22 million people in France.
This tension in the lower limbs is linked to a stagnation of blood circulation in certain areas and a dilation of the veins. Unlike arteries, the walls of veins lack muscle fibres. Therefore, they require assistance to counteract gravity and return the blood to the heart. The pressure from the soles of the feet and the contraction of the calf muscles facilitate this return. However, when the veins are less elastic or the valves (an anti-gravity system that prevents the blood from flowing backwards) function less effectively, this results in poor blood circulation. In other words, blood flow slows down and venous return is less efficient.
The sensation of heavy legs can sometimes be accompanied by cramps, tingling, or oedema. This condition can eventually lead to the formation of varicose veins. Several factors can contribute to this phenomenon.
Internal causes: heredity, overweight, obesity, ageing, hormonal imbalance (pregnancy, menstruation, menopause);
External causes: heat, prolonged sitting, standing or lying down positions, sedentary lifestyle.
Due to its various properties, peppermint helps to combat this uncomfortable and bothersome sensation.
Peppermint to combat Restless Legs Syndrome.
In skincare, peppermint is utilised in the form ofessential oil (I.N.C.I.: Mentha Piperita Leaf Oil),hydrosol (I.N.C.I.: Mentha Piperita Flower/Leaf/Stem Water) andoil macerate (I.N.C.I.: Mentha Piperita Leaf Extract). However, it is the essential oil that has shown the most benefits in combating the sensation of heavy legs.
Indeed, this substance contains several elements that promote better venous circulation and endow it with decongestant properties. For instance, monoterpenes help to limit venous dilation while sesquiterpene hydrocarbons (beta-caryophyllene) stimulate blood circulation in the veins. The venous walls are strengthened and venous return is improved.
How to use peppermint essential oil to combat heavy legs?
One should not apply pure peppermint essential oil directly onto the skin. It is appropriate to dilute it in a vegetable oil, without exceeding 15% of essential oil in the mixture. For instance, a few drops of peppermint essential oil can be added to calophyllum vegetable oil, which itself is renowned for toning blood circulation and keeping the legs light.
This blend can then be used to perform a targeted massage, such as on the legs for instance. It is best to do this while lying down. Massage the legs from the ankle up to the top of the thigh, using upward movements to stimulate blood flow.
Caution! Even though heavy leg syndrome primarily affects pregnant women as pregnancy increases the development of venous system compression, peppermint essential oil is contraindicated for pregnant and breastfeeding women. If you are in this situation, opt for peppermint hydrosol, ensuring that it does not contain menthone. This is the case with our peppermint hydrosol, which does not have any contraindications for pregnant and breastfeeding women.
