Mentha piperita, also known as peppermint, is a hybrid mint, a cross between watermint and spearmint. The leaves of the peppermint plant are processed for the essential oil to produce flavorings mainly for chewing gum and toothpaste.

Peppermint oil can also be used in skin care products. Upon topical application, peppermint oil provides a cool, soothing effect. Peppermint oil can also help balance the skin’s oil secretion, therefore preventing acne. Lastly, peppermint oil has a high concentration of natural pesticides, mainly pulegone and menthone, and is known to repel some pest insects, including mosquitoes.