Peppermint is the most familiar and popular of the estimated 25 mint species in existence. It’s a naturally occurring hybrid mint—a cross between watermint and spearmint—that’s indigenous to Europe and Asia.
Peppermint is now cultivated worldwide. In North America, peppermint is grown commercially, almost exclusively, in the northern and eastern portion of the U.S. and the southernmost areas of Canada.
Several health benefits of peppermint are due to the natural compounds found in it.
1. Peppermint relieves headaches
Peppermint is often effective in stopping headaches that are caused by stress or poor diet. These headaches typically restrict blood vessels in the brain; like painkillers, peppermint tea opens up those constricted blood vessels, bringing relief to many headache sufferers.
Peppermint oil can also to help relieve the symptoms of a tension headache. One of them found peppermint oil to be as effective as Tylenol or paracetamol for pain relief. Even the aroma of peppermint tea (or peppermint oil) may help headaches.
2. Peppermint Relieve chemotherapy-induced vomiting
Nausea and vomiting, are common side effects for cancer patients during chemotherapy. Some studies have found that peppermint helps to alleviate symptoms.
3. Peppermint relieve bowel syndrome
Several studies suggest that enteric-coated peppermint oil capsules, which allow the oil to pass through the stomach so it can dissolve in the intestines, may help relieve common symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome such as abdominal pain, bloating, and gas
4. Peppermint treats bad breath
It’s no accident that most toothpaste contains some form of peppermint. With a clean, fresh feeling and menthol that fights halitosis that causes bad breath, peppermint is a true hero when it comes to fresh breath. The aromatic scent of peppermint tea helps to camouflage bad breath while antibacterial properties work from within to kill the germs and bacteria that cause bad breath in the first place
5. Peppermint improves mental awareness and focus
In a study published in the International Journal of Neuroscience, researchers found that peppermint enhanced memory and increased alertness. Scientists are undecided on whether the scent of peppermint or an internal compound is the reason for this increased focus.
Studies have shown the scent of menthol stimulates the hippocampus area that controls mental clarity and focus. The result when drinking peppermint tea is increased feelings of rejuvenation and a refreshed focus that can help you tackle the day.
6. Peppermint promotes healthy skin and hair
Like oral products, peppermint is used in a variety of skin care treatments at salons to promote a healthy scalp. Peppermint can help treat dandruff by reducing itchiness and soothing dry scalps. For best results, wash hair using peppermint tea and let sit for 5 to 10 minutes before rinsing.
The anti-inflammatory properties in peppermint can help reduce redness caused by acne and antiseptic properties help prevent build up of bacteria that can clog pores. The soothing effects of peppermint are useful for treating skin rashes and itchy bug bites.
7. Peppermint reduces stress
Peppermint tea is common in aromatherapy and Ayurveda as a way to reduce stress and increase overall well-being and peace. That’s because peppermint tea contains natural sedative qualities that help you unwind after a long day.
8. Peppermint helps you sleep better
Peppermint tea is an excellent choice if you suffer from insomnia. Caffeine-free peppermint tea relaxes your muscles, reducing tension and anxiety, and helping you to have a restful and sound sleep..
Because peppermint tea is naturally caffeine-free, it’s a great choice before bed.
9. Peppermint cure colds and flu
Menthol, the main chemical component of peppermint, is an effective decongestant. Decongestants shrink the swollen membranes in the nose, making it easier to breathe. Menthol is also an expectorant. Expectorants loosen and bring up mucus from the lungs. Expectorants help people with coughs.
10. Peppermint relieve menstrual cramps
Drinking peppermint tea may reduce the intensity and length of menstrual cramps since peppermint helps prevent muscle contractions.
Conclusion
So either drink peppermint tea or use peppermint oil or add in your other culinary masterpieces, this mint has countless benefits for your health in every form.
