Peppermint is an aromatic herb in the mint family that is a cross between watermint and spearmint.
Native to Europe and Asia, it has been used for thousands of years for its pleasant, minty taste and health benefits.
Peppermint is used as a flavoring in breath mints, candies and other foods. Additionally, many people consume peppermint as a refreshing, caffeine-free tea.
Peppermint leaves contain several essential oils including menthol, menthone and limonene. Menthol gives peppermint its cooling properties and recognizably minty scent.
While peppermint tea is often drunk for its flavor, it may also have several health benefits. Listed below are some of the Benefits of peppermint.
- Relieves digestive symptoms, such as gas, bloating and indigestion.
- Acts as a muscle relaxant and pain reliever, it may diminish certain types of headaches. When peppermint oil applied to the forehead and temples significantly reduced pain after two hours. You may want to use with a carrier oil ” Almond oil or Jojoba oil” with the peppermint when applying to the skin.
- It is a common flavoring for toothpastes, mouthwashes and chewing gums to freshen your breath.
- It has antibacterial, antiviral and anti-inflammatory properties. Because of this, peppermint tea may fight clogged sinuses due to infections, the common cold and allergies.
- Drinking peppermint tea may help improve your ability to concentrate and focus.
- Peppermint tea is delicious and easy to add to your diet. Below is a recipe. Bring 2 cups of water to a boil. Turn off the heat and add a handful of torn peppermint leaves to the water. Cover and steep for 5 minutes. Strain the tea and drink.
- Menthol in peppermint can cause adverse side effects in large amounts. While it’s difficult to consume too much menthol by drinking peppermint tea, it’s not recommended for people with certain health conditions. Peppermint can help with digestion and stomach pain but can worsen acid reflux