Peppermint is a naturally occurring genetic hybrid between watermint and spearmint. It is commonly known as a gum, candy, or toothpaste flavor, but it also has many health benefits and is available as a supplement, an essential oil, and as a tea. Peppermint was used in folk medicine primarily as a pain reliever, but modern research has shown that the plant can do a lot more than that.
Headache Reliever
A study was conducted in 1996, in which subjects with headaches rubbed peppermint oil into their temples and forehead. The study showed that peppermint oil relieved headache pain as much as over-the-counter acetaminophen. Just three or four drops of the oil rubbed into your temples and forehead before bed can help with insomnia, too.
Skin Solution
A tiny drop of peppermint oil can be an effective treatment for insect bites. Poison ivy, poison oak, hives, and minor rashes can be treated with peppermint oil as well. The oil calms and soothes the affected areas, relieving the itchiness and cooling down the inflamed skin.
Focus Enhancer
Peppermint tea has been shown to improve memory, focus, and concentration, according to a study conducted by The International Journal of Neuroscience. For an added energy boost, try mixing peppermint tea with green tea.
Stomach Soother
Peppermint tea has been shown to ease diarrhea and constipation, soothe stomach pain caused by gas, bloating or cramps, and is commonly used to relieve irritable bowel syndrome. Peppermint can also aid with nausea and reduce stomach pain caused by stress.
Hair Revitalizer
You might have noticed before that peppermint oil is a common ingredient in many household shampoos and conditioners. That’s because peppermint can refresh the scalp, stimulate blood flow to the area, and clear away dandruff. Plus, it makes your hair look shiny and smell minty.
Sinus Reliever
Drinking any type of hot tea with honey in it will work as a decongestant, but peppermint tea goes above and beyond. The menthol in peppermint is believed to relieve sinus pressure by helping to widen nasal passages and break down the mucus. Menthol will also help relieve a sore throat, which usually accompanies congestion from colds or allergies.
Oral Assistant
Peppermint is not only good for bad breath. It also targets and kills bacteria that hide in the cracks and crevices of your teeth and gums that your toothbrush can’t get to. That’s why peppermint is a common ingredient in toothpastes and mouthwashes.
Though more research is needed on peppermint’s digestive, antibacterial, and cosmetic benefits, it is obviously quite a bit more than just a breath freshener. Peppermint tea and peppermint oil are must-haves for any healthy household that prefers a natural touch. Add them to your grocery list, or try growing peppermint yourself in your herb garden.
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[Source: Best Health Mag. Healthline, Huffington Post, Livestrong, Organic Authority, WebMD]
