Mentha piperita
Peppermint is much more than a flavor for chewing gum. It is one of the most widely used medicinal plants, with good evidence for digestive complaints and tension headaches, and its fresh scent can help you feel more alert.
What is peppermint?
Peppermint is a natural hybrid of water mint and spearmint. Its leaves contain essential oil, mostly menthol, which is responsible for the cooling sensation and many of the plant’s effects.
Health benefits of peppermint
1. Eases stomach pain and indigestion
Peppermint relaxes the smooth muscles of the digestive tract. Enteric-coated peppermint oil capsules are one of the best-studied treatments for irritable bowel syndrome, reducing pain and bloating. Peppermint tea is a gentle option for a feeling of fullness after heavy meals.
2. Relieves tension headaches
Peppermint oil applied to the forehead and temples has been shown in studies to ease tension headaches, in some trials about as well as paracetamol.
3. Can improve alertness
The smell of peppermint has been linked in small studies to better alertness and performance on concentration tasks. It is a pleasant way to freshen up during long working days, though it is not a treatment for attention disorders.
4. Clears the airways
Menthol creates a feeling of freer breathing and is used in steam inhalations and chest rubs for colds. Peppermint also has mild antibacterial properties.
How to use peppermint
- Tea from the leaves – for stomach complaints, nausea and as a refreshing drink.
- Essential oil – diluted on the temples for headaches, or for inhalation.
- Mouth rinse – for fresh breath and minor gum irritation.
- In food – in smoothies, desserts, salads and Middle Eastern dishes.
Safety
Peppermint can worsen heartburn and reflux because it relaxes the lower esophageal sphincter. Never apply peppermint oil to the face of infants and young children – menthol can trigger breathing problems in them. Do not take essential oil internally except in capsules made for that purpose.
Worth knowing
- In ancient Greece, mint was a symbol of hospitality, and tables were rubbed with it before a meal.
- Menthol activates cold receptors in the skin, which is why it feels cool without lowering the temperature.
- Peppermint is a sterile hybrid and is propagated through runners rather than seeds.
Summary
Peppermint is a versatile, well-researched herb for digestion, headaches and fresh breath. Used sensibly – and avoided if you have reflux – it is a simple, effective part of a home remedy kit.
