Peppermint is one of the most well-known traditional leafy plants.. We have been taking peppermint infusions for hundreds of years, as an ingredient for cooking, applying it in creams, as a chewing gum flavor and we even drink mojito with peppermint.
And it is indisputable the refreshing and pleasant flavor that mint brings in any of its multiple uses; but the truth is that the benefits of peppermint include much more than its aroma and its flavor.
- Related article: “Aloe Vera: 8 properties and benefits of this plant”.
What is peppermint and how is it different from mint?
Peppermint is an aromatic herb that has been widely used for hundreds of years. for hundreds of years. It is part of the family of aromatic herbs called mint and its botanical name is mentha spicata.
It is quite common for us to get confused between peppermint and mint, and even think that they are the same herb. However, they are two different plants. Peppermint, as we mentioned, is one of the different types of mint that exist. types of mint that existIt is not entirely wrong to call it mint. However, it is not the same plant that we know by that name.
One of the main differences differences between spearmint and peppermint, besides the type of plant, is theBesides the type of plant, is the color: the darker green leaves are mint, the lighter green ones are spearmint. Although they are different, their aroma and flavor can be very similar. They also share the same benefits and properties, so a little confusion between the two herbs is nothing to worry about.
- You may also be interested in: “Moringa: what is it good for and 8 benefits of this plant”.
Benefits of peppermint
Not for nothing has peppermint been used for centuries in infusions, refreshments and ointments, to obtain all the medicinal properties it has to bring us. Here we tell you the main benefits of peppermintso that you are encouraged to have it at home.
1. Peppermint for digestion
If mint has been famous for something for centuries, it is for its ability to improve our digestion. its powers to improve our digestion and help our digestive system. Whether you suffer from gas, indigestion, nausea, colic or abdominal distension, taking peppermint in the form of infusions will be a relief for any of these disorders, thanks to its antispasmodic and carminative properties.
They are so curative the properties of peppermint for our digestive system that it can even reduce irritable bowel syndrome by 75%. Of course, you need a good dose of peppermint a day without fail. Peppermint brings us these benefits because it acts on the stomach and digestive tract in general, relaxing the digestive muscles and reducing irritation.
2. Strengthens the immune system
One of the properties of peppermint is that of being antibacterial. When you drink peppermint infusions on a regular basisit kills bacteria that can cause ailments such as colds.
3. Goodbye to colds and flu
In addition to preventing this type of diseases caused by bacteria and viruses, another of the benefits of peppermint happens when you are already feeling the symptoms of cold as annoying as excessive mucus, because it has active properties that lighten the mucus and reduce it.. In this way the sinuses are reduced and can more easily expel mucus from the body and end the congestion in the chest.
4. Peppermint against bad breath
Thanks to its antibacterial and antimicrobial properties, one of the benefits of peppermint is that it helps you get rid of bad breath. This plant will be your ally against bad breath.This plant will be your ally against bad breath, either chewing peppermint leaves at specific times or making a mint-based rinse every day for the most severe problems of halitosis.
- Related article: “How to remove bad breath: causes and 7 remedies for halitosis”.
5. Against stress
Another of the benefits of peppermint is that it helps us to release stress and rest better while we sleep. Peppermint is one of the medicinal plants with the most soothing and relaxing properties, so do not forget to take peppermintSo do not forget to take peppermint infusions if situations become heavy and stressful for you.
6. Skin irritations
One of the properties of peppermint par excellence is its refreshing power. This is why it is very beneficial for soothing skin irritations. beneficial to soothe skin irritations that can cause burns. that can cause burns, insect bites, rashes or eczema.
However, when you are going to apply peppermint directly on the skin, it is better to do it with cream or mix peppermint oil with a little cream, so that the excess of this plant does not cause the opposite effect.
7. For headaches
The properties of peppermint are excellent for soothing headachesand you can benefit from it in two ways.
On the one hand, you can inhale peppermint oil or cream, to reduce the pressure on the sinus (and therefore the headache) and return it to its natural state.
On the other hand, you can rub peppermint oil or cream on the strategic pressure points where you feel the pain, such as the temples and behind the ears. If you wish, you can also reinforce its effect by taking an infusion of peppermint..
- Related article: “How to remove the headache: 6 home remedies.”