Mint is an herb that can be grown practically anywhere, even in your own backyard! All you need is some soil and good drainage. However, this herb naturally grows along meadows, riverbanks, and marshes reaching heights up to 36 inches tall.
Native to Africa, Asia, and Europe, mint can be found in every corner of the world. It has a fresh, crisp flavor that gives cocktails an extra kick and adds a cool twist to dishes. But there’s more to mint than just its taste—there are tons of health benefits that go along with it! Check them out here:
Aids Digestion
Mint can help most, if not all, stomach problems you may be dealing with. Menthol, the active oil found in mint leaves contains antiseptic and antibacterial properties that help relieve digestive problems. For example, if you deal with irritable bowel syndrome, peppermint oil has been found to help with its symptoms. Another example would be indigestion. Menthol was found to help speed up digestion and relieve any symptoms that go along with indigestion.
Packed with Nutrients
Mint is a tiny powerhouse. Although usually eaten in small amounts, contains many rich nutrients, including fiber, vitamin A, iron, manganese, and folate. It’s also jam-packed with antioxidants that protect you from free radicals that can be causing harm to your body. Because of its fiber and iron, it’ll help keep your digestive system running smoothly and make sure you’re getting all the nutrients you need to stay healthy.
Asthma
The menthol found in mint works as a decongestant. When helping relieve symptoms of asthma, mucus that is built up in the lungs will loosen and the swollen membranes in the nose shrink, allowing for easier breathing. When relieving symptoms of asthma, you can do this with natural leaves or an essential oil.
Boosts Immune system
Other nutrients that mint contains include phosphorus, calcium, and vitamins C, D, and E, which all work together to build a strong immune system. Ingesting mint leaves can leave you feeling healthier and help with any other ailments such as digestive problems, asthma, and other sicknesses.
Helps Fight the Common Cold
Ever wondered why your Vicks Vapor Rub was scented with mint? You guessed it! As stated with asthma, mint reduces congestion. While clearing congestion in your nose, throat, and lungs, its anti-inflammatory properties also help with a cough that can be causing irritation.
Brain Boost
Ingesting mint and using essential oils of mint has been found to help improve brain function. One study found that those who smelled peppermint oil before a test improved their memory. Another study found that smelling peppermint oil while driving increased focus and decreased stress, fatigue, and frustration.
Helps Curb Headaches
Menthol has been found to ease pain. With this, mint is a great way to relieve yourself of headaches that can be causing discomfort. In fact, peppermint is one of the most common essential oils for headaches. A study was done to find the effect of peppermint oil on acute headaches and the results are promising.
Acne Reduction
Thanks to its antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties, mint is a great way to calm your skin of any irritated acne. Containing high amounts of natural salicylic acid, these are great properties that help fight against blemishes. Studies have been done to see the effectiveness of mint on acne, and positive conclusions have been drawn.
Oral Care
We all know that the most common flavor for oral hygiene products is mint! Mint toothpaste, flavored floss, mouthwash, tablets, and gum are all great ways to get your breath back in check after eating some powerful-smelling foods. Helping with oral problems such as ‘halitosis’ (bad breath), mint has been found as a great option for helping this problem.
Soothes Breastfeeding Discomfort
When breastfeeding, many women can experience pain due to sore nipples. Studies conducted have found the benefits of mint on those who are breastfeeding. One example would be a study that found that applying peppermint water to the nipples after breastfeeding helps relieve any pain- better than applying breastmilk around the area (a common aid). Continuing, another study found pain and nipple cracks decreased with those who used mint essential oils on the area.
