Peppermint, also known as Mentha piperita, brandy mint, or lamb mint, is a popular
herb that is used in the world of confectionery and alternative medicine. The plant,
which is native to some parts in Europe and Asia, grows well in moist and shady
places, and produces tiny, purple flowers that bloom from July to September.
Peppermint as an herbal medicine is known for a variety of uses. Its active component,
menthol, is responsible for its calming and soothing properties. Because of this, it
can be used as an aid against symptoms of common cold and dry cough, as well as
pharyngitis. When rubbed on the temples and forehead, its oil can help treat
headaches. It can soothe the skin that is infected with poison ivy and hives. An
anxious person can benefit from it by making a tea out of it as it can reduce mild
anxiety. It may also help treat or cure toothaches, fever, and muscular pain.
It is used to promote good digestion and to treat stomach upset, irritable bowel
syndrome, menstrual cramps, diarrhea, flatulence, and nausea. Its antibacterial
properties can inhibit the growth of herpes and other viruses. Lastly, peppermint may
help treat gallstones.
But aside from being a herbal plant, peppermint is also known as a flavoring in
certain products like toothpaste, chewing gum, ice cream and teas. Peppermint is also
used as an ingredient when making shampoos and soaps, as it leaves a cooling effect on
the skin and scalp.
Peppermint can be taken in tea, capsule, ointment, or cream form. Its leaves and
flowers contain menthol, its active component, and are dried and steeped to make a tea
out of it. Peppermint tea can be consumed to aid in digestion or to treat stomach
upset. If you do not have the time to grow peppermint yourself, don?t worry;
peppermint tea is commercially available and can be bought in the market.
Like all other herbal plants, precautionary care must be exercised when taking or
using peppermint in any form due to the side effects that it might cause. To people
with GERD, you must be wary about using or taking peppermint as it can trigger your
condition by relaxing the sphincter. Ask your doctor for further advice. The same
thing goes to people with gallbladder and liver problems. Other side effects include
allergies, mouth swelling, hives, skin rashes, muscle tremors, and ulcerations. To
pregnant mothers, consult your doctor to know if taking peppermint will cause harm to
your unborn baby. When taking herbal supplements, it is very important to ask for a
healthcare professional?s advice because they are not closely evaluated and monitored
by the FAD. Some other ingredients may have been used which may interact with the
other drugs you are taking, and may cause harm and little-known side effects.
