Contributed by Healthians Team
Introduction
More than a dozen plant species that are members of the genus Mentha go by the name ‘mint,’ including peppermint and spearmint.
Mint plants are especially known for their cooling effects. People also use fresh and dried versions of mint as cooking additives.
Teas, alcoholic beverages, sauces, salads, and desserts are just a few of the dishes and drinks that include mint as an ingredient which not only enhances the flavour but also provides the body with so many health benefits.
Even though eating raw mint leaves has certain health benefits, research shows that many of mint’s health advantages come from applying it to the skin, breathing in its perfume, or swallowing a capsule of it.
In alternative medicine, peppermint has been used to possibly treat conditions like help in relieving indigestion, could enhance brain function as well as lessen cramps during procedures like colonoscopy and endoscopy.
Helps in relieving indigestion
Mint can help treat digestive issues such as indigestion and an upset stomach.
When food stays in the stomach for too long before moving on to the remainder of the digestive system, indigestion may result.
Numerous studies show that taking peppermint oil with meals helps food to flow through the stomach more quickly, which may lessen the symptoms associated with this type of indigestion.
Excellent nutritional value
According to the nutritional information for spearmint or mint, as it is more popularly known, it can also offer a good dosage of balanced nourishment. Among other nutrients, two tablespoons of mint provide 1.5 mg of vitamin C, 0.4 grams of protein, 0.9 grams of carbs, 0.8 grams of dietary fibre, 22.4 mg of calcium, 6.8 mg of phosphorus, and 51.5 mg of potassium.
In comparison to other herbs and spices, it is also a rich source of antioxidants. Antioxidants help in protecting your body against oxidative stress, a form of cell damage brought on by free radicals.
Enhances brain function
In addition to consuming mint, some reports suggest inhaling the fragrance of the plant’s essential oils may have a role to play in enhancing brain function.
You’ll be surprised to know that smelling peppermint oil for five minutes caused significant memory improvements.
According to a different study, inhaling these oils while driving improved alertness and reduced feelings of irritation, anxiety, and exhaustion.
Covers up bad breath
When trying to avoid or treat bad breath, some people turn to mint-flavoured chewing gum and breath mints.
Most of these products, according to experts, can mask bad breath for a few hours. However, they do not remove the bacteria or other substances that cause foul breath in the first place, they merely mask it.
Helps in the skincare routine
An additional remedy for skin issues including acne and scars is mint. Mint leaves have strong antibacterial, antifungal, and anti-inflammatory properties that can help cure acne, and lessen the swelling and redness brought on by acne bursts.
The high salicylic acid and vitamin A content of mint leaves help to treat acne by reducing the production of sebum oil in the skin.
Acne can be treated and prevented with mint leaf extract. Mint leaves’ richness in menthol and natural antioxidants makes them an excellent ingredient for skin cleansers, toners, astringents, and moisturisers.
Simple mint tea recipe you should add to your diet
Choose mint tea in place of milk tea and green tea. Your mental health will benefit from this tea in addition to your physical wellness. It is also believed that the perfume of mint plants helps lessen many depressive symptoms, resulting in a peaceful and relaxed mind.
Simply bring some water to a boil and add a few mint leaves. Allow the nutrients in the leaves to soak up into the water. After straining the tea, add a teaspoon, each of honey and lemon. Enjoy the delicious mixture!
Final thoughts
According to research, mint is a wonderful herb with many uses and is a healthy addition to your diet because it is loaded with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.
Mint has a variety of health advantages, including those that help with treating indigestion, bad breath, and even skin problems. Including some mint in your diet definitely can’t go wrong.
Furthermore, you should also undergo preventive health checkups. These health checkups give a complete report about your health, allowing you to take necessary precautionary measures to improve your well-being and keep various ailments at bay.
