Picture taken by Jaysen Reese
Where peppermint came from is a complete mystery, but it feels like it's been around forever. Peppermint is a hybrid of watermint and spearmint. Although its origin is unclear, the herb has been used medicinally for thousands of years. Between the Mentha genus, peppermint belongs to the most common species. It's aromatic flavour imparts many dishes, cosmetics, soaps, toothpastes and lots of other products a strong menthol taste that has a lingering cool effect on the tongue. In addition the herb has been used as a natural remedy for a number of different conditions for ages. Being especially an excellent remedy for the digestive system, peppermint contains lots of other different therapeutic values.
Read more...
History & Folklore
Although the hybrid-herb was first cultivated in England in the late 17th century, the use of peppermint still goes way back to ancient Egyptian times were it had several purposes. Back in 1000 BC, dried peppermint leaves could be found in Egyptian pyramids serving as a ritual perfume. The ancient Egyptian people discovered the herbs medicinal abilities and used it as a remedy for indigestion, while Greeks and Romans employed the herb as a stomach soother. They also used peppermint to scent their bath water and bedding. During feasts, Romans made wreaths out of peppermint leaves to crows themselves and rake advantage of its detoxifying effects. In the 18th century he medicinal knowledge about the herb finally reached Western Europe and became a folk remedy for multiple conditions like vomiting, morning sickness, respiratory infections, nausea and a lot of other complains. Today we add peppermint in lots of cosmetics o enjoy its strong flavour during tea time.
Habitat & Cultivation
Peppermint originally was grown commercially in Europe, Asia and North America. Today the herb is cultivated all over the world. The plant requires rich soil and a place where the drainage is good. Planting the herb in full sun will increase peppermint's medicinal qualities. It is preferred to grow the plant in separate containers because of its tendency to spread fast.
Uses
Digestive problems Peppermint is a blessing for various digestive ailments, such as an irritated bowel, loss of appetite, colic, gas, nausea, griping and wind, bloating, diarrhoea and many more. An infusion of peppermint tea or a couple drops of essential oil can better the flow of digestive juices and bile. In soothing the gut muscles, it helps with easing indigestion and reducing colon spasms.
Pain relief Peppermint has a pain-relieving effect on headaches and migraines linked to the digestive weakness. When applied to the skin, peppermint reduces sensitivity and relives pain.
Infection The herb is used to help to treat different respiratory ailments like bronchitis, coughs or asthma. Peppermint essential oil is used as a chest rub or inhalant. Infections related to digestions can be soothed with the herb.
Parts used
Aerial parts are used fresh or dried.
Key Actions
Antispasmodic
Stimulates sweating
Antimicrobial
Analgesic
Carminative
Constituents
Volatile oil (up to 1,5), including menthol (35-55%), menthone (10-40%)
Flavonoids (luteolin, menthoside)
Phenolic acids
Triterpenes
View References
References
- Chevallier, Andrew, FNIMH; Encyclopedia of Herbal Medicine - 550 Herbs and Remedies for Common Ailments; 3. Edition 2016; ISBN: 978-0-2412-2944-6; Page 114.
No Remedies found containing Peppermint
Products with Peppermint
Peppermint Reviews
1 star
0%
2 star
0%
3 star
0%
4 star
0%
5 star
100%
Help others by leaving a review
Share your experience with this herb to help other people
Name of user
Reviewed on July 02, 2020
I use organic peppermint essential oil for headaches and it works better than ibuprofen. Just rub on the area where your headache is and immediately I start feeling relief.
Ailments it helped me with
1 person found this helpful
theresa A.
Reviewed on August 13, 2020
I used this herb to make an ointment for colds and it is wonderful. Fresh and minty scent. It works fantastic. This herb is also good for headaches, sinus, and joint pain
Ailments it helped me with
1 person found this helpful