Mint: Benefits for Health, Hair, and Skin and how to use Peppermint

Mint popularly known as the cooling sensation, is a magical herb, which can instantly accentuate the taste and aroma of any dish. These fragrant leaves not only add aroma to the food but are also loaded with immense health benefits. however, mint has been in use for centuries for its medicinal properties too. In this post, we shall be decoding some incredible benefits of Mint for your health, hair, and skin.

The health benefits of mint also include weight loss, improving cold symptoms, treating various gastrointestinal issues, managing diabetes, improving brain function, dental care, boosting immunity, and relieving stress. Moreover, mint contains various antibacterial, antifungal, and anti-inflammatory properties that help maintain optimum skincare.

Aside from being a versatile culinary herb, it also offers an abundance of health benefits due to its powerful compounds.

What is Mint?

Mint is not a staple diet, but the health benefits, aroma, and beauty are seen together in the mint plant itself. The age of the mint plant is also very long.

There are several species of the mint plant, but Mentha spicata Linn. Is used only for medicine and diet. This mint is also called mountain mint; Because it is more in the hilly area.

The botanical name of mint Mentha spicata Linn. (Mentha spiceta) is Syn-Mentha Viridis Linn., And is of the Lamiaceae (Lamiaceae) clan. The mint is known by many names throughout the world. Is, which are:

In English- Garden mint, Lamb mint, Spearmint. in Hindi- Pudina, in Arabic- Fujnaj, Naana. in Punjabi- Paharipodina. in Gujarati- Phudino.

Nutritional Profile

Mint is a flavorful and aromatic herb that is commonly used in cooking and herbal medicine. Here is an overview of the nutritional profile of mint:

• Calories: Mint is low in calories, with approximately 1 calorie per leaf.
• Carbohydrates: Mint contains about 0.2 grams of carbohydrates per leaf.
• Fiber: Mint is a good source of dietary fiber, with approximately 0.1 grams of fiber per leaf.
• Vitamins and minerals: Mint is a good source of vitamin C, vitamin A, and folate. It also contains small amounts of minerals such as calcium, iron, and potassium.
• Antioxidants: Mint contains several antioxidants, including rosmarinic acid, which has been shown to have anti-inflammatory and anti-allergic properties.
• Essential oils: Mint contains essential oils, including menthol, which is responsible for its characteristic cooling and refreshing sensation.

Possible Mint Benefits

Most people think that mint is only added for flavor. However, they are far more important than many realize, and offer some health benefits without any side effects.

Help Indigestion

Mint helps in strengthening the digestive system. (study) For years, mint tea has been used as a home remedy for us by our grandmothers, as it gives relief in improving the digestive system. Taking an equal amount of fresh juice of mint leaves with lemon and honey provides relief in most stomach diseases.

Help in Maintaining Gastrointestinal Health

Evidence suggests that peppermint oil acts as a remedy for a range of gastrointestinal conditions, Gastric Physiology, and Gastric Emptying, including indigestion, IBS, and stomach pain. (study)

A paste made from the mint leaves can also be added to buttermilk and taken every morning on an empty stomach to serve the same function.

Fights Infections

The mint leaves have potent anti-bacterial, anti-fungal, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant properties. So regular consumption of mint shields the body against various infections and germs. (study)

Immune-Boosting

Rich mint of vitamin ‘A’ is very beneficial for our health. Its leaves contain nutrients such as calcium, phosphorus, vitamin C, vitamin D, vitamin E, and small amounts of the vitamin B complex. All these compounds together improve the body’s immune system, keeping the body safe from infection and inflammation.

 The abundance of Essential Oils

Loaded with minerals and vitamins, mint is also a powerhouse for a number of volatile essential oils. These essential oils possess anti-inflammatory, anti-bacterial, anti-diabetic, anti-dysenteric, and digestive properties that are extremely beneficial for the health, of hair, skin, and oral health.

Based on research, it can be said that the aromatherapy of peppermint can prove to be effective. (study)

Control Dehydration

Peppermint is very beneficial to avoid dehydration. Mixing an equal quantity of mint and lemon juice in dehydration is beneficial. If vomiting, diarrhea, or dehydration, half a cup of mint juice is very beneficial.

 Improve Brain Function

The medicinal properties of peppermint can be beneficial in enhancing memory. Research suggests that the use of mint tea has seen many positive results among the youth. Some other studies suggest that the aroma of peppermint oil may increase memory and alertness.

Promotes Weight Loss

For those who want to lose weight, mint is like a panacea. Research has shown that peppermint extract can increase weight loss. You can include peppermint in your regular diet to lose weight.

Cure Asthma

Mint has properties that can be beneficial in asthma. For this, you can chew some mint leaves. Drinking mint juice can also provide relief from respiratory problems.

Dental Care and Oral Health

One of the health benefits of peppermint leaves is that they are good for tooth hygiene. First of all, peppermint refreshes your breath which is its specialty.

The research found that rinsing with peppermint water reduces mouth odor. From this, it can be inferred that peppermint may be helpful in reducing the odor of the mouth.

Improve Eye Vision

Mint leaves are high in vitamin A, which contains carotenoids that can protect the cornea. Eating a diet rich in mint can help improve your vision over time.

Benefits Of Mint for taking Care of Skin

Mint has several benefits for taking care of the skin. Here are some of the potential benefits of using mint for skin care:

1. Soothes irritation: Mint has natural anti-inflammatory properties, which can help to soothe skin irritation and redness. It is often used to treat skin conditions like eczema, psoriasis, and acne.
2. Controls oil production: Mint contains salicylic acid, which helps to control oil production in the skin. This can be particularly helpful for those with oily or acne-prone skin.
3. Refreshes and cools skin: The menthol in mint provides a cooling and refreshing sensation on the skin, which can be particularly soothing during hot weather or after exercise.
4. Fights free radicals: Mint is rich in antioxidants, which can help to fight free radicals and protect the skin from damage caused by environmental factors like pollution and UV rays.
5. Anti-aging properties: Mint contains vitamin A, which is essential for skin health and can help to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
6. Cleanses and tones skin: Mint is a natural astringent, which means it can help to cleanse and tone the skin. It can also help to unclog pores and remove excess oil and dirt.

Overall, mint can be a beneficial ingredient in skincare products or as a natural remedy for skin care. . Methanol has a unique property that cures itchy and infected skin. According to the Research General of Medicinal Plant, menthol found in peppermint can be beneficial in reducing skin itching and burning sensation. (study) However, it’s important to remember that everyone’s skin is different, and you should always patch-test any new product or ingredient before using it on your entire face. If you have any skin concerns or medical conditions, it’s important to consult with a dermatologist or healthcare provider before using mint for skin care

How to Use Peppermint (Mint)

Peppermint is a versatile herb that can be used in a variety of ways. Here are some common ways to use peppermint:

• Peppermint tea is another popular method that you can include in your diet.
• You can chew mint leaves.
• Take rock salt mixed with mint juice and eat it.
• Can add peppermint to green salad, dessert, and chicken.
• Chutney also made from mint leaves.
• Mint leaves also dried and powdered. This powder can be mix in water and buttermilk.
• Its paste is also useful to reduce nipple pain during breastfeeding.
• Capsules made from it are also useful.
• As a tea: Boil water and steep a few peppermint leaves or a peppermint tea bag for 5-10 minutes. You can add honey or lemon to taste.
• As a seasoning: Peppermint can be used to flavor savory dishes, such as salads, soups, and meats. Use fresh or dried leaves to add a refreshing flavor.
• As an essential oil: Peppermint essential oil can be used in aromatherapy or topically to soothe sore muscles or headaches. Dilute the oil with a carrier oil, such as almond or coconut oil, before applying it to the skin.
• In skincare products: Peppermint oil can be added to skincare products, such as facial cleansers or toners, to provide a refreshing and cooling sensation.
• As a natural insect repellent: Peppermint oil can be used to repel insects, such as mosquitoes and ants. Mix a few drops of peppermint oil with water in a spray bottle and apply it to areas where insects are present.
• In baking: Peppermint can be used to flavor baked goods, such as cookies and cakes. Use peppermint extract or finely chopped fresh peppermint leaves to add a minty flavor.
• When using peppermint, it’s important to use it in moderation as it can be very potent. Additionally, if you have any health conditions or are pregnant or breastfeeding, consult with your healthcare provider before using peppermint

Precautions of mint

Overall, mint is a nutrient-dense herb that can be a healthy addition to a well-balanced diet. It is particularly rich in antioxidants and essential oils, which may offer various health benefits. However, it’s important to note that mint should not be used as a replacement for medical treatment, and you should always consult with your healthcare provider before using mint for medicinal purposes.