Peppermint is also known as medical mint. It is a herbaceous perennial of the family of light-white, also known as the labial perennial (Lamiaceae vs. Labiatae). Not everyone knows that it is also a spontaneous inter-species hybrid of water mint (M. aquatica) and green mint (M. spicata), bred (created) probably in England for cultivation in the 18th century.
The name mint comes from Greek mythology after the poor nymph Mintho (Mente, Menthe), who is said to have been the lover of Hades. His wife Persefona, terribly jealous of her husband, persecuted her rival. In order to save nymphs from further annoyance, Hades turned nymph into a 'mint' plant. Mythological legends don't say if Minto liked turning nymphs into plants, but people have benefited a lot from this conversion. In Rome Mente became a goddess personifying human reason.
Peppermint - characteristics
Leaves stimulate gastric juice and bile secretion as well as digestive activities of the stomach and appetite, improve intestinal function and regulate digestive disorders (e.g. indigestion, flatulence), have a windproof and diastolic effect on smooth muscles (e.g. in menstrual ailments). They treat painful stomach cramps, intestinal colic, irritable bowel syndrome, liver and bile ducts diseases (gallstones, jaundice). They have antibacterial, antiviral, cooling, analgesic and calming properties. Mint is also helpful in the treatment of insomnia, migraines, neuralgia, nervous convulsions, measles and soothes coughs. It is also a good nutrient that restores energy, eliminates apathy, lethargy and anorexia. Mint oil has a similar, but stronger effect, especially as a disinfectant and calming agent. It is also a component of many pharmaceutical preparations and medicines.
Peppermint for stomach problems
In folk medicine, peppermint leaves and mint oil were used in stomach pains, digestive disorders such as nausea, indigestion and intestinal colic. Currently, peppermint leaves in the form of tea, tincture, oil and extract are used in ailments such as cramps in the upper gastrointestinal tract and bile ducts, as they have a diastolic effect and reduce smooth muscle tension.
Contraindications and side effects
Although mint has many beneficial properties, if it is abused, it can be harmful. Peppermint infusions are not recommended for people suffering from hyperacidity and heartburn due to stimulation of gastric juice secretion. Mint oil administered orally in doses greater than therapeutic may cause abdominal pain, induce vomiting and have a sleeping effect. Applied to the skin may cause allergic reactions, irritation and redness, so it is recommended to rub in a drop at the beginning of use and check if there are no undesired effects.
