Mint: Best Herb for Inflammation and Digestion

Table of Contents

1. Introduction

Mentha Genus or Mint has four most known species of mentha are Mentha Arvensis (Japanese mint), Mentha Piperita (peppermint), Mentha Spicata (spearmint), and Mentha Citrata (bergamot). Mentha sylvestris is another wild mint that grows much larger than Mentha spicata, this species was used in the Middle East and Israel, as a condiment and in medicine.

Ancient Egyptians used mint in the popular incense Kyphi, to flavor food and wine, and to treat gastric ailments, a cure that is still used today. Ancient Assyrians used it as incense in their rituals to the Fire God. Greeks' athletes rubbed bruised leaves on their skin after bathing, believing it increased strength. Romans and Greeks flavored drinking water with fresh mint.

Peppermint is a globally distributed hybrid of watermint and spearmint. Its name derives from its unique peppery flavor. Mint Spicata has a milder flavor compared to peppermint, it is used in candy, gum, teas, meat, fish, curries, salads, vinegars, jellies and sauces, as well as in toothpaste, cosmetics, and skin-care products. Spearmint dressings are particularly popular in summer in Greece and Southern Asia.

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2. Chemical Compound 

Mint is rich in vitamins A and C, it also contains small amounts of vitamin B2 and the minerals calcium, zinc, copper, and magnesium. Spearmint oil is like peppermint oil but slightly sweeter and pale yellow to greenish in color.  Dried peppermint typically has 0.3-0.45 volatile oil containing menthol (7-8%), menthone (20-46%), menthyl acetate (3-10%), menthofuran (1-17%) and 1,8-cineol (3-6%).

3. Morphology 

Mentha Spicata has dark green, lanced-shaped, jagged leaves and has a sweet flavor with a cool aftertaste. The flowers are usually pink, pink-lilac, or sometimes green. Spearmint leaves can be used fresh, dried, or frozen and can be preserved in salt, sugar, alcohol, or oil.

4. Habitat 

Mentha piperita (peppermint) is a globally distributed hybrid of mentha aquatic (watermint) and mentha spicata (spearmint). Its name derives from its unique peppery flavor. Mentha spicata grows well in nearly all temperate to the Mediterranean but is now globally distributed.

5. Nutritional Value 

Mint is rich in vitamins A and C, it also contains small amounts of vitamin B2 and the minerals calcium, zinc, copper, and magnesium. Spearmint oil is similar to peppermint oil but slightly sweeter and pale-yellow to greenish in color. 

Dried peppermint typically has 0.3-0.4% volatile oil containing menthol 7-8%, menthone 20-46%, menthyl acetate 3-10%, menthofuran 1-17% and 1,8-cineol 3-6%.

6. Ayurvedic Properties 

1. Rasa (Taste): It has pungent (Katu) and slightly sweet (Madhura) taste.

2. Virya (Potency): It is cool in nature (Shita Virya).

3. Vipaka (Post-digestive taste): The post-digestive taste is pungent (Katu Vipaka).

7. Health Benefits and Uses 

Spearmint oil is said to benefit the digestive system by relieving flatulence, constipation, vomiting, and nausea, as well as respiratory tract ailments like cough, bronchitis, asthma, catarrh, and sinus. It is used to flavor confections like milkshakes, and chewing gum, especially in North America, and in personal care products.

Peppermint essential oil gives a cooling sensation on the mucosa and skin and calming effects on the body, it is used in aromatherapy to relieve sore muscles and headaches. It is also used in cleaning supplies for its antimicrobial properties.

Mentha piperita is widely used in medicines to relieve digestive problems including heartburn, nausea, vomiting, morning sickness, irritable bowel syndrome, cramps, upset stomach, diarrhea, liver and gall bladder complaints, spasms during endoscopy procedures, and as a stimulant.

Here are some Key Benefits of Mentha / Mint

Promotes digestion

The menthol in mint has a soothing effect on the digestive tract, making it useful in treating indigestion, bloating, and other digestive issues.

Relieves headaches

The aroma of mint has been shown to alleviate headaches and migraines.

Enhances mental clarity

Mint has been found to improve mental clarity and boost alertness, making it a great addition to your morning routine.

Promotes healthy skin

The anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties of mint make it useful in treating skin conditions such as acne and eczema.

Boosts immunity

Mint is rich in antioxidants, which help to boost the immune system and protect against diseases.

Antioxidant properties

That help protects against free radical damage to cells, which may lead to cancer.

Anti-inflammatory effects

They reduce the risk of heart disease by preventing platelet aggregation; and

Antibacterial activity

Fight against bacteria like staphylococcus epidermis (the cause of acne).

8. Side Effects of Mentha / Mint

Mint can cause digestive problems, skin irritation, and headaches. It is not recommended for people with ulcers as it may worsen their condition. Mint also causes nausea, dizziness, and heartburn. The same goes for upset stomach and diarrhea. As well as these side effects there are many more that are caused by the mint.