What are the effects of mint?

Mint is a herb that contains many nutrients that are very good for health. Fresh mint leaves in both Eastern and Western medicine are used for healing. So how to use mint to bring high efficiency?

Mint is a herbaceous, perennial plant. Mints originated in Europe and the Middle East, but they are now widely grown around the world. Mint grows well in moist and shaded areas. Because mint contains aromatic essential oils, when harvested, fresh mint leaves and flower tops are usually taken because they contain the most menthol. The essence in mint is also used as a flavoring agent in many confectionery products, ice cream, drinking water, soap, shampoo.

Mint leaves contain very high levels of vitamin A and antioxidants. These are all very beneficial substances for health, it protects the body from oxidative stress and enhances eyesight. In addition, mint also includes a small amount of other nutrients and minerals such as: potassium, magnesium, calcium, vitamins B, B1, B2, B3, phosphorus, vitamin C, iron, fiber.
Fresh mint leaves are very low in calories, about 25g of fresh leaves for only 4 calories. Fresh mint leaves contain negligible amounts of protein and fat, in addition, it also contains only a small amount of carbohydrates. In 25g of fresh mint leaves usually only contains 1g of carbohydrates (including 0.5g of fiber). The fiber contained in mint leaves also has good health effects such as helping to lower blood cholesterol levels and reducing the risk of obesity.

Mint has many uses that bring many health benefits. The following are the effects of mint, including:
Improve indigestion and flatulence Mint is a spicy, cool but mild herb. For a long time, it has been used to treat digestive symptoms such as abdominal pain, indigestion and upset stomach. According to research, mint has the effect of increasing secretions in the gallbladder, thereby helping bile circulate better. This will also help strengthen and accelerate digestion, while maintaining cholesterol levels always at a stable level.
Fresh mint leaves also work to help relieve pain and reduce discomfort caused by gas and bloating very effectively.
Relieves Symptoms of Irritable Bowel Syndrome Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a very common digestive disorder with symptoms such as stomach pain, bloating, constipation or diarrhea. Studies have shown that mint contributes to the effectiveness of treatment in reducing the symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome. Mints are an effective remedy because they contain menthol, which relieves pain or discomfort in the abdomen caused by irritable bowel syndrome.
According to a clinical trial, 75% of patients with irritable bowel syndrome, after being given menthol capsules twice a day for 4 weeks. The results showed an improvement in symptoms of the disease, namely a reduction of at least 50% of the overall symptoms of IBS.
Mint leaves support colds and flu In mint leaves contain menthol essence - a blood thinner, has expectorant effect, effectively clears nasal passages, mucus, reduces nasal congestion and helps clear nose and mouth. more open. Menthol is also effective when it comes to soothing and alleviating a sore throat, especially when combined with mint leaves and tea.

In one study, the menthol in mint was shown to be effective in protecting the stomach lining from the negative effects of indomethacin and ethanol. Therefore, it has an important role in the prevention of stomach ulcers caused by heavy drinking or frequent use of pain relievers.
Fresh mint leaves anti-inflammatory effect As is known, in mint leaves are rich in antioxidants and anti-inflammatory substances called rosmarinic acid. This acid has been shown to be effective in improving symptoms caused by seasonal allergies.
Enhance brain function Regularly smelling the scent of menthol also helps to bring health benefits, including enhancing brain function. An experiment in 144 adults showed that smelling peppermint for 5 minutes before taking a test significantly increased memory. In addition, while driving, if you smell peppermint oil, it will also help you stay awake, reduce fatigue and anxiety, and improve symptoms of Alzheimer's disease.
Relieves Soreness for Lactating Women Babies are usually breastfed, but this can lead to pain, cracking and damage to the nipples. A study published in April 2007 showed that applying water or applying mint leaves to the area around the nipples can effectively improve nipple pain. However, this method should only be done with menthol and crushed fresh mint leaves mixed with water. Mint should not be eaten directly, because it can change the taste of breast milk.
Good for oral health, helps to freshen the mouth Mint contains ingredients like a natural anti-microbial agent, killing bacteria, thus helping to freshen breath. You can drink tea from fresh mint leaves to gargle or chew fresh mint leaves to disinfect and keep your mouth fresh.
Peppermint essential oil against motion sickness and repelling insects Menthol in mint has an effective effect in combating motion sickness and avoiding nausea. You can put 3-4 drops of essential oil on a handkerchief and then put it on your nose to inhale, which will help reduce motion sickness. Peppermint essential oil spray will help repel insects effectively while eliminating odors.
In general, mint has a lot of benefits for human health. It is like a precious folk medicine with many wonderful uses. Eating mint is also very safe, with very few side effects. Through this article, hopefully readers have got the answer to the question, what are mint leaves for? From there, know how to use it effectively and for the right purpose.