Back Next

Mentha Piperata

Peppermint

Known as peppermint, is a hybrid mint variety that is a cross between watermint (Mentha aquatica) and spearmint (Mentha spicata). It is widely cultivated for its aromatic leaves, which are used for various culinary, medicinal, and aromatic purposes.

COMMON NAME

Peppermint (Mentha piperita)

FAMILY NAME

Lamiaceae

ACTIONS

Peppermint is a carminative, antispasmodic, aromatic, diaphoretic, anti-emetic, nervine, anti-septic, analgesic, anti-microbial, anti-inflammatory, decongestant, anti-tussive, peripheral vasodilator, choleretic, cholagogue, emmenagogue, and anti-pruritic.

BENEFITS

Peppermint has many benefits and can help provide pain relief, respiratory support, cognitive enhancement, and support digestive issues.

BENEFITS
Peppermint (Mentha piperita) has many health benefits including its digestive properties that help to relieve indigestion and symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome. It also has pain-relieving properties that extend to headaches and muscle sorenesswith menthol providing a cooling sensation, and peppermint aiding respiratory health by alleviating nasal congestion and cough symptoms. Additionally, peppermintcan help enhance cognitive function, promote relaxation, and exhibit antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory effects.
USAGE
Peppermint tea is a popular form of consumption for its digestive relief and relaxation benefits. The aromatic qualities of peppermint oil are often usedin aromatherapy helping to promote mental clarity and stress reduction, while inhaling steam infused with the oil can alleviate respiratory discomfort. Peppermint can also be used in a topical form by using diluted peppermint oil as a natural remedy for headaches, muscle pain, and skin irritations. It is also a popular ingredient in culinary creations and personal care items such as toothpaste and shampoos.
MORE INFO
Peppermint has a long history well before it became a popular candy and essential oil. Dating back to ancient Egypt, peppermint was used for its aromatic qualities and flavor. Peppermint gained prominence in ancient Greece and Rome, where it was appreciated for its medicinal and culinary attributes, but it was in the Renaissance when it became a common remedy for digestive and respiratory issues. It wasn’t until the 18th and 19th centuries that the commercial cultivation of peppermint, particularly in the Pacific Northwest of the United States became a major producer of the plant.