Spices, Plants and Natural Remedies >> Peppermint

It is a spreading, fragrant herb. The flowers are lilac pink or red, purple stems. Contains Vitamin a and C, calcium, potassium and menthol. Peppermint is a popular candy with children and leaves a refreshing taste in the mouth. It is the most widely used of all aromatic herbs. Peppermint's popular flavor is used in desserts, beverages, ice-cream, liqueurs, sauces, confectionaries, candies and a variety of after dinner mints.

It cures indigestion and relaxes the muscle of the digestive tract. If peppermint is taken before eating, hunger pangs subside briefly, but soon return to increase the appetite. It relieves colon spasms, decreases inflammation and helps to heal ulcers.

Peppermint also eases nervous headaches, including migraine. Menthol, the main constituent of peppermint, helps kill bacteria, viruses and parasites in the stomach. It also destroys fungus infections, including ringworm and herpes simplex.

• Peppermint essential oil is used for flavoring chewing gum, candy and mints.
  
• Peppermint is widely used by aromatherapists. Peppermint scent increases concentration, stimulates the mind and body and keeps one awake.
  
• Make a strong tea using peppermint or add a few drops of its essential oil in a steaming pan of water.
• Inhale steam for a few minutes. Is very good for clearing stuffy nose and throat. Cleans blocked sinuses.
  
• Externally, the essential oil is used in balms and liniments as a combination cooling and heating agent that increases blood flow to the area.