Backyard Gardening Tips

You’ve probably used peppermint in the preparation of foods, or as a tea.  However, you may be surprised to learn just how beneficial peppermint is to your health.

Peppermint has a large index of health benefits such as: calms digestive spasm; relieves gas; fights bacteria; and acts as a decongestant as well.  It is used to increase the flow of digestive juices and bile while bringing the digestive muscles to a relaxed state. The menthol, which is a component in peppermint, soothes the stomach and eases pain.  In addition, when used in tea it offers relief for mild asthma attacks.

Peppermint has an antispasmodic effect which can provide significant relief for abdominal pain, bloating, constipation and diarrhea, and general abdominal discomfort associated with an intestinal condition. In fact, peppermint oil generates this antispasmodic activity and provides relief for liver and gallbladder conditions.  You may agree that the aroma itself may aid in improved concentration, relieve headaches, and reduce mental fatigue.  In addition, when used topically, it can act as an antiseptic for muscle and nerve pain.  Due to its cooling properties, this particular herb eases inflammation to tissue. It has also been known to relieve insomnia, stress, and anxiety.

Fortified with high levels of manganese, Vitamin C and Vitamin A, peppermint also includes properties such as: fiber, iron, calcium, potassium, magnesium, omega-3, riboflavin, and tryptophan.  Peppermint oil, for example, has been used to reduce colic in babies. It is also known to prevent gallstones.  It soothes the lining of the stomach and relieves cramping. This accounts for some of the over the counter medications which have peppermint properties, such as Bengay ointment and lozenges.

As mentioned earlier, you may be most familiar with peppermint as a tea.  Did you also know that you can add tea to your bath to help treat skin conditions?  Or you can gargle with tea several times a day to treat a sore throat. The menthol in peppermint has antibacterial, antiviral, and analgesic effects. Peppermint, when used as a mouthwash, can aid in the prevention of gingivitis as well. It also should be note that in laboratory studies, peppermint oil was found to kill bacteria that cause urinary tract infections and the herpes simplex virus.

You can drink up to four cups a day for treatment of digestive disorders, morning sickness, or to ease congestion. There have been no toxic side effects associated with consumption of peppermint tea, however, and it is always advisable to consult your physician when taking any herb or supplement.

Peppermint is found in almost everything we eat and drink; from chocolate to ice cream.
Most notably used in chewing gum, there are many medicinal qualities which are derived by the use of peppermint, whether used internally or externally. Add this wonderful herb to your garden. It’s a good thing!