Peppermint and Mints
Mint has been a favourite of people for thousands of years. The ancient Greeks and Romans used it in food, to freshen up their homes, and to boost health. No wonder – peppermint and other mints are known for their fresh aroma, pleasant taste, and healing properties.
The Story of Mint
An ancient Greek myth tells of the water nymph Minthe, who caught the eye of Hades, ruler of the underworld. Out of jealousy, Hades’ wife Persephone turned Minthe into a plant – and thus the fragrant mint was born. Because of this, the plant was dedicated to Hades in antiquity.
Later in history, the mint was also known as a symbol of hospitality and wisdom. Greeks and Romans rubbed their dining tables with mint leaves before guests arrived, so the room would be filled with a fresh scent.
Mints in Estonia
The mint family is large – we can name at least 40 species worldwide. In Estonia, various mints, including wild mint, water mint, peppermint, and spearmint, can be found. Each one of the species has its own unique flavour and scent. The best known is, of course, peppermint, which is a hybrid of water mint and spearmint.
What is Peppermint Used For?
Peppermint is a popular and traditional remedy for many conditions. Menthol, found in mint, is a well-known ingredient in heart medicines such as Validol, Valocordin, and heart drops. This is because menthol reflexively dilates the blood vessels of the heart, brain, and lungs. Thanks to menthol, mint strengthens heart function, blood vessels, and circulation. Menthol is also used in many cold and cough medicines.
Mint tea, made from fresh or dried leaves, is considered safer for regular consumption than peppermint oil. The tea has antiseptic properties and is regarded as a stimulant. It is effective for treating flatulence, colic, gallstones, gum inflammation, irritable bowel syndrome, diarrhoea, morning sickness, headaches, anxiety-related depression, sore throat, colds, fever, insomnia, fatigue, menstrual cramps, stress-related digestive pain, and can also increase bile flow from the gallbladder.
The herb has antiseptic, analgesic, cleansing, and anti-inflammatory properties, which is why it has often been used for respiratory tract infections.
Tea is often consumed to soothe the stomach and aid digestion, and it may help relieve digestive disorders such as IBS and constipation. Mint tea is also used for stress relief and to improve sleep. Herb in particular helps alleviate stress-related symptoms such as migraines, headaches, and stomach troubles. Other benefits include treating nausea, relieving menstrual cramps and other muscle spasms, easing skin rashes, boosting alertness, and even supporting recovery from herpes simplex.
A Mental Booster
The aroma of mint can also affect the brain. According to a U.S. study, students who smelled peppermint candy during exams performed almost 10% better than the control group. So if you need focus and alertness – keep peppermint close at hand! Studies have also found links between peppermint and improved memory.
Moderation First
Peppermint is a medicinal plant, which means overconsumption can burden the body and, in some cases, is contraindicated. Mint tea can be consumed periodically, with short breaks in between.
Contraindications
People with stomach ulcers, hepatitis, reflux, or advanced gallstones should be cautious with mint. Preparations containing mint should not be given to children under 4 years old. Pregnant women should also be careful, as peppermint contains estrogen, which stimulates the uterus and may induce labour.
Recipe Suggestion: Refreshing Peppermint Tea 🍵🌿
🌱1 bag of Melie peppermint tea
💧 250 ml hot water
🍯 honey (optional)
🍋 a slice of lemon
Preparation:
1️⃣ Rinse fresh mint leaves lightly under cold water.
2️⃣ Place the tea bag in a cup and pour over hot water.
3️⃣ Let steep for 7–10 minutes.
4️⃣ Add 🍯 or 🍋 to taste.
5️⃣ Enjoy your warm and aromatic drink! ✨
💡 Tip! On a hot summer day, cool the tea, add 🧊 ice cubes and some 🍋 lemon slices – and you’ll have a refreshing mint lemonade.
When drunk warm, mint tea is soothing, while chilled peppermint tea is invigorating and great for digestive issues.
👉 Summary: Whether it’s a peppermint tea recipe, a stress-relieving herbal drink, or simply a refreshing taste experience, mint is a small plant with great power. When used in moderation, tea can be an important part of your everyday well-being. 🌱
References:
- Peppermint – https://www.sciencedirect.com/topics/food-science/peppermint
- Piparmünt – universaalne taim nii valuvaigistamiseks kui ka söögiisu vähendamiseks – https://www.ohtuleht.ee/naine/814400/piparmunt-universaalne-taim-nii-valuvaigistamiseks-kui-ka-soogiisu-vahendamiseks
- Menthae piperitae folium – https://www.ema.europa.eu/en/medicines/herbal/menthae-piperitae-folium
- Rahvapärased taimenimetused ”Piparmünt” – https://herba.folklore.ee/?menu=taime&tid=702
- Münt – (perekond) https://et.wikipedia.org/wiki/M%C3%BCnt_(perekond)#
- Neli kasulikku fakti piparmündist: rahustab keha ja meelt – https://omamaitse.delfi.ee/artikkel/79930366/neli-kasulikku-fakti-piparmundist-rahustab-keha-ja-meelt