Peppermint: More Beneficial Than Chewing Gum
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 offers a wide range of health benefits, such as calming digestive spasms, relieving gas, fighting bacteria, and acting as a decongestant. In Los Angeles functional medicine, practitioners emphasize the importance of natural remedies like peppermint for enhancing digestive health.
Peppermint increases the flow of digestive juices and bile while relaxing the digestive muscles. The menthol in peppermint soothes the stomach and eases pain. Additionally, when used in tea, it provides relief for mild asthma attacks.
Peppermint’s antispasmodic effects can significantly relieve abdominal pain, bloating, constipation, diarrhea, and general discomfort associated with intestinal conditions. Peppermint oil, in particular, promotes this antispasmodic activity and provides relief for liver and gallbladder conditions. The aroma alone may help improve concentration, relieve headaches, and reduce mental fatigue. For those exploring functional medicine Studio City, incorporating peppermint into their wellness routine can yield positive results.
When applied topically, peppermint can act as an antiseptic for muscle and nerve pain, and its cooling properties soothe inflamed tissue. Peppermint is also known to alleviate insomnia, stress, and anxiety. Fortified with high levels of manganese, Vitamin C, and Vitamin A, peppermint also contains fiber, iron, calcium, potassium, magnesium, omega-3 fatty acids, riboflavin, and tryptophan. Peppermint oil has been used to reduce colic in babies and prevent gallstones.
As mentioned earlier, peppermint is often consumed as a tea. But did you know you can also add peppermint tea to your bath to treat skin conditions? Gargling with peppermint tea several times a day can help soothe a sore throat. The menthol in peppermint provides antibacterial, antiviral, and analgesic effects. When used as a mouthwash, peppermint can help prevent gingivitis. Additionally, laboratory studies have shown that peppermint oil kills bacteria responsible for urinary tract infections and the herpes simplex virus.
You can drink up to four cups of peppermint tea a day to treat digestive disorders and morning sickness or ease congestion. While no toxic side effects have been associated with consuming peppermint tea, it’s always advisable to consult your physician before using any herb or supplement. For those looking for guidance on integrating such herbs into their health regimen, consider reaching out to Functional Medicine Los Angeles for expert advice.
Peppermint is found in many of the foods and drinks we consume—from chocolate to ice cream. While peppermint is most notably used in chewing gum, its medicinal properties, whether used internally or externally, make it a truly beneficial herb. Consider adding this wonderful plant to your garden—it’s a good thing! For those interested in holistic approaches to health, functional medicine Los Angeles may also explore the benefits of incorporating peppermint into your wellness routine.