The Benefits of Peppermint
Saturday, August 6, 2011 at 5:08AM
Looking for a natural way to soothe some common ailments? Consider peppermint. The dried leaves of the peppermint plant offer more than a pleasing aroma and flavor, they have medicinal applications as well. Peppermint can be used:
- As a chest rub to ease breathing with the common cold
- For relief of indigestion and nausea
- As a treatment for gastrointestinal ailments such as irritable bowel syndrome and diverticular disease
Be aware that peppermint tea can worsen the heartburn experienced with gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) and may also promote flow of bile from the gall bladder and complicate gallstones - consult your doctor if you have these conditions. Also, don’t give peppermint tea to babies or young children: the menthol it contains can cause a choking sensation in youngsters of this age.
When choosing peppermint, look for oil containing at least 44% free menthol or teas with 100% pure peppermint leaves. You can buy pure peppermint leaf tea in most supermarkets. Brew it in a covered container to avoid loss of volatile components, and drink as much of it as you like, hot or iced.
Reader Comments (9)
I find peppermint tea very soothing if I have a sore throat.
All the more reason to love peppermint tea!
Thanks for sharing this, Dr. Weil.
I use peppermint daily. I use it for my dogs also. We Love it!
Why no mention of steeping fresh leaves?
Peppermint is a common spice in India and beneficial for acidity and heartburn.
I have a ton of mint growing in my yard,
Does anybody have good info on drying it for later use as in tea?
Peppermint makes a refreshing foot bath for tired feet too. It has so many wonderful uses!
peppermint shampoo and conditioner, my long hair just loves it.
I find a warm-to-hot wash cloth, with 3-4 drops of peppermint oil often helps me with my headaches and migraines as compress on forehead, temples, back of neck and also inhale under the nose.