Peppermint, with its refreshing aroma, is a plant that has established itself over the centuries in various cultures around the world. Native to Europe, this hybrid plant resulting from the crossing of two varieties, is now cultivated globally for its virtues. Moreover, what are the benefits of peppermint? Discover them in this article, and see how this plant can improve your well-being in a natural and effective way.
Learn more about peppermint
The origin of peppermint
Peppermint (Mentha × piperita) is a hybrid plant , resulting from the cross between water mint (Mentha aquatica) and spearmint (Mentha spicata).
Originally from Europe , it was first cultivated in England in the 17th century. Its aromatic and medicinal properties quickly made it known in other parts of the world. Today, peppermint is cultivated in many regions, with major producers located in the United States (especially in the states of Oregon, Washington and Idaho), Europe (Germany, Italy, France) and Asia (China, India). These regions offer the ideal climatic conditions for its cultivation, with well-drained soils and good exposure to the sun .
Recognizing peppermint
To recognize peppermint, here are some key points to help you.
The leaves are oval to lanceolate, with serrated edges, measuring between 4 and 9 cm long. The colour is dark green above and lighter below. They are sometimes tinged with purple. The stems are square in cross-section, typical of Lamiaceae, and often reddish or purple. The flowers, small and tubular, are pale purple to mauve and arranged in conical spikes at the top of the stems.
Finally, peppermint has a strong, fresh, and penetrating menthol scent , and the leaves have a very fresh, minty taste when chewed.
How to use peppermint?
Fresh leaves
Fresh peppermint leaves are commonly used in cooking to add a minty, refreshing flavor to dishes, salads, sauces, and desserts. They can also be used to prepare infusions and teas, which are particularly appreciated for their digestive and soothing properties.
Dried leaves
Dried peppermint leaves retain much of their aromatic and medicinal properties. They are often used to prepare infusions and teas, offering a practical and long-lasting solution to enjoy the benefits of peppermint. Dried leaves can also be used as a natural insect repellent when placed in sachets and placed in cupboards or drawers.
Essential oil
Peppermint essential oil is one of the most concentrated and versatile forms of this plant. It can be used in a number of ways:
- In aromatherapy to purify the atmosphere, improve concentration and reduce mental fatigue
- For local application , diluted in a base oil, to relieve muscle and joint pain, or on the temples and forehead to reduce headaches
- Inhaled to help decongest the respiratory tract
- In care products for its refreshing and soothing properties.
Peppermint extract
Peppermint extract is often used in cooking and in the manufacture of food products such as candy, chewing gum, ice cream, and some beverages. It offers a convenient way to add the characteristic flavor of peppermint without having to handle fresh or dried leaves.
Capsules
Peppermint essential oil capsules are a convenient form for medicinal uses, particularly for the treatment of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). They allow for precise and controlled delivery of the plant's active compounds.
Powder
Peppermint powder is less common but can be used as an ingredient in cosmetic formulations, food preparations, or home remedies. It retains some of the properties of the plant, although the concentration of active compounds may be lower than that of the essential oil.
The benefits of peppermint
Headache relief
- Analgesic and refreshing action : menthol, the main component of peppermint essential oil, has analgesic properties that help reduce pain. Applied locally to the temples and forehead, the essential oil provides a cooling sensation that can alleviate the pain of headaches.
- Vasodilatory effect : menthol improves blood circulation in the areas where it is applied, helping to relieve muscle tension and stress-related headaches.
Improved digestion
- Antispasmodic effect : Peppermint helps relax the smooth muscles of the digestive tract, thereby reducing abdominal spasms and cramps. This is particularly beneficial for people suffering from irritable bowel syndrome (IBS).
- Bile stimulation : It promotes the production of bile, thus improving the digestion of fats and facilitating the digestive process.
- Reduce Bloating and Gas : Peppermint teas are effective in relieving bloating and gas, providing digestive comfort after meals.
Anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties
- Anti-inflammatory : Peppermint essential oil has anti-inflammatory properties, useful for reducing internal and external inflammation.
- Antimicrobial : It is also effective against various types of bacteria and fungi. Used in oral hygiene products, it helps prevent mouth infections and freshen breath.
Relief of muscle and joint pain
- Local analgesic effect : When applied topically, peppermint essential oil can relieve muscle and joint pain. It is often used in massage (diluted in a base oil) to soothe pain related to conditions such as arthritis and muscle tension.
- Cooling and anti-inflammatory effect : Menthol provides a cooling sensation that can temporarily desensitize nerve endings and reduce the perception of pain.
Improved breathing
- Decongestant : Inhaling steam with peppermint essential oil helps to decongest the airways, which is particularly useful in cases of colds, sinusitis or allergies.
- Expectorant : it helps clear the respiratory tract by facilitating the elimination of mucus.
Mental stimulation
- Improved concentration : The aroma of peppermint has a stimulating effect on the central nervous system, helping to improve concentration and alertness.
- Reduced Mental Fatigue : Inhaling peppermint essential oil can help reduce feelings of mental fatigue, thereby increasing clarity and cognitive performance.
Cosmetic properties
- Skin Care : Peppermint is used in skin care products for its cooling and soothing effects. It can help calm irritation and itching.
- Hair care : In shampoos and conditioners, it stimulates the scalp and promotes a feeling of cleanliness and freshness.
Conclusion
In short, peppermint proves to be a valuable ally for daily well-being thanks to its benefits and multiple uses. Its refreshing aroma and medicinal properties make this plant a must-have in natural medicine as well as in cooking and cosmetics. By integrating peppermint into your routine, you can benefit from its virtues in a natural and effective way, thus contributing to a better quality of life.
