Did you know that peppermint was used since ancient times to treat heartburns? It was used by lactating mothers to help in breastfeeding. Peppermint is a naturally occurring plant that has many medicinal properties that could be exploited in a number of ways!

Peppermint also known as mint, menthe, Paparaminta, Menta piperita, is a herb that has a pleasant smell and wonderful aroma. It was originally used in Europe and Middle East as a medicinal plant used to treat cold and cough and also a flavouring agent in food.

Here are some of the benefits of natural peppermint that you need to know!

1. Skin irritation and pain

When applied topically on the skin, natural peppermint oil activates cold-sensitive receptors in the skin and mucosal tissues and causes a cooling sensation. In the meantime, it actually increases the heat reaction in the particular spot on the skin and hence relieves pain as well. For this reason, peppermint oil is commonly used in pain relief ointments and gels.

2. Cold and cough

Peppermint is used to treat cold, cough and other problems of the respiratory tract such as fluid congestion. It is effective in relieving sinus blocks and has been used since centuries as an over-the-counter medication to treat common cold.

3. Tooth ache and bad breath

Research has proven that peppermint is capable of preventing dental decay. Also when chewed for about three minutes along with tea tree oil, it has proven to be effective in removing bad breath and making the mouth smell better. For this reason, it can also be used as a household mouth freshener.

4. Inflammation in the mouth

Peppermint has been used to treat inflammation in the mouth and irritation effectively. It helps to heal wounds in the mouth and can be used to treat inflammation and irritation in the mouth. If you are sensing discomfort or swelling in your mouth, try chewing some peppermint leaves for about two minutes. It should help.

5. Nausea and vomiting

Peppermint has been used since olden times to treat nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, bloating, flatulence and irritable bowel. It is used in aromatherapy to treat these symptoms.

Taking peppermint tea could be a wonderful way to get over morning sickness.

6. Heartburn

Heartburn is a common concern that causes discomfort and burning sensation in the chest area. Many of us commonly complain of heartburns and we sometimes even take medication. Little have we noted that peppermint is a natural and easy cure for heartburns!

Peppermint oil has been noted to reduce stomach spasms and the feeling of fullness.  When taken along with chamomile, lemon balm and liquorice, peppermint has been proven to improve all associated symptoms including acid reflux, stomach pain, stomach cramping, and nausea and vomiting.

7. Migraine

Peppermint has been proven to be effective in relieve migraine pain. Chewing on peppermint half an hour before and after migraine headaches seems to alleviate severe pain. Peppermint oil application can also help relieve common headaches.

8. Breastfeeding discomfort

Studies indicate that peppermint oil helps relieve discomfort sensed during breast feeding. In fact, a research study has proven that applying peppermint oil to nipples after breastfeeding actually helps prevent cracking of skin and nipples while reducing pain. This has been in use from olden days when household mothers used to apply peppermint oil on their skin.

9. Pre- and post-surgery discomfort

Often, many people sense discomfort before surgery and there are irregularities in breathing pattern sometimes accompanied by nausea. Peppermint helps to eliminate nausea simply by inhaling vapours. Similarly, in those who have undergone surgery and there is irregular bowel movement or a feeling of heartburn, peppermint inhalation or consumption helps alleviate these symptoms easily.

10. Anti-bacterial and anti-parasitic

Peppermint’s antibacterial nature makes it ideal to be taken to prevent bacterial infections in the stomach and intestines. Peppermint is also a natural pesticide that is used to keep insects and moths away. You can store some peppermint balls in your dress shelves and in your house to prevent infestation due to insects. At the same time, it helps to effectively prevent parasitic attack on you while leaving a pleasant smell on you.

These are ten solid reasons for you to have a small peppermint plant at home, a quick remedy for a number of conditions that also adds flavour all around you!

To know more about peppermint and its uses, click here.