We used to think that mint only serves to give freshness to the mouth, as it is commonly used in toothpastes and chewing gums. But mint also has medicinal properties, as it contains many antioxidants, menthol, terpenoids, rutin, flavonoids and other substances that actively fight free radicals in cells, hypertension, depression and even asthma.
Digestive system problems
The phytonutrients, antioxidants, menthol, and methyl salicylate in peppermint are capable of:
- activate the work of the salivary glands, which facilitates the digestion process;
- calm the walls of the stomach, prevent cramps;
- improve the production of enzymes.
Recipe for constipation with mint:
- Prepare mint oil: pour fresh leaves, put them in a jar, pour in olive oil, screw on the lid and put in a dark place for a day. Then strain through cheesecloth and the mint oil is ready.
- Mix 3 drops of peppermint oil, 7 drops of rosemary oil, 5 drops of lemon oil and 25 ml of grape seed oil.
- Rub the resulting oil mixture into the abdomen with massage movements every 2 hours until the problem is eliminated.
For heartburn and indigestion:
- Mix 2 drops of peppermint oil with 1 tsp. coconut oil.
- Massage the upper abdomen in a circular motion until completely absorbed.
- Repeat the procedure every 2-3 hours.
From flatulence and dyspepsia: mix 2-3 drops of peppermint oil with 1 tsp. olive oil and massage the lower abdomen. If necessary, repeat the procedure after a couple of hours.
Migraine relief
Migraine can occur due to stress, overexertion, chronic lack of sleep or vasospasm. Mint, prepared according to the following recipe, will help to overcome the headache:
- Pour half a glass of crushed dried mint leaves with 500 ml of jojoba or Alexandrian laurel oil.
- Close the container with a lid and insist in a lighted place for 3 weeks, shaking the mixture daily.
- Strain the finished oil mixture through cheesecloth folded in half, and rub 2 drops into the temples, neck and forehead 5 times a day until the pain stops.
Help relieve pressure
Menthol, contained in mint, is able to have an expanding effect on blood vessels, thereby improving blood circulation and stabilizing blood pressure.
To combat hypertension are suitable:
- Warm baths with 4 drops of peppermint oil.
- Aromatherapy with 10-15 drops of peppermint oil.
- Massage with a mixture of peppermint, fir, lavender and oregano oils mixed in equal parts. Gently rub the mixture on the neck, back and chest area once a week. The minimum course is 5 sessions.
Fight fatigue
Peppermint can also help relieve stress and fight accumulated fatigue.
The main way to relax is to take a hot bath with 3-4 drops of peppermint oil.
Feet fatigue can be relieved using this recipe:
- Grind 100 g of fresh or dried mint leaves and pour 3 liters of boiling water.
- Close the container with a lid, leave for 30 minutes, and then strain through cheesecloth.
- Pour the mint infusion into a small bowl, put your feet there and sit for 20 minutes.
Skin cleansing
Because peppermint contains antioxidants and vitamin A, it can help treat skin problems and cleanse it safely.
Scrub recipe:
- ¼ Art. mint leaves and ½ tbsp. grind oatmeal in a blender.
- Transfer the mixture to a screwed glass container so that it can be stored in a cool, dark place.
- Before use, take a small part of the mixture, dilute slightly with water
- Massage the mixture into the skin for a few minutes to completely remove dead skin cells.
Steam bath for face:
- Take 10 g of mint and linden leaves, 20 g of oak bark, 15 g of chamomile flowers.
- Put the plants in a saucepan and pour 1 liter of boiling water over them.
- Put on fire and bring to a boil again.
- Cool slightly, pour into a wide bowl, put a towel over your head and hold your face over the steam for about 5 minutes.
As a result, the pores will be cleansed and the face will be refreshed.
Acne Recipe:
- Mix 1 drop of peppermint oil, 1 drop of eucalyptus oil and 8 drops of water.
- Dip a cotton ball into the mixture and apply on pimples, avoiding the area around the eyes.
- Leave overnight for best effect.
Reducing asthma
Peppermint helps to ease breathing in case of colds, as it has a beneficial effect on the lungs. Its leaves are rich in rosemary acid, which has a strong antioxidant effect, fights against toxins and allergens entering the bronchi, thereby reducing the manifestations of asthma.
Recipe for peppermint inhalation solution:
- Take in a 1 to 1 ratio of mint, thyme, oregano, hyssop, marshmallow, elecampane, coltsfoot and licorice root, mix.
- 1 tbsp. Pour a spoonful of the mixture into a ladle, pour boiling water over and boil for 5 minutes over low heat.
- Remove from the stove, cover and leave for 1 hour.
Oral care
Mint is often found in toothpaste, which has a refreshing effect. You can also remove bad breath by chewing on a fresh mint leaf. It not only refreshes, but also has an anti-inflammatory effect on the gums.
For oral cavity care, you can prepare products according to the following recipes:
- Grind the mint by mixing it with hydrogen peroxide and baking soda 1 to 1. This paste will perfectly whiten your teeth and freshen your breath, but it can be done no more than once a week, as it strongly corrodes enamel.
- Add 2 drops of peppermint oil to a serving of toothpaste and brush your teeth. This will freshen your breath well and produce an anti-caries effect.
- Take a 0.5 ml bottle, pour water, add 5 drops of peppermint oil and tea tree extract, mix and rinse your mouth after eating.
It is not difficult to grow mint, since it does not require special care, and you can propagate it by simply cutting off a twig and sticking it into the ground.
