Peppermint is a relative of numerous wild mint plants, deliberately bred in the late 1600s in England to become the delightful tasting plant so well known today. It is widely used as a beverage tea and as a flavouring or scent in a wide variety of products.
Did you know: Peppermint has a twist?
Peppermint (Mentha Piperita) has long been used as a digestive aid? Its extracted oil can be used topically or ingested to assist with a number of conditions. Taken internally it can ease gas, bloating and abdominal cramps. Applied topically, it can lower fevers and act as an expectorant for congestive colds. Used in either way it can ease nausea and headaches. Taken several times a day it can be effective in assisting with irritable bowel syndrome.
Peppermint tea also has a long history of medicinal use, primarily as a digestive aid and for the symptomatic treatment of cough, colds, and fever. Peppermint oil is used for chest congestion (like Vicks VapoRub), and most recently in the treatment of irritable bowel disease, also known as spastic colon.
A popular flavouring in gums, candies, medicines, and many other products, peppermint oil is valuable in nutrition.
What you can do with Peppermint and Peppermint Oil:
· Chew peppermint flavoured gum, eat peppermint flavoured candies to aid your digestion. Chewing gum stimulates saliva, which is also good for fighting plaque on your teeth.
· Place a drop of peppermint oil on the tongue to freshen breath
· Add a couple drops to a glass of water for a refreshing after-meal drink and digestive aid
Maybe all this has got you thinking those peppermint candy canes aren't so bad after all! I know I certainly never believed peppermint was that great, and now I won’t be feeling guilty when I gobble up a few this Christmas!
Amanda
Last updated: 30/04/2008
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Peppermint is a relative of numerous wild mint plants, deliberately bred in the late 1600s in England to become the delightful tasting plant so well known today. It is widely used as a beverage tea and as a flavouring or scent in a wide variety of products.