Peppermint

You may see lots of pumpkin flavored items in the fall, but during the winter a favorite flavor is peppermint!  

 

 

 

    

Peppermint mochas, peppermint bark, candy canes, peppermint brownies, peppermint M & M’s……….. And while all of the added sugar in some of these items isn’t exactly healthy, peppermint itself has been used for medicinal purposes for centuries.  Peppermint comes in different forms including leaves, oils, teas, extract and pills.  It’s also a common ingredient in many ointments. Below are some of the health benefits of peppermint.

• Treats Symptoms Of Irritable Bowel Syndrome – When used to treat irritable bowel syndrome, peppermint should be taken as enteric coated capsules, which can reduce side effects, such as heartburn.
• Helps Ease Tension Headaches – Studies have indicated peppermint oil may help reduce certain types of headaches, such as those caused by tension, according to American Family Physician. The peppermint oil should be massaged onto the temples or the forehead at the first sign of a tension headache.
• Reduces Bacteria Growth – According to Whole Foods, essential oil of peppermint acts as an anti-microbial and may reduce growth in various types of bacteria, such as methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli and Salmonella.
• Improves Breathing – Peppermint may help improve breathing in a few ways. It contains rosmarinic acid, which may help reduce chemicals which cause inflammation in asthma. Peppermint also contains menthol, which can help thin mucus and allow it to be coughed out of the lungs or drain from the nose more efficiently, which improves breathing. Menthol is also considered a decongestant and can help reduce nasal congestion.
• Minimizes Nausea – Drinking peppermint tea or sucking on a hard peppermint candy may help reduce nausea. The exact reason why peppermint can ease an upset stomach is not clear, but it may be partially due to the fact peppermint can help relax the smooth muscles of the intestines.
• Treats Indigestion – Indigestion is one the most common medical complaints experienced by most people at some point in their life. Although there are dozens of medications on the market to treat indigestion, taking peppermint may be a suitable alternative for some people. It is important to understand, peppermint may not work for everyone when treating indigestion, and in some people it can lead to heartburn.
• Soothes Skin Irritations – When applied directly to the skin, peppermint may help reduce certain types of skin irritations, such as rashes and hives. Peppermint oil or ointment containing peppermint can be applied to the skin to ease itching and discomfort. Although it will not speed-up healing of the skin, it reduces discomfort with its cooling effect.
• Stress Relief – As with many types of essential oils, peppermint can have a relaxing affect and help reduce stress. When used for stress reduction, place a few drops of peppermint essential oil into a burner and light. Relax in a quiet place or a warm bath, exhaling and inhaling the aroma slowly.
• Relieves Intestinal Gas – Peppermint may help reduce intestinal gas by relaxing the smooth muscles of the intestine. As the muscles relax, it may allow gas to pass and ease abdominal discomfort. When taken for gas relief, add peppermint extract or leafs to a cup of tea.
• May Reduce Muscle Pain – Peppermint can also be used to reduce mild pain. Menthol, which is one of the main components in peppermint, may reduce muscle spasm and pain when applied to the skin. Peppermint oil can be massaged into the sore muscle three times a day or add a few drops to a warm bath. An alternative to using peppermint oil is applying a muscle ointment, which lists peppermint as one of its ingredients.

So there you have it!  Here are some great reasons to eat those peppermint candies sitting around!  Just make sure it’s not too many!  J  And as with any treatment, make sure you consult your physician before you take peppermint for ailments.  Peppermint in high doses can cause other health problems!

 

Have a great weekend!!!