There are 13 – 18 varieties of mint, also known as Mentha. It has a refreshing and strong taste and smell. Due to its cooling effects, mint is used in cosmetic products, such as ointments, mouthwashes, bubble baths, toothpaste, and so on. Moreover, mint is also added to culinary recipes because it gives meals a specific flavor.
12 Health benefits of mint
Mint has numerous health benefits. Some of the most common are given below.
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Mint promotes digestive processes
Mint can treat indigestion. Due to its high content of phytonutrients and antioxidants, mint can relieve stomach pain and prevent spasms.
The refreshing smell of mint promotes the work of salivary glands, which produce digestive enzymes and enhance digestion. Consume a cup of mint tea after each meal to prevent gastrointestinal issues.
2. Mint soothes headaches
If you suffer from headaches and migraines, you should consume mint on a regular basis. The strong and refreshing smell of mint calms down the nervous system and relieves the pain.
Also, you can rub mint leaves on your nose or forehead to treat headaches.
3. Mint prevents hiccups
Drinking mint water can stop hiccups. According to studies, menthol found in mint can promptly stop hiccups.
4. Mint promotes breastfeeding
Mint leaves or mint tea can address issues with breastfeeding, such as pain, tenderness, and discomfort in nipples and breasts.
5. Mint improves memory
Mint can improve memory and thinking. Also, mint tea can treat forgetfulness if you consume it on a regular basis.
6. Mint treats cough and respiratory issues
The strong smell of mint can treat breathing difficulties and relieve common cold and cough. You can rub mint leaves or apply a mint cream on the chest to treat cough. In addition, consuming mint tea or inhaling mint tea steam can help you alleviate breathing issues.
7. Mint aids in weight loss
As mint can promote the release of digestive enzymes and stimulate digestive processes, it can also aid in weight loss. Add mint to your diet and transform fat deposits into energy.
8. Mint boosts the immune system
Due to its high content of healthy nutrients, such as calcium, phosphorus, vitamin C, vitamin D, vitamin B, and vitamin E, mint can boost the immune system and fight against common cold and infections.
9. Mint treats cancer
According to studies, mint has beneficial effects on cancer patients, especially on skin, liver, lung, and colon cancer. Due to its content of phytochemicals, mint can hinder blood supply that leads to tumor growth.
10. Mint treats asthma
Studies show that mint leaves are very beneficial for relieving the symptoms of asthma. Mint contains rosmarinic acid, which prevents allergy-stimulating leukotrienes.
11. Mint improves mood
Smelling mint leaves can refresh and energize your body. Moreover, mint leaves can relieve anxiety and stress because they stimulate the production of serotonin.
12. Mint enhances oral health
Due to its anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties, mint leaves can kill bacteria in the mouth and enhance the health of the oral cavity.
All you need to do is to rub mint leaves on your gums and teeth and let it stay for a few minutes.
Here is how to grow mint at home
It is easy to grow mint. Its root system is specific because it grows new leaves that can be planted along with their roots.
Mint leaves should be planted in different pots because when they grow, they take plenty of space. You can grow mint from a mint leaf or mint seeds. Plant a mint leaf in a 12 – 16 inches wide container and add potting soil. Place the container in a sunny spot and water it regularly.
