Medicinal plant Méntha piperíta (peppermint): benefit and harm of grass

In the autumn period, active collection of peppermint begins in the southern regions. Widely popular unpretentious culture was more than 250 years ago. The medicinal properties of the plant are highly appreciated by eastern and western medicine. In the 21st century, the benefits of green leaves with purple stems are not forgotten.

Mint pepper is used on a large scale in the food, pharmaceutical and cosmetic industries. The use and harm of a unique plant for ordinary inhabitants remains a mystery. Our article will help you to find out this important information.

What kind of natural miracle?

Many beautiful legends and myths are associated with this plant, as evidenced by the ancient chronicles. Repeatedly the properties of mint were mentioned in the Bible. The ancient Egyptians used it for embalming. In the world there are more than a hundred species of wild grass. But for cultural cultivation, about 35 species are recognized as valuable, including peppermint (photo is presented in the material).

It was brought out by an artificial method - by crossing the spear and water mint. The phenomenon of global popularity of a plant lies in its components. Essential oil found in the grass contains a valuable substance - menthol. It gives a cooling bitter taste and has an anti-inflammatory effect.

Found in the composition and flavonoids, improving permeability and elasticity of blood vessels, as well as possessing antioxidant and anticarcinogenic action. Due to the presence of resinous and tannic substances, the plant is attributed astringent properties. The leaves are rich in organic acids, which have a toning, immunomodulating and spasmolytic effect.

The leaves are added to dishes and drinks, and they also make medicinal infusions and broths that help to improve the functioning of the nervous and digestive system. Well, finally, the grass is a source of essential minerals and vitamins.

Medical purpose

Peppermint, the benefit and harm of which is well studied by specialists, is used in a variety of therapeutic fields. It is added to ointments and creams, which are indicated for the removal of pain and migraine. Drugs relieve dermatological diseases. Multiple studies, conducted for more than a decade, have shown that the herb shows anti-cancer effects.

The experiments were performed on animals, the result was stunning - peppermint stops the development of malignant tumors and improves the general condition. American scientists attribute the plant also a calming effect. It is proved that regular use of mint tea improves digestion, prevents flatulence, swelling, heaviness and pain in the stomach.

According to experts, essential oil has mucolytic properties: dilutes sputum and removes mucus. Rubbing it into the chest, you can quickly cough and relieve the pain in the throat. Hot drinks favorably affect the pressure, normalizing it, improve blood flow and metabolic processes. Tea strengthens the immune system and regulates the menstrual cycle.

In addition, mint leaves are well toned and refreshed. And thanks to low calorie, this drink can be consumed during a diet. Psychotherapists advise to use oil in aromatherapy. Fragrant steams strengthen memory, promote concentration of attention. Positive effect on the psychoemotional state of peppermint.

Benefits and Harms for Men: Effects on the Body

Male part of the population mint brings the same benefits as women. True, there is an opinion that its use contributes to a decrease in potency, causes a violation of reproductive function. What can I say to this? In all things a sense of proportion is important. This applies to the use of infusions, decoctions and preparations containing peppermint. In order not to get a negative result, do not increase the dose. In general, peppermint is beneficial for men's health. The benefits and harms of it, like any plant, depend on the correct application.

Use in cosmetology

According to many experts, the herb has softening and moisturizing properties. Without the use of chemicals, the appearance can be improved. To strengthen hair and get rid of dandruff, add to the shampoo for five drops of essential oil.

Pull and moisturize the skin will help scrub. Method of preparation: mix coconut and mint oil with sugar. They can rub their feet. For those who suffer from problem skin, we recommend buying lotions based on grass. Calm, relieve rashes and excessive fatty peppermint. The grass has an antibacterial effect, it kills pathogenic bacteria and cleanses the face.

In the absence of super fashionable anti-aging agents, our ancestors used this plant. We offer to prepare a rejuvenating mask: mix fresh mint leaves (a large spoon), dried chamomile (5 g), beaten egg and a spoonful of honey. Apply to the face for 15 minutes.

Restrictions in use

Menthol, contained in mint, negatively affects the amount of breast milk - reduces lactation. Abandon the use of the plant following during pregnancy. Do not give tea and children under five. In small doses hypotonic peppermint is prescribed.

Harm directly depends on the number and frequency of use. It is undesirable, as mentioned above, to abuse mint drinks to men, because the components contained in them will negatively affect the production of testosterone.

How to brew?

Prepare the tea only in glass or ceramic. You can use both dried and fresh leaves. Three hundred grams of boiling water will require two large spoons of grass. It should be given a liquid to infuse for five minutes.

Perfectly combines peppermint, a photo of which can be seen in the material, with black tea. This is done simply - put a couple of leaves of grass in the tea leaves. To improve the taste, add lemon and honey. Drinks normalize digestion and improve peristalsis.

Medicinal infusion for violations of the digestive tract

From the next collection - 15 g of mint, 60 g of St. John's wort and 2 g of shamrock water - take two spoons of the mixture and brew a glass of boiling water. To keep in a thermos two hours, to drink during the day.

As we found out, the peppermint has unique properties. The benefits and harms of plants are not equal. But be careful and prudent when using it.