9 Reasons to Use Mint to Boost Your Health
There's more to the benefits of mint than
fresh breath and clean teeth. And while it can also be used to flavor
salads, savory dishes, desserts and bowls of fruit, the properties of
mint far exceed what we normally use this herb for. In fact, this
aromatic herb can be used to soothe many bodily ailments from nausea to
nasal congestion.
1. Soothes Nausea
Whenever you are feeling nauseous, chew on some mint. Its powerful smell
can alleviate stomachaches and sooth headaches. To reap the benefits,
crush up and chew on some mint leaves, smell a mint-flavored product,
chew on some mint flavored gum or apply essential oil where needed.
2. Clears up Congestion
Mint contains menthol, which helps clear the sinus cavities. It also
contains an anti-inflammatory agent, rosmarinic acid, which helps fight
allergy symptoms. To clear your sinuses, drink peppermint tea or inhale
the aroma of peppermint.
3. Prevents Acne
Mint also contains vitamin A, which helps control excessive oil
production. The antioxidants found in mint will help keep your skin
healthy, clear and free from bacteria. You can apply mint to the skin
topically, either as a paste or combined with other skin-boosting
ingredients like cucumber or lemon juice.
4. Improves Oral Hygiene
One of mint's well-known benefits lies in its ability to fight germs and
mask smells. Opt for a toothpaste that contains mint and you can also
swill a little bit of peppermint or spearmint oil (combined with water)
in your mouth, killing any bacteria and leaving your breath incredibly
fresh.
5. Provides Powerful Antioxidants
In comparison to other food, mint ranks pretty high in terms of
antioxidant properties. Antioxidants help destroy free radicals that can
develop a host of illnesses if left untreated. Ingesting mint can,
therefore, be rather beneficial for your health. Mint can be safely
ingested in many ways. Add it to your water, teas or use it to flavor
your food.
6. Aids Digestion
For a healthy digestive process, eating or smelling mint is enough to
activate the salivary glands in your mouth. Eat mint before or during a
big meal to cleanse the palette and prepare the body for digestion later
on.
7. Reduces the Effects of Breastfeeding
Very often, women can suffer from mild skin
damage during breastfeeding - this can include chapping, cracking or
pain around the nipples. Alleviate the symptoms by rubbing some mint oil
(combined with a carrier oil, such as olive oil) around the area to
soothe the pain. Its anti-inflammatory properties can also heal the
damage.
8. Promotes Weight Loss
The digestive enzymes found in mint can promote a more consistent,
properly functioning metabolism, which in turn can lead to weight loss
and an overall healthier physique.
9. Boosts Mood and Fatigue
Mint is a stimulant that can help recharge brain function. The menthol
found in mint is also known to have a calming, soothing effect on the
body and mind. To reap the benefits, take sips of mint tea or inhale its
scent to help you feel calm and less agitated.