Who doesn’t love Peppermint, especially this time of year?
The smooth cool bursting flavor is so refreshing and the benefits far exceed the taste! Some of the properties found in peppermint helps to relax muscle tissue which aids and relieves upset stomachs and other digestive conditions.
Mostly everyone loves the scent of peppermint and this time of year with tons of stuffy noses, it helps open up the airways for easier breathing. Not to mention the scent of garlic on your breath from last night’s dinner, get close to your loved ones with the help of some peppermint tea!
In pill form, or tea, the healing properties of peppermint are tremendous and nutritious. Peppermint provides a very good source of dietary fiber, folate, iron, magnesium, and calcium. Its low calorie status qualifies peppermint as a good source of omega-3 fatty acids too!
There are 25 variations of mint. Mint’s characteristic smell has made it one of the more popular perfuming herbs throughout history. It has also played an important role in the American tradition, while the Native Americans were using mint even before the arrival of the European settlers. This prized herb has long been honored for its therapeutic properties throughout the world.
Studies show that patients who took peppermint oil capsules for four weeks had a major reduction in irritable bowel syndrome. Peppermint also relaxes the gastro-esophageal sphincter, thus promoting belching. Restaurants usually take advantage of this effect by taking serving what we all know as the 'after-dinner mint.'
You can buy fresh mint to use as tea, chop up in salads, season food, chew a leaf….it makes a fragrant and festival plant to have around the house during the holiday season too, and you can continue to grow indoors year round. Soak some in water and add to your bath!
Enjoy the benefits….freshen up and live it up, with delicious peppermint!
