What is peppermint and what are its properties?
Peppermint(Mentha × piperita) is an aromatic plant renowned for its digestive, antispasmodic and refreshing properties. Thanks to its high menthol content, it provides a sensation of intense freshness and has soothing properties for the body.
Main properties :
- Aids digestion: Stimulates bile production and helps relieve bloating, intestinal gas and indigestion.
- Soothes pain: its antispasmodic effect relaxes muscles and relieves abdominal cramps.
- Antiseptic and antiviral action: helps fight infections thanks to active ingredients such as menthol and menthone.
- Stimulates concentration: its powerful aroma energizes the mind and improves alertness.
How can peppermint be used to aid digestion?
Peppermint is one of the best natural remedies for digestive disorders. It can be used in several ways:
- As an infusion: One cup after a meal helps digestion and reduces bloating.
- As an essential oil: One drop diluted in a spoonful of vegetable oil helps soothe intestinal spasms.
- Capsules: This practical format offers an optimal concentration of active ingredients.
- As a hydrolate: Use diluted in water for a refreshing, digestive effect.
What are the benefits of peppermint essential oil?
Peppermint essential oil is a valuable aromatherapy ally thanks to its broad spectrum of action:
- Relief of nausea and motion sickness: One drop on a handkerchief to inhale or applied to the wrists quickly soothes.
- Muscle pain and headaches: Applied locally, diluted in a vegetable oil, it provides an immediate analgesic and refreshing effect.
- Improved breathing: its decongestant action clears the respiratory tract in the event of colds or allergies.
- Energizing effect: Helps combat physical and mental fatigue.
Does peppermint help with weight loss?
Thanks to its stimulating effect on digestion and natural appetite-suppressant properties, peppermint can be an interesting slimming ally. In infusion or inhalation, it reduces cravings and promotes better assimilation of nutrients. Its thermogenic effect also stimulates metabolism, facilitating fat elimination.
What are the dangers and contraindications of peppermint?
Although peppermint is a plant with many benefits, it does have certain contraindications:
- Not recommended for pregnant and breast-feeding women, due to its hormonal action.
- Not recommended for young children (under 6), as it can cause respiratory spasms.
- May interact with certain treatments (antacids, anticoagulants, etc.).
- Irritating in large doses: essential oil should never be applied pure to the skin or ingested in large quantities.
Where to buy quality peppermint?
To reap all its benefits, it's essential to opt for organic, pharmaceutical-quality peppermint. You can find it in a variety of forms in pharmacies, herbalists and stores specializing in phytotherapy. Always check the product's origin and composition to guarantee its effectiveness.
