The Power of Peppermint
LISA GRENTZ, MS, RDN, CD/LDN, FAND
The herb peppermint is a hybrid of watermint and spearmint. Its signature minty aroma and refreshing taste are derived from the plant compound menthol, which is one of the essential oils found in peppermint leaves.
Peppermint is typically available in 3 forms: tea, oil, and extract. Peppermint tea is a delicious beverage made from fresh or dried leaves infused into a cup of hot or boiling water. Peppermint oil is the essential oil extracted from the peppermint plant that is often used in aromatherapy, while peppermint extract is peppermint oil diluted with alcohol. Both peppermint oil (food-grade) and extract can be used to add flavor to foods and beverages.
There are many wellness benefits associated with peppermint. Some of these benefits include:
Improved digestion – peppermint can relax the muscles in your digestive system thereby reducing abdominal spasms, pain, gas, and bloating
Reduced headaches – applying peppermint oil* to the forehead and temples helps relax the muscles and lessens headache pain
Better breath – peppermint is commonly used to flavor toothpaste and mouthwash because the antimicrobial properties help kill germs that lead to bad breath
Support respiratory system – the compound menthol* can relieve airway congestion and sinus pressure
Relieve mental fatigue while enhancing mood, focus, and concentration
*Please note that peppermint essential oil is not recommended for children under the age of 3, and with caution and proper dilution for those above 3 years.
This winter, if you’re looking to up your wellness game, try incorporating some peppermint tea into your diet. This herbal tea is caffeine-free, making it an optimal choice for any time of the day. The natural compounds found in these tea leaves can impact the digestive, respiratory, and circulatory systems, making this warm beverage a soothing choice during colds, flu, indigestion, nausea, headache, and sinus congestion.
Peppermint Tea
Makes: 1 cup
1 cup water
Peppermint tea bag, loose-leaf tea, or fresh leaves
Instructions
Bring water to a boil. Pour over a peppermint tea bag in your favorite mug or loose-leaf tea or leaves in an infuser, cover, and steep for 5 minutes. Remove tea bag or infuser and serve tea hot or cold.