Whenever we need to add a dash of freshness to our food, mint is the best ingredient we can think of. Mint is widely used in different cuisines across the world for the unique flavor and aroma it offers. ‘Mint’ is the name for many different plant species, all belonging to the genus ‘Mentha’. Each of these varieties of mint features a slightly different taste – but the most commonly used is mint, which has a sweet lingering taste, whereas the second most common mint variety, peppermint, has a stronger, more menthol-like taste.
When we casually chop up those tiny mint leaves and add them to soups and salads, we don’t realize what we’re adding to our meals is actually a powerhouse of essential nutrients.
So let’s have a look at some of the top nutritional benefits mint offers – we’re sure you’d be left surprised!
Helps Alleviate Symptoms Of Digestive Ailments
Since ancient times, mint has been used as a natural remedy to treat different digestive ailments. Bloating? Gas? Stomach ache – mint has to be your go-to herb! The ‘menthol’ content in peppermint has a relaxing, cooling effect on the digestive tract, which helps reduce inflammation in the stomach.
Studies have also stated that peppermint oil consumption can help reduce Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS).
Gives You Glowing Radiant Skin
Mint has numerous benefits when consumed, but did you know the external application of mint also works wonders?
Mint is loaded with anti-bacterial and anti-inflammatory properties, making it a great ingredient to add to your skincare routine. Mint is rich in salicylic acid (the ingredient we commonly find in rejuvenating beauty serums these days). It helps to combat acne and reduce blemishes, scars, and uneven tone, leaving you with naturally glowing, radiant skin.
Helpful To Relieve Congestion Due To Common Cold
Catching a cold is pretty common, especially when we transition from one season to another. It comes with typical symptoms – cold, cough, and congestion in the throat, nose, and lungs.
If there’s one herb that helps you get rid of all these symptoms and feel better in no time, it is mint. The antibacterial properties in mint help our bodies fight off congestion and difficulty breathing. All you have to do is sip on a cup of warm mint tea – and you’d be fit as a fiddle in no time!
You can also consider adding fresh mint leaves or peppermint oil to your soups and consume it for faster recovery from common cold.
Perfect For Maintaining A Good Oral Health
The menthol in mint is what gives it its fresh aroma – and that’s precisely why you’d find many kinds of toothpaste with a mint base!
The freshness of mint, coupled with its antibacterial properties, helps reduce the presence of bacteria in our mouths. This, in turn, reduces the development of plaque in our teeth, keeping them healthy for a long time. Mint also beats bad breath and keeps our mouth odor-free for a long time.
Boosts Immune System
Looking for a natural immunity booster? Why fret when you have mint right here?
Mint is loaded with essential vitamins – A, C, D, and E. You’ll also find minerals such as calcium and phosphorus in these tiny leaves. All of these vitamins and minerals, when coupled together, work wonders to boost the immune system of our bodies.
Helps Reduce Chronic Inflammation In Our Bodies
Chronic inflammation, when left untreated, can result in the development of serious ailments such as arthritis, diabetes, and heart ailments.
To prevent our bodies from falling prey to the consequences of inflammation, it is advisable to include foods in our diet that can help combat inflammation at the initial stages itself. Mint is one such herb that you can include in your meals in any form – fresh, dried, or even mint oil.
Summing Up
Who even knew the humble mint had so much to offer? Well, now that you know, it’s time to add mint to your meals. And we’re sure we’ve given you ample reasons to plant mint in your kitchen garden too!
Salads, smoothies, teas, soups – mint goes well with them all. All you have to do is chop up those leaves and add them to your favorite foods to access the numerous health benefits in this herb.
