Mint is a perennial and spontaneous plant, easily recognized for its fresh flavor and aroma and appreciated for centuries for its medicinal properties.
The various species of the Mentha genus are used not only in cooking, but on a large scale in the pharmaceutical and cosmetic industries. Several scientific studies have been carried out in recent times to understand the effect that mint and some of its components can have on our body and how we can use this knowledge to improve our health and well-being.
These are some of the properties that have been attributed to mints:
Antioxidant
Plants of the Mentha genus are rich in phenolic compounds, ascorbic acid and carotenoids that contain high levels of antioxidants, which can delay or inhibit the oxidation of different molecules in our body.
Digestion
Some studies have already shown that menthol, a compound found in mint leaves, relaxes the muscles of the digestive tract, reduces symptoms of indigestion, gas and bloating, and relieves symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome. (Rahimi et al., 2018).
Oral Hygiene
Mint's natural antimicrobial properties make it a valuable ally in maintaining oral health and hygiene. Toothpastes and mouthwashes that have it in their composition freshen breath and fight oral bacteria, and can help prevent cavities, gum disease and halitosis.
Respiratory System
One of the components of mint, menthol, acts as a natural decongestant, being indicated in situations of nasal congestion, cough, sinusitis and used in the form of a nasal spray, balm and in syrups.
Nervous system
Studies suggest that inhaling the aroma of peppermint essential oil can help reduce feelings of anxiety and promote a sense of calm (Moss et al., 2010).
Cosmetics
Mint's natural cooling and anti-inflammatory properties make it a popular ingredient in skin care products. Applied topically incorporated into creams and lotions, it can help soothe irritated skin, reduce redness and combat acne and its fresh sensation also provides instant relief from sunburn and insect bites.
Curiosities
Some components extracted from mint, namely menthone, citronellal and eugenol, have cytotoxic activity and have shown promising results in the treatment of some types of cancer. Mint therefore has numerous health benefits and can be found in our Mint, Elderflower and Lemon Infusion.
References:
Moss, M., Hewitt, S., Moss, L., Wesnes, K. (2010). "Modulation of Cognitive Performance and Mood by Aromas of Peppermint and Ylang-Ylang." International Journal of Neuroscience, 118(1), 59–77.
Rahimi, R., Abdollahi, M. (2018). "Herbal Medicines for the Management of Irritable Bowel Syndrome: A Comprehensive Review." World Journal of Gastroenterology, 24(41), 4722–4737.
Tafrihi, M. et al, "The Wonderful Activities of the Genus Mentha: Not Only Antioxidant Properties” consultado a 15/04/2024, https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7923432/
Yassin M.T., Mostafa A.A., Al-Askar A.A. Anticandidal and anti-carcinogenic activities of Mentha longifolia (Wild Mint) extracts in vitro. J. King Saud Univ.-Sci. 2020;32:2046–2052.