Latin name: Mentha x piperita
Chinese name: bo he
Other name: brandy mint
What is Peppermint?
Peppermint is a perennial plant indigenous to Europe that is cultivated worldwide. It is a hybrid between watermint and spearmint. Archaeological findings suggest that peppermint was used 10,000 years ago, though it was only officially recognized as its own species in the seventeenth century. Much of its use centers on its cultivation as an oil. The plant is used to flavor tea, ice cream, candy, gum, and toothpaste; it is as also often a component of shampoos and soaps.
What are the health benefits of Peppermint?
When used medicinally, peppermint—along with other species belonging to the Mentha genus—is considered one of the most versatile herbs in existence. Peppermint is used as a tonic for liver and digestive conditions including liver congestion, upset digestion, nausea, irritable bowel syndrome, bad breath, and colicky abdominal pain. Peppermint is also used for its effect on the respiratory system including treatment of cough, bronchitis, cold, flu, and sinus problems. Additionally, peppermint is used to act as a muscle relaxant, to support a healthy immune system, and to treat arthritis, yeast overgrowth, migraines, gum disease, and an imbalance of the nervous system.
Where can I find Peppermint?
Peppermint can be found online, in herbal specialty shops, at health food stores, and in assorted markets.
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