Peppermint

Part of the plant used for medicinal purposes: leaves (Menthae piperitae folium)

Description and harvesting

Peppermint is a perennial plant growing up to 80 cm tall. It is cultivated in gardens, although it also grows naturally in more humid areas. It blooms from June to August; inflorescences are spike-like and lilac-coloured. The entire flower has a distinctive fragrance. Leaves are picked before flowering and never in a bad weather because they quickly turn brown and lose their healing properties. The entire plant can also be picked. Peppermint appears in several types: black, curly, water, all of which have healing properties.

Constituents and medicinal use

Peppermint displays anaesthetic properties – it has a cooling effect if chewed. Peppermint tea relaxes and strengthens the nerves. It promotes the secretion of bile, urine and gastric juices. It is an effective remedy in case of vomiting. It is used as antiseptic for colds and is also beneficial for people with sedentary lifestyles. Peppermint tea, mixed with apple vinegar, is effective for bad breath. The same mixture is used in case of inflamed gums, wounded tongue, toothache and as a mouthwash. Attention! The tea is not to be overconsumed because it could have a negative effect on the heart. Peppermint is added to various tea blends. Add up to 5 drops of peppermint oil, which can be purchased in pharmacies, to sugar as a quick remedy for light-headedness, migraine, motion sickness, and headache. Peppermint is invigorating and as such it is useful for convalescents and weak children, especially after severe illnesses. It soothes pain and improves liver and pancreatic function. Prepare a peppermint bath to freshen up after strenuous work.

Monk Simon Ašič’s product containing peppermint leaves:

Sources:

1. Domača lekarna patra Simona Ašiča. Priročnik za nabiranje zdravilnih rastlin. Celjska Mohorjeva družba.
2. Domača lekarna patra Simona Ašiča. Recepti. Celjska Mohorjeva družba.

Product containing peppermint leaves: