Dried Mint Leaves

Mint

Botanical name: Mentha

Mentha also known as Mint or pudina is a genus of flowering plants in the family lamiaceae. The name is derived from the Greek word 'mentha'. Mints are aromatic, almost exclusively perennial, rarely annual, herbs. It is mainly known for its distinct aroma. Presence of menthol gives mint its characteristic flavor. With its different aroma, pleasing flavor, cool sensation and medicinal qualities, mint is among the most resourceful plants in the herbal kingdom.

Benefits and uses:

Mint was originally used as a medicinal herb to treat stomach ache and chest pains, and it is commonly used in the form of tea as a home remedy to help alleviate stomach pain. The menthol in peppermint soothes the lining of the digestive tract and stimulates the production of bile, which is an essential digestive fluid.

Plant pacifies vitiated kapha, vata, amennorrhoea, dysmenorrhea, dental caries, jaundice and urinary retention. It is rich in many chemicals, vitamins and minerals such as Niacin, Carotene, Folic Acid, Thiamine, Riboflavin, Magnesium, Calcium, Phosphorus, Iron, Magnesium, Copper, Manganese, and Zinc and so on.

The plant possesses carminative, antibacterial, antifibrile, a stimulative, stomachic, diaphoretic and antispasmodic property that enhances the medicinal value of pudina to a large extent. Decoction of mint leaves relieves from any worm infestation. Application of its oil on skin helps in reducing blemishes on the skin. The leaves are helpful in stimulating menstruation in those suffering from dysmenorrhea. The strong, sharp flavor and scent of mint is used as a mild decongestant for illnesses such as the common cold.

Mint oil and menthol extracted used as flavoring agents in balm, mouthwashes, mouth fresheners, toothpastes, chewing gums and aromatic oils. It is widely used in the kitchen, being used all over the world as flavoring as well as key ingredients to foods and drinks.