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Peppermint has been used in medicine for hundreds of years because it contains some of the essential vitamins and minerals like iron, vitamin A, and potassium. One of the most important benefits of this plant is its ability to boost digestion. Just by smelling the plant, salivary glands activate and produce enzymes that improve digestion. Strong aroma and taste of the peppermint tea can help you if you suffer from nausea as well.
If you have a headache, you should use a crème, gel, or oil based on this plant due to its anti-inflammatory properties which will get you back to normal in no time. Its aroma is also excellent in treating cold or flu symptoms since it cools down inflamed nasal passages while helping ease cough and breathing.
Lotion based on peppermint is great for facial cleansing; it relieves irritation and prevents the creation of acne. It is the main ingredient in numerous oral hygiene products because it strengthens gums and prevents accumulation of bad bacteria on teeth. Here are few of our favorite examples of how to include this amazing plant in your everyday diet.
Peppermint tea
First and most obvious is the peppermint tea. It is very easy to make and you’ll be able to take advantage of numerous benefits this plant provides. You can buy it at pretty much any store, but the best tea you can make is from fresh peppermint leaves. If you have trouble getting fresh peppermint leaves, you can grow it yourself. It is very easy and it practically requires no maintenance.
Green smoothie
You can also make a delicious smoothie with a help of this amazing plant. All you need is half of the avocado, a handful of kale and spinach, a piece of cucumber, five sticks of freshly picked peppermint, piece of freshly cleaned ginger, and some coconut water. Mix everything together while slowly adding coconut water. Drink it while it’s fresh to get most out of it, not just from peppermint, but from other healthy ingredients as well.
Peppermint pea soup
Cut up some freshly picked scallions and put it in the pot together with small cut up kohlrabi and a crushed clove of garlic. Add some vegetable bouillon and let it simmer on low heat for about 15 minutes. Add 250g of frozen peas and let it cook for another five minutes. Add four tablespoons of freshly cut up peppermint and some lime juice. Blend everything together until you get unified mixture. Decorate with peppermint leaves and serve.
As an addition to salads
Since it is a very versatile plant, you can add it to pretty much any salad. However, since it has strong taste and aroma you don’t want to go overboard. For best results always use fresh peppermint leaves.
