Medicinal properties and benefits of mint. Mint: beneficial properties and contraindications

Mint is an ancient aromatic plant that was discovered and consumed many centuries ago. The plant began to gain its popularity back in Ancient Greece, but when his fame reached Ancient Rus', then here it was given the name “mint” that we know today. Typically, the herb was used in medicinal purposes, but it was also used in everyday life. They washed the floors with it, which made the air in the room better. Likewise, it was considered an excellent hand rinse. Even in those days, people were convinced that this herb helped refresh the mind. For this reason, noble people put wreaths on their heads that were woven from mint.

Experts identify a large number of its varieties.

What types and varieties of mint are there?

• Australian mint,
• pineapple mint,
• pennyroyal,
• water mint,
• Daurian mint,
• longleaf mint,
• fragrant mint,
• ginger mint,
• Canadian mint,
• spearmint,
• small-flowered mint,
• peppermint,
• field mint,
• apple mint,
• Japanese mint,
• and etc.

We most often find peppermint, field mint and fragrant mint.

Chemical composition of mint

Vitamins: A, C, D, B1, B2, B5, B6, B9, RR.

Minerals: iron, potassium, calcium, magnesium, manganese, copper, sodium, zinc, phosphorus.

Acids: valeric, linoleic, mellisic, oleanolic, acetic, ursolic.

Mint is especially valued for its essential oil content (2.5-4.5%), which consists of menthol and its esters. Interestingly, the leaves contain only 0.5% menthol, and the stem of the plant contains 40%.

Calorie content of mint - 50-70 kcal per 100 g.

Health Benefits and Health Benefits of Mint

• has analgesic and diuretic properties,
• helps with the flu,
• prevention and treatment of colds,
• relaxes the abdominal muscles,
• improves digestion,
• treats stomach diseases,
• relieves flatulence,
• helps with diarrhea,
• promotes weight loss,
• stops putrefactive processes in the intestines,
• eliminates the feeling of nausea,
• treats diseases of the respiratory system,
• fights tuberculosis, asthma and bronchitis,
• slows down the heartbeat,
• helps with hypertension,
• eliminates headaches,
• relaxes nervous system,
• relieves irritation and fatigue,
• helps you sleep,
• strengthens vision,
• refreshes the oral cavity,
• heals wounds and bruises,
• reduces the growth of unwanted hairs,
• treats skin diseases,
• relieves skin itching,
• improves the condition of skin and hair.

Properties and uses of mint essential oil

Peppermint oil is one of the popular essential oils. It is loved due to its aroma, which contains pleasant notes of chill.

The mint smell is considered to be feminine; it symbolizes her charm, courage, and desire for adventure. The energy of mint can completely renew and restore a person’s strength. This is why oil is often used to improve the functioning of the nervous system. It gives self-confidence, relieves irritability, relieves anxiety, and strengthens the heart. In addition, it is recommended to carry peppermint oil with you if you get motion sickness in transport.

In cosmetology, it is used to treat skin diseases, oral diseases and improve hair condition.

Mint tea is good for health

Mint tea is drunk for calmness and spiritual harmony. In addition, the aromatic drink eliminates indigestion, increases appetite, and is a great tonic in the heat. It is used for medicinal purposes to reduce cough and fever.

Recipe "Tea with mint"

It is very easy to prepare. You need fresh mint leaves or 1 tbsp. Brew dry raw materials with 1 cup of boiling water. The broth will be ready in 10-15 minutes. If desired, you can add a slice of lemon and a cinnamon stick.

Is it possible to drink mint during pregnancy?

Pregnancy is an unpredictable period, so there are still many opinions about using mint while expecting a baby. In general, mint solutions are not contraindicated and will be very useful, but in limited quantities. It is recommended to drink them once a day 3-4 times a week.

During pregnancy, the herb helps with nausea, relieves colic, itchy skin and relaxes the nervous system. In addition, tea with mint leaves copes very well with constipation, which is often found in women during this period.

Contraindication and harm

• individual intolerance,
• infertility,
• breast-feeding,
• children under 3 years old,
• low pressure,
• varicose veins

Excessive consumption of mint leads to heartburn and decreased male libido.

How does mint affect men? Impact on potency

Negative effects of mint on male potency is a very common misconception. A negative result is achieved only if the leaves are steeped for a long time (at least 5 minutes) and the mint infusion is drunk. large quantities(2-3 times a day). If a man drinks only 1 cup of weakly brewed herbal tea, and very rarely, then there is no reason to worry.

True, there is information that this plant slows down the activity of sperm, but this does not apply to potency itself.

When to collect

All summer period is considered the time to collect mint. If you want to pick leaves to make fresh tea, you can do this in the spring when the first sprouts appear. But if you need grass to prepare raw materials for the winter, then you should wait until mid-June. July is the peak harvest season. At this time, the mint has already grown and gained maximum of its aroma. Leaves should be cut 1-3 times a month.

How to properly dry mint at home

1 way. Cut off the grass stems along with the leaves and flowers. Wash the bottom part clean water, wait until it drains. Then spread the mint on a clean cloth somewhere in the shade so that the sun's rays do not fall on it.

Method 2. Gather the grass into sparse bunches and hang it on a hook in a dark place. The room should be well ventilated. The sun negatively affects the aroma of the herb - avoid it when preparing raw materials.

3 way. For a quick preparation process, an oven is also suitable. But this is not recommended, as many of the beneficial properties of the herb are lost.

How to store mint in the refrigerator

1. Freezing. Thanks to the manufacture of modern refrigerators, there is an amazing way to store herbs, berries, vegetables, etc. for a long time. So why not use this method and freeze mint? Especially excellent option is freezing, which can easily find their application. They can be added to homemade cocktails and also used in soups and salads. IN winter time years, frozen mint can be brewed and enjoy the incomparable fragrant tea with medicinal properties.

2. “Wet” method. You can use a good option that will allow you to preserve mint leaves in fresh for 7 days. To do this, it is recommended to moisten a towel, wrap the mint in it and put it in the refrigerator. You can resort to another option: put the mint in a bucket or vase. Firstly, this will allow you to preserve it for a long time, and secondly, it will saturate your home with an unsurpassed aroma. Only in this case is it necessary to change the water in which the mint is standing daily.

3. Dry method.“Drying” medicinal herbs has long been famous - this allows them to be stored for many years. The only drawback when choosing this method is that over time the mint loses its beneficial features. This is why it is best to renew your mint supply every year. Drying methods were discussed above.

Use of mint for health and beauty

Mint treatment

For insomnia, headaches and irritability. Drink mint tea 1-2 times a day.

At increased acidity. 20 g mint + 10 g valerian + 15 g chamomile + 10 g dill seeds + 10 g caraway seeds + 5 g hops. Pour 5 cups of boiling water over the herbal mixture. Take the decoction in the morning on an empty stomach, 1 glass every 2 hours throughout the day.

For digestion. Take 1 glass of mint infusion in the morning and evening.

From wounds and bruises. Grind the mint and apply it as a compress to the sore spot. Leave it for 15-20 minutes.

For the oral cavity. If your gums are inflamed or bleeding, rinse your mouth with mint decoction. It is recommended to brush your teeth with a toothpowder that contains herbs.

Using mint on the face

Mask for oily skin. Grind fresh leaves or add water to dry raw materials. Apply the herb to your face and leave for 15 minutes, then rinse with water. You can add 1-2 drops of peppermint essential oil to your favorite cosmetic product or carrier oil.

Moisturizing mask. 1 tbsp. chopped leaves of the plant (or 1 drop of essential oil) + 1-2 tbsp. olive oil or honey. The mixture is applied to the face for 10-15 minutes.

Ice cubes for the face. Prepare a decoction of mint and pour it into ice cube trays. Wipe your face with the prepared cubes morning and evening. This method perfectly tones the skin, gives it healthy looking, blush appears. In addition, pores narrow. The method is not suitable for sensitive skin.

How to use on hair

Mint improves hair growth, gives it shine, and prevents it from tangling. Apply 2-3 drops of essential oil to a comb and distribute it along the entire length of the curls.

Rinse aid. Prepare 0.5-1 liter (depending on the length of the hair) of mint decoction. Rinse your hair with it after washing your hair; there is no need to rinse it off.

Use in cooking

The herb is used in the preparation of smoothies, cocktails, soups, fruit and vegetable salads. Mint adds an extraordinary taste and aroma to dishes and confectionery. For example, gingerbread with mint is very famous. It has become fashionable to use it as a flavoring agent for soft drinks, for example, lemonades.

Recipes with mint

Chocolate mint cocktail

Mint is quite popular and loved folk remedy. Her medicinal properties help overcome many ailments, and the tonic aroma relaxes and calms the nervous system.

Mint is one of the world's most famous herbs and can be found literally everywhere - from teas and cocktails to toothpaste or chewing gum. The taste of mint is so unique and unlike anything else that there are proposals to add it fifth to the well-known list of basic ones: sweet, bitter, sour and salty. Aromatherapy, perfumery, cooking, medicine - representatives of each of these areas can give their answer to the question of how mint is useful and why it is good.

What is mint?

Mint is a generalized name for many plant species belonging to the Lamiaceae family. What unites these types is the presence in their chemical composition specific substance - menthol. It is this that causes such a characteristic mint aroma and “cool” taste. However, freshness can be felt not only with the tongue - numerous cosmetics containing menthol also have a noticeable refreshing effect.

Today at different countries Around the world, a little more than two dozen varieties of mint, both wild and cultivated, are collected and consumed. The most popular variety is peppermint. The benefits of this plant as a whole are no more and no less than those of other varieties of mint, because the differences between them are mainly due to their adaptability to growing in certain conditions and the peculiarities of the structure and appearance, and not some specific composition. And if you come across peppermint in a store or in nature, the contraindications for its use will also correspond to those common to all varieties of this herb. Peppermint is unpretentious, you can grow it even on the windowsill of a city apartment, and at the same time it has pronounced taste and aromatic characteristics - this is what explains its popularity.

Mint stems and leaves have practical value. It is recommended to collect them for drying and fresh consumption at a certain time, when the menthol content in them is especially high - as a rule, shortly before flowering and during it.

Mint contains essential B vitamins for humans, retinol (A) and (C), as well as macro- and microelements - iron, calcium, magnesium, manganese, zinc and others. In addition, plant raw materials contain natural tannins, esters, and phytoncides.

What is made from mint?

It’s easier to say what they don’t make from it - enter any hypermarket, and this plant and its derivatives will literally surround you. Fresh herbs, mint syrup, chewing gum, toothpaste, deodorant, shampoo, dish soap, mint tea mixtures, dried herbs in the spice section, semi-finished lamb fillet in mint marinade, mint gingerbread, candy, and for fans bad habits– mint liqueur and menthol cigarettes. The situation is the same in the pharmacy: peppermint tincture, herbal infusions, cough drops, dandruff remedies - and this is not a complete list.

In cooking, mint is used mainly in fresh and dried form - both for flavoring dishes and giving food certain flavor shades, and simply for decoration, like any other greens. The easiest way is to brew mint tea - read more about the benefits and harms of this drink below. Perfumers also love to use mint - starting from its primitive use in household chemicals, where mint flavor is able to qualitatively overpower the not always pleasant original odors of substances in gels and aerosols, and ending with the high art of composing fashionable fragrances.

What are the benefits of mint?

Treatises were written about the benefits of mint for the body in ancient times - references to this medicinal herb were found in the works of Avicenna and Hippocrates, who, among other things, gave advice on the beneficial properties of mint and contraindications to its use. Their recommendations are not at all outdated - mint can still be used to effectively heal both body and soul.

Here are the main ones beneficial effects properties this herb has:

• bactericidal properties;
• mild natural sedative;
• mild analgesic effect;
• ability to lower body temperature;
• vasodilator of natural origin;
• anti-inflammatory effect.

Taking into account the above, it is not surprising that both in folk and in traditional medicine Mint is widely used. Indications for its use are problems in the gastrointestinal tract, spasmodic pain, including headache and menstrual pain, fever, nervous disorders, insomnia.

Are there any contraindications?

Harm to mint occurs, first of all, in the case of its excessive consumption - such phenomena as an overdose of the vitamins contained in this herb and exceeding the permissible consumption of micro- and macroelements are possible. There are, in addition, a number of specific contraindications to the use of mint:

• individual intolerance and allergic reactions;
• hypotension – mint and its derivatives have the ability to further lower blood pressure;
• some gastrointestinal diseases - increased acidity, peptic ulcer;
• conditions associated with decreased vascular tone, such as varicose veins;
• age up to three years.

In addition, the relaxation that mint can cause is of no use if you are driving - so you can only use this plant before car trips if you are a passenger.

Mint for women and men

The benefits of mint for women have been tested and confirmed by many generations of women who have used the analgesic and sedative properties of this herb:

• to relieve pain during menstruation;
• to relieve symptoms of menopause;
• to reduce the manifestations of toxicosis during pregnancy;
• to reduce body hair growth.

Modern women have at their disposal an extensive list medicines for these purposes, but medicinal mint still does not lose popularity among the fair sex - after all, a natural remedy is always healthier than a synthetic one. In addition, this herb began to be actively used by those who want to lose weight - since mint tea, due to its high content of essential oils, dulls appetite and is not harmful to the body. female body even with constant use, you can drink plenty of it while on a diet.

Another open question related to mint is its harm to men. There is an opinion that the use of this herb, affecting the level of male hormones, reduces sexual desire, which representatives of the stronger sex usually fear like fire. However, it can be argued that the harm from mint for men is at least greatly exaggerated: some specific effects can only be noticed with abundant and systematic consumption of this herb and its derivatives. The only exception– attempts to wash other, more delicate areas with mint shampoo against dandruff. In this case, the effect is felt with lightning speed.

It couldn’t be simpler: mint tea

Peppermint tea is perhaps the most common way to prepare this herb due to its simplicity: it requires nothing but mint and water. To prepare this tasty and healing decoction, you just need to pour boiling water over a measured amount of mint and steep in the same way as regular tea.

The harm of mint tea is minimal, and the benefits have long been proven. In winter, they can effectively warm you up, while in summer, chilled mint tea, to which ice cubes are added, will help you feel comfortable, despite the heat and stuffiness.

Just one sprig of fresh mint or a pinch of dried mint can elevate and turn even the most unassuming black tea from a bag into a quite decent drink.

Has its loyal fans and green tea with mint, to which this herb also gives additional flavor notes. There are also various tea and herbal infusions on sale, which include mint. If you wish, you can make such “cocktails” yourself, varying them depending on your taste preferences.

A slightly more complex method of preparing a mint drink is widely known - from mint, lemon, honey and root. Some people use it to accelerate metabolism during weight loss - cold or warm. But this tea is especially effective for colds and low blood pressure. blood pressure– and here, of course, you need to drink it hot.

In the article we talk about mint tea - benefits for men and women. You will learn how to prepare mint tea according to various recipes and find out whether it has tasty and healthy drink contraindications.

Mint tea is good for women and men

Rich, refreshing, natural, healing and aromatic, the drink is popular all over the world. It is appreciated for its pleasant taste and availability. Is mint tea healthy?

The benefits of mint tea are as follows:

• invigorates and improves brain activity;
• reduces headaches;
• restores digestive functions well;
• eliminates nausea, relieves spasms during stomach colic, restores bile balance, reduces gas formation and bloating;
• has a beneficial effect on the nervous system: eliminates anxiety and improves sleep quality.

The benefits of mint tea are undeniable for respiratory diseases, so prepare it if you need to improve expectoration, eliminate nasal congestion, and reduce fever. Drink mint tea as a preventive measure to strengthen your immune system and prevent vitamin deficiency.

The beneficial properties of mint in tea are determined by the components included in the plant:

• menthol;
• ascorbic, pantothenic, folic acids;
• tannins;
• thiamine;
• riboflavin;
• phytoncides;
• trace elements: copper, phosphorus, zinc, iron, magnesium, sodium and potassium.

Benefits of mint tea for women

The benefits of mint tea for the female body are as follows:

• normalizes hormonal levels;
• improves the condition in the premenstrual period and during menstruation;
• restores skin cells;
• eliminates the symptoms of menopause.

In the absence of contraindications, women can drink mint tea 2 cups a day. The low-calorie drink (8.5 kcal per 100 g) is popular among those who carefully control their weight. It reduces appetite, eliminates hunger for a long time and reduces cravings for sweets. Drinking mint tea between meals speeds up metabolism, which has a beneficial effect on your figure and overall well-being.

Benefits of mint tea for men

Men should be careful with a tonic drink, because mint added to tea will be beneficial or harmful depending on the amount.

One mug of mint tea before bed will help relieve stress and relieve insomnia.. In large quantities, mint reduces testosterone levels, which will cause male impotence.

Is it possible to drink mint tea during pregnancy?

The properties of mint in tea for women carrying a child are controversial among obstetricians and gynecologists. Some claim that in small quantities mint:

• smooths out unpleasant symptoms early toxicosis;
• eliminates dizziness and constipation;
• tones the uterine muscles;
• prevents heartburn;
• reduces swelling of the limbs;
• increases immunity.

While mint tea is beneficial, it can also cause harm to pregnant women:

• allergic reactions;
• excessive tone of the uterine muscles, leading to miscarriage;
• severe heartburn (especially in the 3rd trimester);
• decreased blood pressure in hypotensive patients.

After the birth of a baby, knowing the benefits of mint tea for a woman, doctors recommend drinking it rarely (2-3 times a week). If pregnancy and childbirth occurred with complications, if there were health problems before conception, then the use of the drink should be agreed upon with the observing gynecologist.

Mint tea recipes

Peppermint tea can be brewed with various additives

Various additives help diversify the taste of tea and complement the benefits of mint - cinnamon, lime or lemon, honey, pine nuts, as well as black currant leaves, raspberries, cranberries or strawberries. Prepare natural drink By the best recipes for yourself and your family.

Soothing tea

Make a calming tea to help you relax before bed, relieve headaches, and relieve insomnia.

Ingredients:

1. Peppermint leaves – 1 tbsp.
2. Oregano – 1 tbsp.
3. St. John's wort – 1 tbsp.
4. Chamomile – 1 tbsp.
5. Honey – 1 tbsp.

How to cook: Mix all the herbs in a ceramic or glass teapot. Pour the mixture with 2 cups of boiling water. Leave for 15 minutes.

How to use: Drink 1-2 glasses. The effect of the prepared drink will answer the question, is it possible to drink mint at night?

Result: Herbal tea with mint soothes, eliminates headaches, relieves stress accumulated during the day.

With ginger and honey

In the morning, ginger-mint tea will invigorate you, in the evening it will soothe and relax.

Ingredients:

1. Black tea – 1 tsp.
2. Mint sprig – 1 pc.
3. A slice of ginger root.
4. Honey – 1 tsp.

How to cook: The indicated ingredients are intended to prepare 1 serving of the drink. Brew black tea. Place mint and ginger in a cup. Fill them with hot tea leaves. Leave for 5 minutes. Add honey before use.

How to use: Strain the prepared tea or drink it straight with mint and ginger. No more than 2 cups per day.

Result: What are the benefits of mint and ginger tea? Regular consumption of the drink will reduce cholesterol, strengthen blood vessels, speed up metabolism, restore weakened immunity, prevent inflammation and relieve stomach cramps.

With cranberries and honey

Tea with mint, honey and cranberries perfectly quenches thirst (in summer you can drink it chilled). The drink relieves fatigue and increases performance.

Ingredients:

1. Chinese red tea – 2 tsp.
2. Cranberries – 100 gr.
3. Cane sugar – 2 tsp.
4. Chopped peppermint leaves – 1 tsp.
5. Peppermint sprigs – 2 pcs.
6. Honey (to taste).

How to cook: Pour tea and mint into a heated kettle. Slowly pour boiling water. Leave for 5 minutes. Grate the cranberries and mix with sugar.

How to use: Divide the cranberries and honey into cups, then pour the prepared tea over the mixture.

Result: The benefits of black tea with mint and cranberries are undeniable - you will normalize digestion, reduce the risk of developing atherosclerosis, increase immunity and quickly restore the body after vitamin deficiency.

With cinnamon and lime

If you want to lose weight, then choose a recipe for mint tea with cinnamon and lime.

Ingredients:

1. Large leaf green tea – 2 tsp.
2. Lime – 0.5 pcs.
3. Peppermint sprigs – 2-3 pcs.
4. Cinnamon stick (length 3-5 cm) – 1 pc.

How to cook: Pour mint and tea into a heated kettle, add cinnamon. Pour boiling water over it. Leave for 2-3 minutes. The more you steep the tea, the more bitter the cinnamon will become. Instead of cinnamon sticks, you can use powder, but in this case the tea will have to be strained.

How to use: Take freshly prepared tea in the morning or evening, cold or hot, with the addition of lime wedges or squeezed juice, honey or fresh berries.

Result: What are the benefits of green tea with mint, cinnamon and lime? It is great for those who want to lose weight: it improves metabolism, cleanses the body of toxins, reduces sugar levels and breaks down fats.

Moroccan tea

In the homeland of Moroccan tea, the drink is taken throughout the day to quench thirst. European tourists prefer to drink it chilled with ice cubes. Try this invigorating drink too.

Ingredients:

1. Green tea – 2 tsp.
2. Sugar (to taste).
3. Peppermint leaves (to taste).

How to cook: Pour green tea into the kettle, pour hot water(temperature no more than 85 degrees) and leave for 15 minutes. Without stirring, carefully pour into a stainless steel kettle through a filter. Add sugar. Bring the drink to a boil. Tea is ready. All that’s left is to add mint: don’t skimp on the leaves if you want to get a drink with a pleasant bitterness. If you like, add milk or spices (ground cinnamon, cloves), lemon or orange zest.

How to use: Pour tea into tall glasses and drink throughout the day, but no more than 5-6 mugs.

Result: Tea has an excellent tonic effect, increases performance and gives strength for the whole day.

For more information about mint tea, watch the video:

Contraindications and possible harm

Despite the benefits of mint tea, harm from the drink is possible if you have:

• allergy to menthol;
• low blood pressure - mint tea will lower it even more, which will lead to drowsiness, lethargy, and dizziness;
• varicose veins or heartburn - mint causes an exacerbation of these pathologies;
• impotence;
• constipation – tannins in mint have a strengthening effect.

What to remember

1. The beneficial properties of mint tea include its effect on the nervous system and digestion, heart and blood vessels. The drink has an anti-inflammatory effect, strengthens the immune system, and is effective against vitamin deficiency.
2. Green tea with mint is especially beneficial for those who want to lose weight. excess weight.
3. Despite all the benefits, the harm from mint tea can be felt by hypotensive people, allergy sufferers, pregnant and lactating women, people suffering from varicose veins and gastrointestinal diseases.
4. Men should only take mint tea in small quantities.

Many people grow mint on summer cottage, including us. How to pick a few leaves well mint and throw into the brewed black tea. But there are also several recipes for preparing an infusion, the main ingredient of which is peppermint. Useful properties of mint have been known for a long time, and it is successfully used as an additional remedy for the treatment of many diseases. How to brew mint- will be discussed in this article.

Beneficial properties of drinks with mint:

• Mint is a calming natural remedy. Aromatic tea helps you relax, and regular use of mint infusion helps strengthen the nervous system.
• Mint contains menthol, which is useful for angina pectoris because it dilates the coronary vessels of the heart.
• Mint tea cools in the heat, relieves pain and inflammation.
• Helps digest food when overeating, reduces gas formation, improves digestion.

Mint tea: recipes

Useful for overeating, colic, and spasms:

• Brew tea from leaves mint: Just pour boiling water over them and let it brew.

You can also drink this tea in the evening for migraines and frequent headaches. Mint normalizes sleep, and the morning will be good.

Mint with tea:

• Throw 2 teaspoons of black and green tea into the kettle, add mint, add boiling water.

This tea relieves thirst, improves mood and digestion.

Useful in hot weather:

• Throw 1 tbsp into a glass. l. pine nuts, pour mint tea.

This mint tea is a great thirst reliever.

For fun:

• Ingredients: mint, lemon, black tea, sugar. First you need to brew black tea separately in a teapot. Remove the zest from one small lemon, cut into strips, throw into a clean glass glass, add a few mint leaves and pour in brewed black tea. Add sugar to taste, stir.

Mint infusion for calming: recipes

Recipe No. 1

Ingredients:

• 1 tbsp. spoon of peppermint leaves,
• 1 glass of hot water.

Preparation:

Pour boiling water over the mint and let it brew for 15-20 minutes. Then the drink is filtered. It is recommended to consume warm 2-3 times a day half an hour before meals.

Recipe No. 2

• Same ingredients

The mint is poured with boiling water and placed in a water bath. There the drink is heated for 15 minutes. The infusion needs to be cooled and strained. It is recommended to consume 1/3 or 1/2 glasses 2-3 times during the day and before bed.

How to brew mint: video recipe

Brew mint Just, How two by two. This is clearly shown in the video. You just need to throw mint leaves into a cup and pour boiling water over it. Let it brew for a few minutes.

What are the benefits of mint and what are its harms? Do the leaves of this plant really help you lose weight, cure colds and improve skin condition? Let's try to understand this issue.

Peppermint and its medicinal properties have been familiar to people since ancient times. It is widely used today in folk medicine. This plant, which has a pleasant smell, was used to treat various diseases by ancient doctors: Paracelsus, Avicenna, Hippocrates, etc. With the help of this aromatic herb, they treated gastrointestinal disorders, headaches, and stimulated intellectual activity. This plant is also widely known for its diuretic, warming, diaphoretic and analgesic effects.

The plant contains phytoncides that dilate blood vessels. This improves attention and memory. Mint also contains many essential oils containing carotene, menthol, betaine, and hesperidin. This plant contains a lot of acids that are beneficial for the body. It contains linoleic, mellisic, ursolic, oleanolic, and valeric acids.

Using mint for weight loss

The raw material used is mint leaves, collected in the summer when the plant is flowering and then dried in the shade. Mint is widely used for weight loss . In addition, the plant has antispasmodic, soothing, antimicrobial, and choleretic effects. It has a positive effect on smooth muscles and enhances the secretion of digestive glands.

Drinking mint lemonade, which is prepared as follows, helps you lose weight:

1. A couple of liters of filtered or boiled water is poured into a glass vessel.
2. Peel the lemon and cut it into small pieces;
3. Place the crushed lemon pulp in a vessel with water;
4. Add fourteen mint leaves to the lemon water.
5. Place the jug of the drink in the refrigerator for several hours.

Mint lemonade is superbly refreshing and effectively quenches thirst, making it very pleasant to drink in the summer heat. By drinking 3-4 glasses of this lemonade every day, you can lose a few kilograms without much effort on your part.

Despite all the usefulness of this plant, it also has certain contraindications:

• taking peppermint is contraindicated if there is insufficient secretion of gastric juice;
• mint infusions are contraindicated for hypotensive patients;
• People suffering from breathing disorders, for example, asthmatics, in whom mint can cause bronchospasm, should take mint products with caution.
• mint tea during breastfeeding can cause deterioration in lactation;
• mint reduces vascular tone, so it can cause veins to expand (mint cannot be used for varicose veins);
• mint for insomnia can cause even worse sleep and anxiety;

How does mint affect the heart?

People suffering from heart disease are interested in how mint affects the heart? This plant helps stabilize the functioning of this organ during arrhythmia and angina pectoris, and eliminate spasms of the heart muscle. However, if you consume mint excessively, pain may occur in the heart area.

Is peppermint good for women or not?

Mint is extremely beneficial for women. It is used to alleviate menopausal symptoms. Using mint for menstruation , you can get rid of pain. Mint infusions help cure inflammatory gynecological diseases. Many women use mint during pregnancy.

Fragrant mint tea helps young mothers at the end breastfeeding their babies. Many mothers use mint to stop lactation as a natural remedy that is safe for the body. Mint is completely safe for infants, so it can be safely used during breastfeeding.

Is mint tea good for effective weight loss?

Peppermint tea helps you quickly lose weight. According to scientists, mint increases the secretion of bile in the digestive system. Because bile takes Active participation in the process of breaking down fats, helping food move faster through digestive tract, many obese people drink mint tea to lose weight. Mint improves metabolism, regulates intestinal motility, and also eliminates dysbacteriosis and removes toxins from the body. All these properties of peppermint contribute to obtaining quick effect when using it for weight loss.

Is it possible to use mint if you have high blood pressure?

Mint for blood pressure is only useful for hypertensive patients. This plant has the ability to significantly dilate blood vessels and reduce their tone, which lowers blood pressure. Systematic consumption of mint tea is beneficial for people suffering from hypotension. After drinking one cup of this tea, a person calms down and relaxes, his blood pressure gradually normalizes.

Using mint for colds and coughs

Mint is very useful for colds. Mint decoctions and infusions are used to treat various colds. Eating mint for a cough helps dilate the bronchi and facilitates the removal of mucus. However, people suffering from bronchitis with an asthmatic component, bronchial asthma, should use mint drinks with caution, since they can provoke the development of bronchospasm.

For colds and coughs, mint infusion with vodka helps, which is prepared as follows:

1. Fresh mint leaves are washed and chopped.
2. The crushed leaves are placed in a jar.
3. Vodka is poured into the container so that the liquid completely covers the mint.
4. The tincture is placed for ten days in a cool, dark place.
5. Take twenty drops before meals a couple of times a day.

Mint for heartburn, poisoning and diarrhea

Mint infusions are good for treating diseases of the intestines and stomach. Mint helps with heartburn. Mint is no less useful for poisoning. Thanks to its antimicrobial effect, it helps to neutralize and remove toxins and other harmful substances from the body. The antimicrobial effect of this plant also makes mint useful for diarrhea. .

Is mint harmful for gastritis and high acidity?

This plant has the ability to reduce stomach acidity. Therefore, mint for gastritis , accompanied by excessive acidity, is very useful. With increased acidity, mint helps reduce stomach acidity, remove inflammation, and get rid of pain. If the acidity is low, mint infusions should not be consumed.

How to use mint for pancreatitis?

The regenerative ability of this plant ensures the healing of inflamed tissues of the stomach, intestines, and pancreas. Mint is very useful for pancreatitis. Mint infusions can be drunk for all types of pancreatitis. It also helps in the treatment of gastrointestinal pathologies in those people who suffer chronic alcoholism.

How to use mint for nails?

Mint for nails is used in the form of baths. Contained in this plant essential oils, as well as various tannins, strengthen nails, make them shiny and healthy.

This fragrant plant is also very beneficial for hair. It gives the hair a pleasant aroma, eliminates flaking of the scalp, and nourishes the hair roots. For hair care, rinse with mint water.

How to properly use peppermint on your face?

Mint is extremely beneficial for the face. In cosmetology, this plant is used in dried and fresh form. IN summer time It can be used fresh, or dried in winter. Mint is used to make decoctions for washing, infusions and face masks. You can also make mint ice to rub on your face.

• tone the facial skin;
• heal inflammation;
• help remove signs of fatigue;
• slow down the aging of the body;
• make blood vessels stronger;
• cleanse the skin;
• normalize the functioning of the sebaceous glands.

Rules for using mint for the face

• this plant can cause allergies or irritation, so before applying mint preparations to the skin of the face, they should be tested on the wrist;
• Fresh mint is suitable for making masks, but for decoctions and infusions it is better to use dried mint;
• the mint mask can only be applied to a cleansed face;
• After use, the mask is washed off with water; there is no need to wash off infusions or decoctions;
• the mint mask should not be kept on the face for more than a quarter of an hour;
• Apply this mask once a week.

How to prepare mint infusion for the face?

Preparing a mint infusion for the face is not at all difficult. To prepare it, you must perform the following steps:

1. A tablespoon of dried mint leaves is poured with boiling water (one glass).
2. The mixture is infused for some time in a sealed container (at least twenty minutes).
3. After this, the infusion is filtered, cooled and used to wipe the face.

Mint infusion invigorates, refreshes the skin, relieves inflammation and irritation, and eliminates signs of fatigue.

The cold infusion can be poured into ice molds, then placed in freezer. Mint ice It is very useful to wipe the neck and face. This should be done with sliding, light movements. Mint rubs refresh, cleanse and tone the skin. They are especially useful in summer heat.

Making a mint face mask

Masks are made from fresh mint leaves. To prepare such a mask, take twelve mint leaves, a third fresh cucumber and a spoonful of lemon juice. Finely chop all the ingredients and mix, then apply to the face. This mask is most useful for oily skin. A natural mint mask tightens pores, eliminates oily shine from the skin, and minimizes inflammation.

Is mint good for men (for hangovers, for potency)?

But men should not get carried away with these plants at all. This plant is female, so it has a negative effect on male libido. Mint is not at all beneficial for men. It is not necessary for men to completely exclude mint; men should simply minimize its use, since mint is harmful to potency. Mint for a hangover helps cleanse the body of alcohol toxins and improve overall well-being.

Features of using mint for headaches

Two methods are used to eliminate headaches. The essence quick method consists of placing fresh leaves of this plant on the forehead and securing them. The second method involves infusing mint in alcohol for a week. Peppermint alcohol is used to wipe the temples, as well as the back of the head and forehead for headaches. The use of this remedy helps to quickly reduce or eliminate pain.

Mint for diabetes - good or not?

Due to its ability to normalize the functioning of the pancreas, mint is used in complex treatment diabetes mellitus. Mint for diabetes helps reduce sugar and normalize general state. For cooking remedy In addition to mint, dandelion root is also needed.

To make an infusion, you need:

1. Take three tablespoons of mint, a spoonful of dandelion root.
2. All this should be poured into a glass of water, heat it and boil for a couple of minutes this solution.
3. After this, the infusion must be infused (infused for about half an hour).
4. This remedy should be consumed a quarter glass on an empty stomach.

Is mint good for a runny nose?

Mint is widely used for runny nose, catarrh of the larynx and pharynx, as well as for respiratory diseases. Mint inhalations help quickly remove swelling from the nasopharynx. When carrying out this procedure, use mint essential oil. The patient may also inhale the aroma of smoldering mint leaves. When using this method of therapy, a positive effect is observed even in the presence of acute sinusitis.

How to use mint for cystitis?

With the help of mint, even advanced cystitis can be cured. This plant allows you to quickly cure sudden or chronic inflammation Bladder. To treat cystitis, a mint decoction is prepared.

To prepare it proceed as follows:

1. twenty grams of dried mint leaves are poured with one or one and a half glasses of boiling water.
2. Boil the broth over the fire for about seven minutes.
3. For a month, this decoction is taken daily, three times a day, one glass.

Is mint harmful for children?

Mint is very useful for children. It is usually added to tea. Peppermint tea is very fragrant and healthy. It has a calming effect. This drink can be given to children over three years old. IN hot weather mint leaves can be added homemade lemonade or a cooling cocktail for a child.

Mint infusions can be added to the water used for bathing babies. This decoction is prepared as follows:

1. Four tablespoons of crushed dried leaves are poured into 0.5 liters of boiling water.
2. After this, the broth is infused for about forty minutes.
3. Then the liquid is filtered.
4. The strained broth is poured into a bath of water for bathing the baby.

A mint bath helps kids relax and quickly calm down before bed.