Mint
Latin Name: Mentha arvensis Linn. (Lamiaceae)
Sanskrit/Indian name: Pudina, Putiha
General information:
Mint has been enjoyed in teas and has been used to flavor food in the Middle East, India and Europe. During the Middle Ages, powdered Mint leaves were used to whiten teeth. Mint tea is a strong diuretic, and its aroma is used as a mild decongestant for illnesses such as the common cold.
Therapeutic constituents:
Menthol is the most important constituent of Mint, which renders the herb its pharmacological properties.Key therapeutic benefits:
- Mint soothes the digestive tract and reduces stomach spasms. The tea is also known to alleviate discomfort associated with irritable bowel syndrome.
- The herb is an anti-allergic which plays an important role in treating asthma.