Spearmint

Latin name: Mentha spicata

Sanskrit/Indian name:  Pahari Putida, Putiha

General information:

Spearmint, which contains vitamins, antioxidants and phytonutrients, has a number of health benefits. The herb is a stimulant, carminative and antispasmodic. A sweetened infusion of the herb is administered in infantile colic, vomiting in pregnancy and hysteria. The leaves are used in fevers and bronchitis. Spearmint oil is a counter-irritant.

Therapeutic constituents:

The chief constituents of the essential oil of Spearmint are carvone and limonene, which give the herb its therapeutic properties.

Key therapeutic benefits:

• As a carminative, Spearmint eliminates gas from the gastrointestinal system and strengthens the stomach.
• It is an anti-inflammatory and antispasmodic that is beneficial in the treatment of muscle and joint aches.
• A tea made with Spearmint leaves counters stress and has been traditionally used to cure headaches and migraines.