Introduction about Mint

• Mint or mentha belongs to the Lamiaceae family, which contains around 15 to 20 plant species, including peppermint and spearmint. It is a popular herb that people can use fresh or dried in many dishes and infusions. Manufacturers of toothpaste, gum, candy, and beauty products often use mint oil.

• Using fresh mint and other herbs and spices in cooking can help a person add flavor while reducing their sodium and sugar intake.

• Possible benefits

• Mint may have several potential health benefits.

Managing gastrointestinal problems

Mint is a calming herb that people have used for thousands of years to help soothe an upset stomach or indigestion.

Allergies

Mint plants contain an antioxidant and anti-inflammatory agent called rosmarinic acid.

The content of mint extract in oils and ointments may be far stronger than dietary mint. There is very little research into the effect of dietary mint on the symptoms of allergies.

Diet

Mint leaves are a tender herb with gentle stems. It is best to add them raw or at the end of the cooking process. This helps them maintain their delicate flavor and texture.

When buying mint, look for bright, unblemished leaves. Store them in a reusable plastic bag in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.

Mint is relatively easy to grow, and people can cultivate it at home, making it a sustainable way to add flavor to meals.

When preparing mint, use a sharp knife and cut gently. Using a dull knife or over-chopping will bruise the herb and lead to a loss of flavor on the cutting board surface.

Middle Eastern cuisines, such as lamb, soups, and vegetable salads often contain mint for flavor.

Risks

Like many herbs, mint can adversely affect some people.

People with gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) should not use mint in an attempt to soothe digestive issues. According to a 2019 reviewTrusted Source, mint commonly acts as a trigger for GERD symptoms.

Taking peppermint oil in large doses can be toxicTrusted Source. It is essential to stick to the recommended doses of peppermint oil.

Pure menthol is poisonous and not for internal consumption. People should only ever apply it to the skin or a nearby surface, such as a pillow, to disperse fumes.

Do not apply mint oil to the face of an infant or small child, as it may cause spasms that inhibit breathing.

Speak with your healthcare provider to determine whether any of your medications could interact with mint or mint oil.

Nutrition

A 2-tablespoon serving, or 3.2 grams (g) of fresh peppermint provides:

2.24 calories

0.12 g of protein

0.48 g of carbohydrates

0.03 g of fat

0.26 g of fiber

Mint also contains trace amounts of:

potassium

magnesium

calcium

phosphorus

vitamin C

iron

vitamin A

While mint contains several nutrients, the amount that a person would typically use in a meal is not sufficient to provide a significant amount of a person’s daily requirement.

Mint in the diet is most beneficial as a replacement for salty, sugary, or calorific flavorings. Mint ointments or supplements provide most of their benefits.