The Mint plant, Mentha, is a genus of aromatic herbaceous plants in the Lamiaceae family, which also includes other herbs like basil, rosemary and lavender. Mint plants are known for their distinctive aroma and flavor, which is often described as fresh, cool and slightly sweet. The mint plant is a versatile and popular herb that is cherished for its culinary versatility, aromatic qualities and potential health benefits.

Mint Species

Mentha is better known as Mint, from the greek word Míntha. There are several species and cultivars of mint, including peppermint (Mentha × piperita) and spearmint (Mentha spicata). These plants are characterized by their square stems, opposite leaves and small flowers arranged in whorls or clusters.

Mint plants are widely cultivated for culinary, medicinal and ornamental purposes.

Habitat of Mint

Originating in Europe, Mint has now been naturalized in North America. It can be found throughout the United States and Canada. Many people choose to grow their own mint in their gardens, greenhouses, and in the home. Mint also grows naturally near streams, creeks, rivers, and other damp places.

In the garden, mint is valued for its rapid growth, attractive foliage, and ability to attract beneficial insects like bees and butterflies. However, mint can be invasive and is often grown in containers to prevent it from spreading uncontrollably in the garden.

People have become very creative in harvesting its leaves and finding many ways to use this helpful herb. Whether a sprig of mint is added to a drink, the leaves are chewed, or its used in other forms, it should be a standard in any kitchen and garden.

Why Does Mint Tingle on the Skin?

Menthol activates receptors on the skin, tongue and in the mouth that are responsible for detecting cold temperatures, irritation or stimulation. When menthol comes into contact with these receptors, it triggers a cooling and tingling sensation, which many people find refreshing and invigorating.

This sensation can enhance the perception of freshness and can also have a numbing effect that may temporarily alleviate minor discomforts like sore throat or nasal congestion.

Health Benefits of Mint

Mint is beneficial to one’s health and wellness as a herbal supplement. Mint leaves are used to make teas, infused waters and herbal remedies due to their health benefits, such as promoting digestion and freshening breath.

Mint has many positive properties that can treat a host of issues in the human body, which we will explore in more detail below:

Mint as a Digestive Remedy

Mint has many benefits when consumed as a supplement. It aids the digestive system as it boosts action in the salivary glands, soothes the stomach during bouts of indigestion, and can provide relief for nausea.

The menthol component in mint has a soothing effect on the digestive system, helping to calm stomach upset and reduce cramping.

Mint can be taken in various forms to help with digestion; a few drops of Mint oil can be ingested, and it can be taken as a nice, refreshing mint tea. Both produce fast, effective results.

Mint, particularly peppermint, is often used to alleviate symptoms of colic and griping, especially in infants and young children. Its carminative properties help to relax the muscles of the digestive tract, reduce gas and relieve spasms, which can be particularly helpful in easing discomfort associated with colic.

Peppermint oil, in particular, is commonly used to alleviate symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), including abdominal pain, bloating and gas.

Mint tea is a popular remedy for colic and griping in infants. However, it’s essential to use it in moderation, especially in young children, as excessive consumption of mint tea can potentially lead to adverse effects like heartburn or worsen symptoms in some individuals.

Soothe Headaches with Mint

Many people suffering from headaches find relief by applying a mint balm to the forehead. It is especially effective in treating the throbbing pain that is accompanied by a sinus headache when rubbed around the nose and temples. The scent is soothing, as well as benefiting from the anti-inflammatory properties of the herb.

Mint for Colds, Flu and Asthma

While there is no magical cure for the cold and flu, mint has proven to be beneficial in alleviating the congestion that accompanies many respiratory problems. People suffering from the unwelcome symptoms that come with bronchitis, the flu and any issue with the respiratory tract can often have their airways cleared by the powerful aroma of mint.

Mint is an alternative ingredient in inhalers, providing a cooling effect that reduces inflammation and soothes as well. It can be useful for those who suffer from asthma and may help them to manage their condition.

Mint for Fatigue and Depression

When feeling down or exhausted, mint can act as a stimulant. It can be taken in many different forms, whether balms and essential oils are rubbed on the skin, in a vapor mist, as a nice refreshing tea or in capsule form. A nice warm cup of mint tea can provide both relief and a mental boost, in a time of need.

Natural Weight Loss with Mint

Mint acts as a stimulant for the digestive system, kicking enzymes into action and promoting optimal functioning of the body’s metabolism. Less fat is stored and more calories are burned by the simple addition of mint to one’s diet. When combined with more physical activity and wise eating choices, it can make it easier to maintain an ideal body weight.

Mint as a Memory Enhancer

It would appear that Mint’s ability to be a stimulant also benefits mental processes. Mint has been linked to better cognitive functioning with aging. Taking mint on a regular basis can assist a person in remaining mentally sharp and holding on to memories at a time when they may start to slip away with the natural aging process.

Mint as a Skin Treatment

Mint is beneficial as a skin treatment. Mint is a powerful yet gentle cleanser that is effective in clearing up acne and ridding the skin of bacteria that leads to infection. It also provides relief from irritations on the skin caused by rashes, stings and scratches.

Mint can be applied to the skin in the form of; mint oil, mint tea and mint leaf juice.

When applied to the skin, mint, particularly peppermint, can produce a tingling sensation due to its active ingredient, menthol. Menthol has a cooling effect on the skin and activates certain receptors called TRPM8 receptors, which are responsible for detecting cold temperatures.

When menthol binds to these receptors, it triggers a sensation of coolness and tingling, similar to the sensation experienced when consuming mint. This tingling sensation can help create a feeling of freshness and invigoration on the skin and may provide temporary relief from discomfort or itching.

Additionally, menthol’s cooling properties can soothe irritated or inflamed skin, making it a common ingredient in topical products like lotions, balms, and creams.

Culinary Uses of Mint

Mint is a popular flavoring in many recipes. Mint leaves are commonly used in cooking to add flavor to dishes, beverages and desserts. The tingling sensation experienced when consuming mint, such as peppermint or spearmint, is due to the presence of menthol, a compound found in the leaves of mint plants. People find this effect both soothing and invigorating and therefore seek it out in food and drink.

Always take care when taking herbs and Read Our Disclaimer.

References:

(ALLEN, A.P. AND SMITH, A.P. A REVIEW OF THE EVIDENCE THAT CHEWING GUM AFFECTS STRESS, ALERTNESS AND COGNITION. JOURNAL OF BEHAVIORAL AND NEUROSCIENCE RESEARCH 2011;9(1)7-23)