Mint
What is mint?
Mint, also known as menthe scientifically, comes from the plants of family lamiaceae. Chances are that you have already tasted mint in some form or the other since it is available in different varieties ranging from 13 to 20 in number. Peppermint and spear mint are the most popular varieties of mint you may be familiar with. Mint oil is used in toothpaste for a refreshing effect in the mouth and is used in many products such as tea, bubblegum, inhalers candies and smoking goods. Mint is greatly used in Turkish, Greek and middle eastern cooking. In the western world, mint is used with lamb and tea only.
Properties of mint
Mint grows better in wet environment and wet soil which is why it is usually grown near rivers and lakes. It can however, also be grown in external conditions such as in full exposure to sun. Mint can be had anytime of the year since it is grown throughout the seasons unlike other fruits and vegetables. Many people around the world use this herb with their tea which enhances the drinks taste as well as the health benefits. Mint contains small amount of potassium, calcium, magnesium, vitamin C and vitamin A that are necessities for a human body. Mint plants are one of the fastest growing plants and can spread over a large area in a small time. If you plan on consuming it later, you can store it in a plastic bag without the risk of losing its freshness completely.
Health benefits of mint?
Mint is a natural fresh herb and contains various nutrients and hence used in many treatments. It is widely used in mouth fresheners to help you freshen your breath. It is used medically to treat stomach aches as well and it aroma is used to treat nausea and headaches. People use mint steam to release congestion in nose and throat and is particularly effective for those who suffer asthma. Mint oil is used as an antiseptic liquid to keep pimples at bay and it also contains antioxidant which is essential for preventing aging of skin. According to research mint contains certain enzymes that can prevent cancer cells from developing and can help the doctors cure patients in early stages of cancer.
Mint can induce sweating in fever which brings the body temperature down to normal. Mint water can be used on wounds to avoid infection. So to say, there are numerous health benefits to this seemingly simple, fresh-smelling plant!
Where can I get Mint?
Mint is available in most herbal stores or in frozen form in general stores. It is grown in almost every part of the world nowadays and people even grow this healthy plant in their houses. The best way to include mint in your diet is by combining it with tea and enhancing its taste. Herbal mint is mainly found in Europe, Africa, Asia, North America and Australia.
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