Spearmint is a perennial plant belonging to the mint family. There are numerous benefits of this plant as a herb. Research studies carried out on this plant has revealed several organic compounds which are responsible for its health benefits. When used in moderation, this herb can provide relief from several diseases as an easily available and home remedy. Awareness of the useful properties of these leaves can cut down the popping of pills and visits to the doctor.
Health Benefits of Spearmint Leaves
An important compound in these leaves is Menthol. It provides a cooling effect on the tissues and nerves. As a result, relief can be experienced from cough, aches, muscle pulls and nervous convulsions.
Compounds like Myrcene and Caryophyllene in these leaves provide antiseptic properties to them. Application of this oil on infections, wounds and ulcer leads to their faster healing.
The essential oil extracted from the leaves can be used on the intestine and abdomen regions. The relaxing properties of this oil allow the passage of the gas through its natural downward direction. It is a home remedy for people suffering from the symptoms of headaches, uneasiness or restlessness, stomachaches, indigestion, lack of appetite, vomiting, chest pain and cramps all experienced owing to gastric complaints.
As an integral part of Greek medicine, spearmint is used in the treatment of infectious diseases like Syphilis, Scabies, Gonorrhea, Dermatitis and Athlete’s Foot. It also treats infections or ulcers in the food pipe, stomach and intestine.
Owing to its relaxing and cooling effects, the application of spearmint leaves oil on the brain provides relief from headaches, stress and neurological problems.
The oil secretes the estrogen hormone and provides relief from uneasiness caused by irregular periods and early menopause like lower abdominal pain, fatigue and nausea. It also ensures the good health of the uterine by protecting it from infections.
A research study carried out at the Department of Diabetes and Endocrinology, Eastbourne District General Hospital, Eastbourne, East Sussex, UK in February 2010, found that spearmint herbal tea has anti-androgen effects and can effectively treat hirsutism in women.
The leaves of this mint can be consumed either in raw form or after cooking. It is used in salads and meat and rice dishes. The preparation has a distinct flavor on using these leaves.
Juice can be prepared from the spearmint leaves and applied to the skin. Its anti-inflammatory properties protect the skin from blackheads, bacteria, excess production of oily sebum and dead cells. It is a natural skin cleanser. As a face pack, it can be applied on the face along with curd and lemon juice and allowed to dry for 20 minutes. The face can be washed with cold water later to get a glowing look.
Pimples can be treated naturally by applying a face pack made from oats and spearmint leaves. Regular application of the pack on the face and rinse it with cold water after 30 minutes can give wonderful skin results.
Chewing of two to three mint leaves every day works wonders for oral health as it keeps the mouth a fresh and bad breath away.