Uses
Oil of peppermint adds refreshing cool flavor to cordial compositions. A
sprig of fresh herb adds character to juleps.
Increases stomach acidity, irritates mucous membranes and the
gastrointestinal tract. Use for chills, colic, fever, nausea, diarrhea,
heart trouble, rheumatism, convulsions, spasms, dizziness, vomiting, travel
sickness, dysentery, cholera, dysmenorrhea, palpitations of the heart, the
grippe, hysteria, insomnia, neuralgia, and headaches. Used for colds, flu,
sore throat, laryngitis, gas and mild digestive disorders.
The leaves can be made into a salve or a bath additive for itching skin
conditions.
Extracts experimentally effective against herpes simplex, Newcastle
disease, and other viruses. The oil stops spasms of smooth muscles.
Externally, helps rheumatism, neuralgia, headaches, and migraines.
Peppermint tea is a valuable old-time beverage which tends to relieve
stomach gas, flatulence, and resultant distress. As a harmless,
caffeine-free beverage it will not cause restlessness or keep you awake at
night.
A wholesome tisane for every member of the family. For young children,
1 or 2 tbsp. of the tea can be sweetened with
honey.
When queasiness, nausea, a feeling of fullness, or severe vomiting are
presenting problems, a single cup of peppermint tea, drunk in sips and as
warm as possible, will dispel these acute disturbances.
Peppermint tea promotes bile flow, improves bile production in the liver,
and also exercises a positive influence on pancreatic function. Avoid
peppermint in all forms if internal ulcers are present.
May interfere with iron absorption.
Oil is toxic if taken internally in large doses; causes dermatitis.
Menthol, the major chemical component of peppermint oil, may cause allergic
reactions. Avoid prolonged use of the essential oil as an inhalant.
Mint should not be given to children for more than a week at a time
without a break. Do not give any form of mint directly to young babies.
Peppermint can reduce milk flow; take internally with caution if breast
feeding.
Check with the pediatrician before giving peppermint to a child. |
Peppermint
