Peppermint

Mentha X piperita

Taste: Pungent, aromatic, cooling

Origin: Europe, hybridized plant

Energetics: Warming/cooling, stimulating, drying

Actions and properties: Stimulant, antispasmodic, carminative, anodyne, stimulating diaphoretic, anti-emetic

Systems: Respiratory system, digestive system, female reproductive system, muscular skeletal system,

Traditionally used for:

• Nervousness, insomnia, dizziness, fainting
• Increase respiration and oxygenation
• headaches
• mouth sores, sore throats
• stomach pain, nausea, vomiting, heartburn, flatulent colic, belching, hiccough
• Gas and bloating after a meal
• Palpitation from indigestion and gas
• Gallbladder colic
• Menstrual cramps, colic
• Indigestion and morning sickness from pregnancy
• Lactation mastitis
• Muscle tension, spasms, cramps
• Spasms and convulsions in infants
• Hot dry joints
• Colds, Flus and Fevers

Brewing instructions:

• 1-2 tsp of herb per cup of water
• Boiling water (200-212f/93-100C)
• Steep for 5-15 minutes

Contraindications/cautions: Peppermint tea should only be consumed after the first trimester when pregnant. Not recommended for children under 5 (spearmint is preferred for younger children). Avoid if you have GERD/acid reflux or gallstones. May interact with blood pressure.

Always consult a healthcare practitioner when consuming any new herb. Like all herb it is best to start with a little to make sure you are not intolerant.

Warning: This information has not been verified by Health Canada and should be considered for historical and educational purposes only.

Other uses: Flavouring in countless other products. Natural pest repellent. Used in cleaners for antimicrobial properties and to mask odours. Aromatherapy.