Refreshing and wholesome: Peppermint

The refreshingly sharp, cool minty scent of peppermint isn’t just a great way to complement summer cocktails and sweet food — this amazing plant also has health benefits and healing properties, and not just when it comes to respiratory illnesses. The oil in peppermint leaves is mentally stimulating, acts as an antiviral and promotes digestion to boot. In the following, we’d like to tell you a little more about this fragrant herb and give you a deliciously refreshing peppermint-inspired recipe that you can try out this summer.

 

1. Peppermint as a treatment for indigestion

If you’re suffering from indigestion or you’ve just eaten a heavy meal, peppermint can help restore balance in your stomach and intestines by inducing the secretion of gastric juices. This in turn stimulates your digestion and appetite, thus effectively preventing abdominal pain by relieving intestinal bloating. If you suffer from chronic stomach problems, try combining peppermint with chamomile (e.g. in a tea infusion or the like).

2. Peppermint as a treatment for irritable bowel syndrome

Because the drugs typically used to treat this common ailment often have uncomfortable side effects, peppermint is a great alternative. Peppermint relaxes the intestinal muscles and calms the nerves, while the menthol contained in peppermint reduces pain symptoms. Taking enteric-coated peppermint oil capsules is recommended to maximize the associated health benefits.

3. Peppermint as a treatment for respiratory diseases

Peppermint oil promotes circulation, acts as an anti-bacterial and ensures that the airway remains free and clear. Simply take a bath with peppermint oil or diffuse it into the air with an aroma diffuser to take advantage of these health benefits.

4. Peppermint as a treatment for headaches

If you suffer from tension headaches (also called stress headaches), peppermint oil can help to relax the muscle contractions that cause them. Simply apply a few drops of the oil to the forehead and temples. By the way — peppermint oil is just as effective as the pain pills commonly sold at the pharmacy, without the potential adverse effects when taken in the long term.

5. Peppermint to promote oral hygiene

Raw peppermint leaves or peppermint tea (cold or hot) have antiseptic properties and are therefore ideal for use as a mouthwash. While acting to alleviate inflammation of the oral mucosa, the menthol in peppermint ensures long-lasting fresh breath.

 

Our recipe recommendation: Refreshing lime- and mint-infused water

The cold version of this drink is incredibly refreshing on hot summer days. In the winter, simply pouring hot water over the ingredients is a great way to combat the cold!

• 1 l (approx. 32 fluid ounces, or 4 cups) of cold water (non-carbonated)
• 8 leaves of fresh mint
• 1 roughly thumb-sized piece of fresh ginger
• 2 limes
• Ice cubes

 

1. Wash and finely chop the mint; wash the ginger and cut into thin slices. Squeeze the limes.
2. Pour the ingredients and water into a large pitcher, add ice cubes and allow to infuse. If you prefer it a bit sweeter, you can add a little honey or agave syrup.
3. Enjoy!