Peppermint and Digestive System Support
Throughout history, peppermint (Mentha piperita L.) leaves have been used in traditional medicine practices. It is one of the most widely consumed herbal teas. Peppermint herb contains antiviral and antibiotic substances, including bicycloelemene and tannin. These substances, plus the combination of pulegone and viridiflorol, explain its effectiveness against influenza viruses and herpes simplex virus (Petersen, 2020). Not only does peppermint have antiviral and antibiotic therapeutic actions, but it is also an analgesic, antibacterial, antimicrobial, anticancer, antioxidant, antiseptic, antispasmodic, a cholagogue, demulcent, and a diaphoretic, to name a few. Peppermint is an adaptogen, meaning it can read the body’s biggest stressor and adapt to support the need and restore balance. For example, peppermint can be used to help you sleep or to stimulate you depending on your need.
One of the largest medicinal uses has been to support the digestive system. The antispasmodic effects of peppermint help to calm the stomach muscles which soothes an upset stomach, aids in constipation, and digestion. The menthol found in peppermint has an anti-inflammatory and antispasmodic effect which supports most gastrointestinal conditions, including irritable bowel syndrome, bloating, and excessive flatulence. A 2015 randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical study of 72 patients found the consumption of 180 milligrams of peppermint three times daily over the course of four weeks resulted in a 40% decrease in total IBS symptoms (Cash, 2015). Although peppermint has been considered safe to use and has had no adverse effects reported, it is recommended to use caution and consult with a medical professional if you are taking certain antibiotics, have GERD, a hiatal hernia, or kidney stones.
Preparing Peppermint Tea & My Experience
To make 2 cups of tea I am going to use 2 tablespoons of peppermint leaves and 2 cups of spring water. I start by boiling my water in a stainless-steel tea pot. Then, I add 2 tablespoons of peppermint leaves to my French press. Once the water has started to boil, I add it to my French press, cover, and allow it to steep for 7 minutes. Once steeped, I strain and pour the tea into my cup, adding a little honey for sweetness and extra medicinal benefits.
My assignment was to consume peppermint tea over a 24-hour period and I was really pleased with the results. I noticed a significant change in my digestive system, less bloating and more ease in digestion. Not only did I notice digestive changes, but I also felt refreshed, clean, and had an overall sense of wellbeing. The peppermint tea was very soothing. I played with trying it at different times of the day to feel the apoptogenic effect. I noticed that when I drank it later in the evening it was very relaxing and when I drank it during the day while doing schoolwork I found it to be mentally and physically stimulating. Overall, I am adding peppermint to my go to list because of the wide range of medicinal benefits and the apoptogenic capabilities.
References
Petersen, Dorene. (2020). Anatomy and Physiology III (19th ed.). American College of Healthcare Sciences
Cash, B. D., Epstein, M. S., & Shah, S. M. (2015). A Novel Delivery System of Peppermint Oil Is an Effective Therapy for Irritable Bowel Syndrome Symptoms. Digestive Diseases and Sciences, 61(2), 560–571. https://doi.org/10.1007/s10620-015-3858-7
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