| Common name(s): |
peppermint |
| Family: |
Lamiaceae |
|
Origin:
|
Mediterranean Europe, Middle East |
| Parts used: |
aerial |
| Constituents: |
volatile oil (methol, menthone and jasmone) tannins, bitter, phenolic acids (rosmarinic, chlorogenic, caffeic), flavonoids (luteolin, rutin, hesperidin), gum, resins, nutrients (carotenes, choline, vitamin E, minerals) |
| Therapeutic actions: |
carminative, antispasmodic, aromatic, diaphoretic, nervine, anti-septic, analgesic, anti-microbial, anti-inflammatory, decongestant, anti-tussive |
| Organs or systems affected: |
digestive system, blood, respiratory system, central nervous system, immune system |
| Main medicinal uses: |
- balances bodily fluids
- relieves headaches, muscle and nerve pain
- calms stomach muscles
- fights intestinal colic and flatulence
- boosts immune system
|
| Counterindications: |
Peppermint is believed to be generally safe when consumed in amounts normally found in food. The essential oil present side effects if used in large quantities. Headaches, heart burn, and allergic reactions may occur with excessive use
|
