Take note! These are the healing properties of peppermint.

Spearmint (Mentha spicata) is an aromatic plant from the Lamiaceae family, known for its refreshing aroma, mild flavor, and glossy green leaves. Its use dates back to civilizations such as the Egyptian, Greek, and Roman, where it was valued for both its therapeutic properties and its ability to improve digestion and relieve common ailments.

Today, it remains one of the most popular natural remedies in traditional herbal medicine and alternative medicine.

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Below are some of its main healing properties, supported by ancient experience and recent scientific studies:

1.- Relief from digestive problems

One of the best-known uses of peppermint is as a digestive aid. Consuming it as an infusion helps:

• Reduce abdominal inflammation
• Soothe stomach cramps
• Reduce gas and flatulence
• Stimulate appetite in people with little desire to eat

It is also used to relieve symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), thanks to its ability to relax the muscles of the gastrointestinal tract.

2.- Analgesic and antispasmodic effect

Peppermint contains compounds such as carvone, which act as mild muscle relaxants. It is used to relieve mild headaches, menstrual cramps, and muscle tension when applied as an essential oil or in warm compresses.

3.- Improves respiratory health

Thanks to its minty aroma, peppermint is useful for relieving nasal congestion, coughs, and other cold symptoms. Its vapor helps clear the airways and facilitates breathing, which is why it is often included in homemade vaporizers or expectorant teas.

4.- Antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties

Studies have shown that peppermint has antibacterial effects that can help fight minor infections. It also has anti-inflammatory properties that can be beneficial for oral conditions such as gingivitis and for soothing throat irritations.

5.- Stress reduction and improved mood

The aroma of peppermint has a calming effect that can help reduce stress, anxiety, and mental fatigue. It's used in aromatherapy to promote relaxation and overall well-being.

How can peppermint be used?

• Infusion: One of the most common ways to prepare tea is with fresh or dried leaves. It's recommended to drink it after meals.
• As an essential oil: For massages, vaporizations or aromatherapy.
• In poultices: To relieve muscle or headache pain.
• Natural mouthwashes: To freshen breath and care for gums.

Precautions and recommendations

Although it's a safe plant for most people, excessive consumption is recommended to be avoided. Pregnant or breastfeeding women should consult their doctor before using it for medicinal purposes. It's also not recommended for cases of severe heartburn or reflux, as it can aggravate some symptoms.

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Peppermint is much more than an aromatic ingredient: it is a plant with a long history of medicinal uses that can be an excellent natural ally for physical and emotional well-being. Whether in the form of an infusion, oil, or topical application, its healing properties continue to be valued by both traditional medicine and modern science.

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