7 Health benefits of mint leaves: uses, side effects, interactions

Mint leaves are a type of leaf from the herbal plant species Mentha which is widely used in food, drinks, or even in concoction massage and aromatherapy oils. These tiny leaves have a slightly spicy taste with a refreshing aroma. Not infrequently, these leaves are also often used as a mixture in chewing gum and tea. Besides all that, you also shouldn't underestimate the various health benefits of mint leaves, you know!

Benefits of mint leaves for health

1. Contains a lot of nutrients

Two tablespoons of fresh mint leaves contain:

• 2 calories
• 0.12 grams of protein
• 0.48 grams of carbohydrates
• 0.03 grams of fat
• 0.30 grams of fiber.

In addition, mint leaves contain small amounts of potassium, magnesium, calcium, phosphorus, vitamin C, iron, and vitamin A.

3.Relieves IBS symptoms (Irritable Bowel Syndrome)

IBS is a common digestive tract disorder. Symptoms can include abdominal pain, gas, bloating and altered bowel habits.

To treat IBS generally requires a doctor's medication and following the correct diet. However, a study shows that using mint leaf oil can be useful as a herbal remedy for IBS.

Mint leaf oil contains a compound called menthol. This compound is thought to help relieve IBS symptoms through its relaxing effect on the muscles of the digestive tract.

4. Overcoming chafed nipples due to breastfeeding

Blistered nipples are one of the many complaints of breastfeeding mothers that it turns out that they can be overcome with mint leaves. Research has shown that applying mint to the skin can help relieve aches and pains associated with breastfeeding.

In research quoted from Healthline, breastfeeding mothers are encouraged to use various oils or products made from mint leaves around their nipples after breastfeeding. As a result, water or mint leaf oil is more effective at preventing cracked and chafed nipples than applying breast milk to the mother's nipple area.

5. Relieves colds and flu

Many cold and flu medicines on the market contain mint leaf menthol extract. Menthol extract is believed to have a decongestant effect that can loosen the congestion of the nose. The warm sensation from menthol also works to increase air flow in the respiratory tract.

6. Freshens bad breath

Chewing gum, gum, toothpaste, or mouthwash, on average, offers a mint flavor as a variant. This is because the benefits of the leaves have a fresh taste when chewed.
Experts agree that most mint-based products can treat bad breath for a few hours.

However, the scent of mint can only mask bad breath, not reduce bacteria or other compounds that cause bad breath.
On the other hand, other studies say that drinking tea mixed with mint leaves or chewing mint leaves raw can kill the bacteria that cause bad breath. This is because there is an antibacterial effect in the mint leaves.

7. Improve brain function

There are research claims that say that inhaling the essential oil scent of the mint plant can provide health benefits of enhancing brain function.

This British study tested 144 people who smelled peppermint oil for five minutes before testing. As a result, there is a significant increase in memory activity in the brain.

However, not all studies agree that mint leaf oil can benefit brain function. More research trials are needed to help understand how it works and whether or not mint leaves improve brain function.

Pay attention to this before trying to consume mint leaves

Like many other herbs, mint leaves can also have side effects on the body. Using too much peppermint essential oil can be toxic. Do not use mint to relieve digestive problems related to stomach ulcers or acid reflux (GERD) as it will worsen symptoms.

Do not apply mint oil to the face of a baby or young child as it can cause spasms that block breathing.

Be careful using leaf products if you have or have had gallstones before. Consult your doctor first before using any type of herbal.

Selecting and processing mint

To choose which mint leaves are good and fit for consumption, choose leaves that have a bright green surface and are not stained. In order to last longer, store the mint in a plastic bag or plastic container in the refrigerator for up to one week.

Basically, you can also cultivate or grow your own mint at home. Mint is a plant that does not need a large area or pot. Plant mint seeds in small pots, place them in the kitchen window where there is sunlight.

Water it diligently, within a few weeks the mint is ready to be picked and used. Planting mint in your home environment can also help repel ants and flies, as these animals tend to dislike mint's scent.