Peppermint seems to be one of the hallmarks of the holiday season. From candy canes on the Christmas tree to peppermint-flavored candies and coffees, it’s hard to escape sometimes.
Peppermint might add to your enjoyment of the holiday season, but it definitely isn’t the only thing peppermint is good for. There are some great health benefits and other uses, too!
Why Peppermint?
Peppermint leaves and oil have been used as an herbal medicine of sorts since as far back as 1,000 B.C. and Ancient Egypt, according to Green Med Info. In fact, peppermint leaves have even been found in Egyptian pyramids. It’s even been called “the world’s oldest medicine” (Source).
The distinct odor and refreshing flavor of peppermint has made it a popular choice for use in everything from mouthwash and toothpaste to ointments and dietary supplements. Both the peppermint leaf and oil offer a number of benefits that may help support and maintain an optimal level of health.
Possible Health Benefits
Although peppermint provides great-tasting refreshment, it is thought to provide other benefits, too. Take a look at some of them below:
- Peppermint leaf is toxic to certain harmful organisms and may provide defensive activity (Source).
- Peppermint leaves contain flavonoids and provide antioxidant support when brewed for tea (Source).
- Peppermint leaves have been known to protect the liver against specific toxins (in animals) (Source).
- Peppermint oil – when taken as a liquid or in another supplement form – is thought to help support indigestion and nausea, stomach and bowel spasms, and headaches (Source).
- Peppermint oil also contains a range of nutrients that includes iron, magnesium, calcium, vitamins A and C, omega-3s, and other nutrients (Source).
- Peppermint oil may help get rid of bad breath and support healthy teeth and gums (Source).
Peppermint essential oil may help address gas and bloating, and may even provide temporary relief from occasional aches and pains. If you’re interested in the aromatherapy uses for peppermint oil, take a look at the following posts for helpful information:
Some of Our Peppermint Favorites
It’s hard to hate peppermint, and it’s great for so much more than fresh breath and the holidays. Natural Healthy Concepts carries a wide range of products that offers the benefits of peppermint. You can find some of our favorite below!
Spry Power Peppermints (Sugar-Free) from Xlear
Maintaining fresh breath shouldn’t have to be complicated. Carrying mints or gum can help, but this healthier choice may be your best bet!
Spry Power Peppermints (Sugar-Free) from Xlear may be tiny, but they pack a big punch of peppermint. Sweetened with xylitol and made to be free of sugar, gluten, and GMOs, these mints freshen breath and may help maintain optimal oral health as well. Plus, they’re dentist recommended!
Peppermint Gels (Enteric Coated) by NOW Foods
Whether it’s fresher breath you need or a calmer stomach, peppermint is a great choice.
These Peppermint Gels (Enteric Coated) from NOW Foods helps with both. Enterically coated, they’re easier to swallow and are better absorbed by your body. A few softgels a day may help calm indigestion and give you fresher breath.
Freshening Mouthwash from Miessence
With all of the mouthwash options available, it’s hard to know what to use. If you’re in the market for a natural choice, this is a great one.
Freshening Mouthwash from Miessence is made with organic essential oils (including peppermint!) and helps freshen your breath. Alcohol-free and all-natural, it helps get rid of unpleasant bacteria and soothe your mouth. Go from having dragon breath to sweet, fresh, and pleasant breath in a matter of minutes!
Peppermint Oil (4oz.) from NOW Foods
Peppermint oil has been used for many years for aromatherapy. It’s a refreshing fragrance for any time of the year!
Peppermint Oil (4oz.) from NOW Foods is 100% pure and natural, and provides a strong and fresh peppermint fragrance. It mixes well with a number of other essential oils and helps create a revitalizing and invigorating scent for any time of the year.
Peppermint Oral Care Gel by PetzLife
Peppermint isn’t just for people. Your furry friends get to experience the health benefits of this powerful plant, too.
Peppermint Oral Care Gel from PetzLife is 100% natural and not only helps get rid of plaque and tartar from your dog’s teeth, but supports fresher breath as well. Controlling oral bacteria in your dog’s mouth is easier, and it may even help keep teeth looking whiter.
Powersmile All-Natural Whitening Toothpaste from Jasön
Many of today’s popular toothpaste brands contain triclosan, a chemical that may be harmful to your overall health. That, mixed with fluoride may be causing more harm than good — to your teeth and your health!
Powersmile All-Natural Whitening Toothpaste from Jasön provides optimal oral care without either of those ingredients. With support for whiter, healthier teeth, fresher breath, and optimal tartar control, this toothpaste option is the epitome of healthy!
Pure Mint + Echinacea Stem Cell Volume Shampoo by Acure Organics
Finding a shampoo that is good for your hair may be a real challenge sometimes, but it doesn’t have to be.
Pure Mint + Echinacea Stem Cell Volume Shampoo from Acure Organics contains ingredients that nourish and volumize your hair while giving it an intense cleansing. It’s free of parabens and other harmful chemicals, and supports healthy hair all the way down to the cellular level.
Purely Peppermint Tea from Yogi Tea
Tea is the ideal hot drink for cold winter days, but it tastes great any time of the year. When you add the benefits of peppermint, you’ve got a great-tasting way to warm up and boost your overall health!
Purely Peppermint Tea from Yogi Tea is 100% natural, USDA Organic, and it’s caffeine-free. Whether your stomach is upset or you just want a stimulant-free way to chase off the winter chills, you’ll love this delicious tea.
Are you a peppermint fan? What are your favorites ways to use it? Let us know by leaving a comment below.
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