Characteristics of Mint

Mint is one of the most popular aromatic plants that grows wild in most parts of the world. It comes from the plant Mentha piperita and is closely related to spearmint and spearmint. We will find mint in various varieties such as: forest mint, long-leaf mint, round-leaf mint, melanizing mint, etc.

Mint has white or purple fragrant flowers that bloom in early summer and autumn. It is an herb without many requirements and can grow in sunny, semi-shady places, an ideal plant for creating a rock garden. It is often grown in a pot for the needs of the kitchen since its taste and aroma awaken the tongue whether it is in a drink, in a salad or in cooked foods.

Mint spreads easily in the area where it grows and multiplies by rhizomes. It needs a lot of water and is widely cultivated for the essential oil it contains. The yield of essential oil can reach up to 8 liters per year per hectare of production. Climatic conditions, variety, soil composition, fertilization and other factors contribute significantly to this.

History of Mint

According to mythology, the Minthi was a nymph who lived in the underworld and transformed into a plant to escape the punishment of the gods. The plant first appeared on Mount Minthi in Triphylia. Since ancient times, the herb was dedicated to the god of the underworld and the name mint comes from the location where it first appeared.

From ancient times to the present day, it has been used as a fresh or dried aromatic in cooking, winemaking and pharmacy. The ancient Greeks scented bath water with dried mint leaves for revitalization and relaxation. Its therapeutic properties as a stomach-friendly herb have been appreciated by the ancient healers Hippocrates and Galen, who recommended it against indigestion, gastritis and sore throats.

Today, mint is an essential ingredient in herbal medicine. Along with mastic and spearmint, it is considered an effective herb for treating irritable bowel symptoms, digestive disorders, and oral hygiene.

Ingredients

Peppermint essential oil from the leaves, flowers and thin branches of the plant, collected in the morning hours using the hydrodistillation method

Chemical composition of peppermint essential oil

Menthol and menthone 50% (the main ingredients responsible for the characteristic aroma of mint), menthofyran, 1,8-cineole, limonene,

Instructions for use

For perimenopausal symptoms.

- Combine peppermint oil with evening primrose oil and essential oil of mastic and massage into joints in the morning to reduce the intensity and appearance of hot flashes. Leave on for 10 minutes and then rinse with warm water.

- Use it in making incense sticks, candles and soaps.

- Add 3 drops of peppermint essential oil and 3 drops of citronella to 100 ml of water and spray in the corners of the house and on the curtains to repel mosquitoes and other insects.

- Pour a few drops into the ceramic burner to refresh the room with fresh energy.

- Mix 1-2 drops of peppermint essential oil in 100 ml of almond oil and apply to hands for foot massage or reflexology.

- It combines well with essential oils of mint, mastic, citronella, rosemary, and chocolate.

Chinese medicine - Ayurveda

In PKI, mint is known as Bo He and is used for the lung and liver meridians. It has a cooling nature and helps expel hot wind from the liver, moves Qi energy and clears the mind.

Mint is also recommended in Ayurvedic healing methods to balance fire and earth. Its energy is cool and at the same time mildly warming. Its use is helpful during the summer months and in moderate amounts calms the vata energy.

Useful tips

- The use of essential oils should be avoided during pregnancy, breastfeeding and by young children.
- Avoid direct contact with skin, eyes and mouth.
- Always use essential oils dissolved in a base oil or other catalyst.