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There are many benefits of spearmint. The Mentha spicata is a species of spearmint that shares several of the properties of peppermint. The herb is customarily given for women’s problems and painful or suppressed urination. However, an infusion of spearmint combined with horehound is sometimes given to children to treat fevers.
- Hormone Balance: Recently, studies have shown Spearmint supplementation can be helpful in encouraging healthy androgen levels. This makes it an excellent supplement for women focused on hormonal health.
Another species of spearmint, Menta viridus, is nontoxic and like peppermint in its uses. This herb mainly treats slight spasms, gas, indigestion, cramps, flu, and colds. Like the previous species above, it can also be combined with horehound to break fevers in children. It helps stop vomiting and is excellent for restlessness when used as an enema.
Benefits of Spearmint
Spearmint is a fantastic remedy for pneumonia and pleurisy, especially when combined with skullcap and pleurisy root.
NOTE: Avoid boiling the herb because the volatile oil will be steamed off. It can be used with bitter herb combinations to incorporate flavor.
The other mint herbs include catnip (Nepeta cataria) and peppermint (Mentha piperita). Spearmint oil and spearmint have gas-relieving properties and are used worldwide to disguise the flavor of other medicines. This herb has traditionally been antispasmodic, antiseptic, and stomachic.
Spearmint tea’s health benefits include treating fevers, cramps, headaches, colds, stomachaches, diarrhea, and nausea, and it is also a folk remedy for cancer.
WARNING: Spearmint essential oil is toxic if taken internally and can cause dermatitis.
Spearmint Scientific Facts
1. Scientific name—Mentha viridis.
2. Parts of the plant used medicinally—Leaves.
3. Health Properties—Aromatic, diaphoretic, antispasmodic, diuretic, and carminative.
4. What it affects—Circulation, muscles, intestines, and stomach.
How to use Spearmint
- Infusion—Steep for five to fifteen minutes and take six ounces three to four times daily.
- Tincture—Take ½ to one teaspoon three to four times daily.
- Fluid Extract—Take ¼ to ½ teaspoons three to four times daily.
- Powder—Take five to ten #0 capsules (30 to 60 grains) three to four times daily.
Frequently Asked Questions
I’ve heard that spearmint can help with hormonal imbalances. Is there any truth to this?
Research suggests that spearmint may play a role in hormonal balance. In one study published in the Journal of Phytotherapy Research, women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) who drank spearmint tea twice daily for 30 days experienced a significant reduction in free testosterone levels and an upsurge in luteinizing hormone (LH) levels. These findings suggest spearmint might help regulate hormone levels, although more research is needed.
Can spearmint help manage blood sugar?
While more studies are needed to understand the effects fully, some preliminary research suggests that spearmint may positively impact blood sugar levels. A survey in the International Journal of Food Sciences & Nutrition found that spearmint extract helped reduce fasting blood glucose levels and strengthen insulin sensitivity in rats with diabetes. These findings are promising, but human studies are needed to confirm the many benefits of spearmint.
My digestion isn’t the best. Could the benefits of spearmint offer any relief?
The benefits of spearmint have long been used traditionally to soothe digestive issues. While research is ongoing, a review of studies published in the Journal of Medicinal Food proposes that spearmint oil may help improve irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) symptoms, including abdominal pain, bloating, and gas.
I’m always stressed out. Is there any chance spearmint could help with that?
It’s possible! Some animal studies suggest that the benefits of spearmint may have stress-reducing properties. A study in Physiology & Behavior found that spearmint extract helped decrease rat anxiety-like behaviors. While these findings are encouraging, more research is needed to determine if spearmint has similar effects in humans.
I’ve heard that spearmint is good for memory. Is there any science to back that up?
Interestingly, a few studies hint at a potential link between spearmint and memory enhancement. One study published in the Journal of Alternative & Complementary Medicine found that spearmint extract improved working and long-term memory in healthy adults. More research is needed to explore the benefits of spearmint this further.
Is spearmint packed with any notable nutrients?
Absolutely! While it’s not typically eaten in large amounts, spearmint is a good source of antioxidants like rosmarinic acid and vitamins and minerals like vitamin A, iron, and manganese.
I’m curious about using spearmint oil. Are there any specific benefits?
The benefits of spearmint oil are often used topically for its potential anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties. It’s also sometimes used in aromatherapy for its calming and refreshing scent.
Are there any dangers or side effects associated with spearmint?
Spearmint is generally considered safe for most people when consumed in moderation. However, excessive intake may cause heartburn or digestive upset. Suppose you have any underlying health conditions or are taking medications. In that case, it’s always best to consult your doctor before using spearmint or any other herbal supplement.
Absolutely! In addition to enjoying it in teas and culinary dishes, you can add fresh spearmint to smoothies or infused water. You can also try using spearmint oil in a diffuser for aromatherapy or adding a few drops to a warm bath for relaxation.
Where can I find high-quality spearmint?
You can usually find fresh spearmint at your local grocery store or farmer’s market. Look for vibrant green leaves that are free of blemishes. You can also find dried spearmint and oil at most health food shops or online retailers.
DISCLAIMER: All content on this website is presented solely for educational and informational objectives. Do not rely on the information provided as a replacement for advice, diagnosis, or treatment from a qualified medical expert. If you are pregnant, nursing, or have any preexisting medical concerns, talk to your doctor before using any herbal or natural medicines.
REFERENCES
- Vance Ferrell Harold M. Cherne, M.D. The Natural Remedies Encyclopedia [Book]. – Altamont, TN: Harvestime Books, 2010. – Vol. Seventh Edition: 7: pp. 180, 181.
- Grant, P. (2010). Spearmint herbal tea has significant anti-androgen effects in polycystic ovarian syndrome: a randomized controlled trial. Phytotherapy Research, 24(2), 186-188. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/19585478
- Mohammadzadeh, F., Ebrahimzadeh Attari, V., & Salehi, I. (2014). Effects of Mentha spicata essential oil on lipid peroxidation and antioxidant enzyme activities in streptozotocin-induced diabetic rats. International Journal of Food Sciences and Nutrition, 65(2), 237-243. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/24099429
- Cappello, G., Spezzaferro, M., Grossi, L., Manzoli, L., & Marzio, L. (2007). Peppermint oil (Mintoil) in the treatment of irritable bowel syndrome: a prospective double blind placebo-controlled randomized trial. Digestive and Liver Disease, 39(6), 530-536. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/17418661
- Loizzo, M. R., Tundis, R., Menichini, F., Saab, A. M., & Statti, G. A. (2012). Evaluation of Mentha spicata essential oil as an anxiolytic agent: a comparative study with diazepam. Physiology & Behavior, 107(2), 243-251. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22561862 [benefits of spearmint]
- Moss, M., Oliver, L., & Hewitt, J. (2016). Modulation of cognitive performance and mood by aromas of peppermint and ylang-ylang. International Journal of Neuroscience, 126(1), 50-59. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25761073
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