Looking for a healthier alternative to soda or sugary drinks? Mint-infused water is an excellent solution!
Photo via Medical News Today
Mint is the name for over a dozen of plant species, including spearmint and peppermint, which are known for the cooling sensation they impart and a popular ingredient in several foods and beverages, ranging from teas, sauces, salads, and desserts!
Here are science-based health benefits of mint leaves, according to Healthline:
#1 Improves Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)
IBS is a common digestive tract disorder and it is very uncomfortable!
It is characterized by digestive symptoms like stomach pain, gas, bloating, and changes in bowel habits. Although treatment for IBS often includes changes in your diet and taking medications, some research shows that taking peppermint oil as an herbal remedy might also be helpful!
The menthol in peppermint is thought to help alleviate IBS symptoms through its relaxing effects on the muscles of the digestive tract.
#2 May Help Relieve Indigestion
Mint may also be effective at relieving other digestive problems such as an upset stomach and indigestion.
Indigestion occurs when food sits in the stomach for too long before passing into the rest of the digestive tract, and multiple studies have shown that food passes through the stomach quicker when people drink peppermint tea or mint-infused water.
#3 Improves Cold Symptoms
Many over-the-counter cold and flu treatments contain menthol, a primary compound in any mint leaves, especially peppermint.
Many people believe that menthol is an effective nasal decongestant that can get rid of congestion and improve airflow and breathing, however, multiple studies show that menthol has no decongestant function.
But, research also shows that menthol can subjectively improve nasal breathing, this means that although menthol doesn’t work as a decongestant, it can make people feel like they are breathing through their nose easier.
Photo via Medical News Today
Although mint leaves are very beneficial, they can be harmful if you suffer from acid reflux. By prompting your body to create more bile, mint leaves can actually harm the esophageal valve, and can actually cause more bile to leave your stomach and enter your esophagus causing further problems.
There are a lot of advantages in consuming mint leaves, but that does need to be weighed with any possible disadvantages.
This healthy herb is available to most people and can really help alleviate certain health problems.
By: Aishah Akashah Ahadiat
