It's spring! That means it's time to indulge in refreshing tastes and pleasant scents - like mint!
From chewing gum to tea bags, mint has countless applications and uses. It also has an impressive amount of health benefits for the mind and body.
Keep reading, and we'll share the 10 best benefits of mint.
At a Glance: Benefits of Mint
- Mint leaves are filled with nutrients like fiber and vitamin A
- Mint tea can improve digestive health and treat bloating or gas
- Mint leaves can support your immune system
- Mint tea can help treat cold and flu symptoms
- Drinking mint tea can reduce allergy symptoms
- Mint can help soothe red or irritated skin
- Mint can promote fresh breath
- The aroma of peppermint oil may be able to improve memory and learning
- Mint can have a relaxing effect, which can reduce stress
- Mint can improve brain function
See Related: 5 Herbal Remedies for Stress and Anxiety
#1. Mint Leaves Are Filled With Nutrients
You know that spinach and kale are packed with nutrients and antioxidants, but did you know that mint leaves do, too? Mint leaves may not replace your go-to green salad, but they are good for more than freshening your breath!
Mint tea is a tasty and refreshing way to consume a variety of nutrients, including:
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Fiber, to maintain a healthy bowel
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Vitamin A, to prevent cardiovascular disease and improve eye health
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Vitamin C, to support immune function and enhance tissue repair
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Calcium, to maintain bone health
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Iron, to support blood health
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Folate, for producing red and white blood cells
#2. Mint Tea Can Improve Your Digestive Health
Mint is known to help relieve irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) symptoms and support gut health. Whether you struggle with bloating or gas, a mug of herbal tea with mint could be what you need to feel at ease!
#3. Mint Leaves Can Help Boost Your Immune System
Mint contains nutrients and antioxidants. Antioxidants are powerful compounds that can help fight against damage caused by free radicals. This can have a powerful impact on your immune system. That ties into our next point!
Bonus: Vitamin E for Skin: Benefits, Products, & More
#4. Mint Can Be Used to Reduce Flu and Cold Symptoms
In addition to boosting your immune system, mint can also reduce flu and common cold symptoms. Though mint leaves cannot cure a cold or flu, they can make the symptoms a bit more manageable.
Studies show that drinking mint tea or consuming mint can help improve nasal breathing, which can decongest your sinuses. It even has antibacterial effects. Plus, a warm cup of mint tea is just so cozy and comforting!
#5. Drinking Mint Tea Can Improve Allergy Symptoms
Mint has anti-inflammatory properties, which means it may be able to reduce symptoms that come with allergies. Plus, it contains an agent known as rosmarinic acid that has anti-allergenic effects.
So, if you feel a stuffy nose and itchy eyes coming, try drinking peppermint tea and see if that helps!
#6. Mint Can Soothe Skin Irritation and Redness
Like many other botanicals, mint is a great addition to your skincare routine for many reasons. It contains compounds like vitamin A and salicylic acid that are well-known in the skincare world for their skin health benefits.
On top of that, the cooling sensation of mint can calm skin irritation, and its antibacterial properties can prevent acne. There's very little this plant can't do!
#7. Mint is Excellent for Oral Health and Hygiene
There's a reason why most chewing gum and toothpaste are mint or peppermint flavored. If you need to mask bad breath, just use toothpaste, mouthwash, or gum that is mint or peppermint flavored. You can even drink peppermint tea or green tea with mint leaves for the same effect.
Additionally, mint contains a compound called menthol, which has many potential health benefits of its own.
#8. The Aroma of Mint Can Improve Memory and Learning
Aromatherapy is a powerful practice, especially when paired with other mindfulness rituals. If you want to switch up your aromatherapy routine, try using mint or peppermint essential oils.
Not only will it reinvigorate and energize your mind, but peppermint oil may be able to improve memory and learning, according to a 2022 animal study.
#9. Mint Can Have a Relaxing Effect, Which Can Reduce Stress and Fatigue
Some research shows that mint can help combat feelings of stress, anxiety, and frustration. The aroma of mint or peppermint oil can also calm your nerves, helping you feel more relaxed and empowered.
Whether you sip peppermint tea, try spearmint leaves, or chew breath mints, this refreshing aroma may be what you need to get a handle on your stress!
#10. Mint Can Help Improve Brain Function
Mint actually has a lot of benefits for the mind. In addition to reducing stress and improving memory, it can also improve brain function.
From peppermint oil capsules to mint essential oil, this plant can increase alertness and prevent mental fatigue.
The Bottom Line
Whether you use peppermint oil or breath mints, there are many ways to indulge in the health benefits of mint. If you're trying to manage an upset stomach, kill your bad breath, or boost your brain function, this herbal remedy could be the key!
Keep Reading: Your Skin’s Barrier: Why It’s Such a Big Deal
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People Also Ask
What are the benefits of mint?
Some of the benefits of mint include aiding digestive health, maintaining immune function, and soothing cold symptoms. Plus, it can be quite refreshing and energizing!
Is it good to eat mint every day?
Yes, it can be good to eat mint every day! However, it might be a good idea to consult with a healthcare provider before doing so. You can have mint in teas or other beverages for a mild and balanced consumption method.
What does mint do to the body?
Mint has a few wonderful benefits for the body. It also contains a number of powerful nutrients, including fiber and vitamin A. This supports the immune system, improves eye health, and maintains cardiovascular function.
Is drinking fresh mint good for you?
Drinking fresh mint, whether it be in tea or tonics, can be a healthy addition to your wellness routine. Some people find that drinking fresh mint can reduce indigestion, support mental clarity, and freshen your breath!
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