When we list out the food items of healthy and medicinal value, time and again the name of herbs are left out. The fact is that there are a lot of herbs, which have high nutritional and medicinal value and Mint or Pudina occupies a top place in this list. Most of the people are unaware that it is not only a flavor enhancer used in cuisines, but also has a plethora of medicinal benefits. The antioxidant properties of this herb are amazing. Mint comprises around 15 to 20 species and includes peppermint and spearmint. Mint oil, a product made out of mint is used in gums, pain balms, toothpaste, beauty products etc.
Indigestion and IBS (Irritable bowel syndrome) - The calming and relaxing effect of mint has a soothing effect on the intestine, which helps to control indigestion, flatulence, acidity and stomach cramps and upsets.
Home remedy for cold – From ages, mint has been used as a home remedy for treating common cold and cough. Natural menthol present in mint acts as a decongestant and helps to loosen up and oust out the phlegm. Taking a steam with few drops of peppermint oil will help bring relief to sinusitis, as the nasal passage will be cleared. Mint has strong anti- inflammatory as well as anti- bacterial features, which will sooth a sore throat and prevent infection . Just add a few leaves to the water, when you are making tea and feel the difference.
Allergies – In recent times, there has been a rapid increase in skin allergies and allergic asthma due to lifestyle changes and pollution. Rosmarinic acid found in mint leaves act as an anti – inflammatory substance which acts as a natural cure for allergies. This hinders the production of leukotrienes in the body which causes allergic rhinitis. The soothing effect of mint, the anti – inflammatory and anti – bacterial properties aids to maintain an acne and blemish free skin. It is one of the ingredients widely used in natural beauty products to enhance the glow of the skin.
Painkiller - Mint extracts and oil is a major component in many of the pain balms and medicines. It has the power to reduce aches and pains when applied externally. Even consumption in the form of tea is said to calm the nerves and muscles. Women can find relief from menstrual pains, cramps, and other associated discomforts by taking in mint.
Oral and dental health – Toothpaste companies doesn’t use mint as an ingredient only for the mouth freshness and preventing bad breath, this herb has anti - bacterial and anti – inflammatory properties which will help in the overall dental and oral health. Chewing few leaves of fresh mint will ensure that you won’t get bad breath.
In addition to the above-mentioned uses, mint is also said to have anti - carcinogenic benefits and is useful in improving the overall immunity of the body.
Please don’t limit the use of mint leaves as a garnish or in biriyani or mint chutney, flare up your imagination. You can use them liberally in all curries, salads, cocktail and mocktail drinks to get the zing and flavor. When combined with fruits it imparts divine taste, so don’t be stingy while using them in fruit salads, fruit puddings, chocolate cookies etc. Tickle your imagination and sky is the limit.
Dr. Anita Mani
Infertility& Surrogacy Specialist at Gift IVF Centre
Infertility& Surrogacy Specialist at Gift IVF Centre
anitadane@gmail.com
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Dr. Anita Mani is a renowned infertility specialist in south India with 15 years experience in ART (Assisted Reproductive Technology). Dr. Anita has successfully set up ART hospitals in Cochin and Bangalore, along with her spouse Dr. S Mani, who specialises in surrogacy. She completed MRCOG, from Royal College of Obstetrician and Gynaecologist London, DFFP from ART Warwick university and worked in UK for 5 years. Dr. Anitha believes in scientific and ethical practice and is currently the director of Gift Gyno IVF centre Cochin and Bangalore. Apart from advanced laparoscopic surgeries, she is also an expert in various ART techniques including IVF, IUI, ICSI , donor egg / sperm and surrogacy. Her proficiency is in genetic abnormalities and high risk pregnancies.