Peppermint (Mentha piperita)
There are dozens of species of mint. There was no difference in
their medicinal uses until after the 17th century. Peppermint is
now the preferred variety in the West. The organs/systems affected
by its use are the liver and stomach. It contains antioxidant, menthol,
tannic acid, and vitamin C. .
PARTS USED: leaves and sometimes the flowers.
WHAT IT IS USED FOR: to relax the muscles of the
digestive tract and to stimulate bile flow. Good for indigestion,
flatulence, colic and similar condition, fevers and colds (by promoting
sweating). Helps in the reduction of nausea, travel sickness, menstrual
symptoms and migraines.. The essential oils (for external use only)
contain large amounts of methanol and can be analgesic and calming.
HOW TO TAKE THIS HERB: as an infusion: 1 teaspoon
of dried herb (or two of the fresh one), pour 1 cup boiling water,
cover and let stand 10 minutes before straining and drinking; as
a compress: soak a clean pad in the infusion and apply over affected
area, to cool inflamed joints, for rheumatism, or neuralgia; for
inhalation: put several fresh leaves in boiling water, remove from
stove, inhale vapor taking care not to burn yourself with the hot
water. As tincture: follow manufacturer's instruction. As essential
oil: for external use only. Mix some drops with water and use as
a wash for itching, burns, skin irritations, ringworm, for inhalation,
or as massage oil: mix with some almond or sunflower oil.
CAUTION: The above is an information sheet. Always
consult your health provider before taking herbs. Prolonged used
of essential oil as inhalant may irritate mucous membranes, children
and babies should avoid it. High intake may interfere with iron
absorption and may reduce milk flow if breastfeeding.
SOURCES: Hoffman, David. l990. The New Holistic
Herbal. (Element) Mowrey, Daniel. 1986. The Scientific Validation
of Herbs. (Keats) Ody, Penelope. 1993. The Complete Medicinal Herbal.
(Dorling Kindersley) Rosa J. Donohue, MS, RD, CDN.
© 2004 Gay Men's Health Crisis |
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