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All articles are commissioned by and represent the sole copyright of, The Health Network Company (NZ) Ltd. Reproduction, duplication and/or transfer by any means electronic or otherwise is strictly prohibited. Breach of copyright will be pursued to the full extent of any applicable laws. Disclaimer If you are concerned about your health or treatment, always see your own doctor.
These health guides are no substitute for proper diagnosis and treatment from your own health professional.
Peppermint
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Mentha haplocalyx, M.arvensis
Peppermint is a general stimulant. The active ingredient in peppermint that makes this herb so effective is 'menthol'. Its essential oils stimulate the gallbladder and encourage bile secretion, while helping the muscle linings of the stomach and intestines to function smoothly.
This herb with its digestive and heat dispersing effects is often used for colds, fever, headache, laryngeal swelling, weak stomach, digestive upsets, and flatulence. In recent years, researchers have found that it can help those people having the condition, irritable bowel syndrome, a common but hard to treat ailment with no known cause.
It has a calming and relaxing effect on those who suffers from tension and stress. Mint has antibacterial properties, and can reduce inflammation, increase perspiration and relax spasms. It also relieves itching of skin. Peppermint preparations are often used to help clear congestion in the head and upper respiratory tract, and it is also useful for sore muscles and cooling down inflammation.
Peppermint oil is highly concentrated, and should only be used in small recommended amounts. Pure menthol is poisonous and should not be taken internally. Mint may decrease milk flow in womem who are breast-feeding.
References
- Tierra M.The Way of Herbs. New York. Pocket Books. 1990.
- Black P. The Illustrated Herbal. Hamlyn. 1987
- Boxer A, Black P.The herb Book. Reed International Books Limited. 1980.
- Burch E (N.D.).The Complete Herbal Companion.Harper Collins 2000
- L’Orang D.The Herbal Healing Secrets of the Orient.Prentice Hall 1998
- Tierra M.The ways of Chinese Herbs.Pocket Books. 1998.
- Liu HC.Chinese System of Food Cures.Pelandok Publication.1989.
- Dr.Hong YH, PhD, Hsu CS, PhD. Commonly Used Chinese Herbs.Oriental Healing Arts Institute, 1980.
- Dr.Hong YH, PhD. How to Treat Yourself with Chinese Herbs.Oriental Healing Arts Institute. 1993.
- Murray M, Pizzorno J.The Encyclopaedia of Natural Medicines. Prima Pub. 1998.
- Tierra L.The Herbs of Life.Freedom, CA. Crossing Press. 1992.
- Dr.Walker M.Olive leaf extract. Kensington books. 1997
- Kloss J, Promise M.Back to Eden, revised version. Mass Market Paperback. 1989.
- Prevention Magazine (editors).The complete book of natural & medicinal cures. Health books. Berkley Publishing Group, 1996.
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