Properties of mint decoction. Peppermint: medicinal properties and contraindications

Update: October 2018

Peppermint is a popular and widespread herbaceous plant with a specific odor from the Lamiaceae family. The cultivated species was obtained by hybridizing wild varieties of garden and watermint.

The plant is cultivated by gardeners everywhere, and is also grown on an industrial scale, especially in the Voronezh region and Krasnodar Territory. It is a valuable honey plant - the resulting honey has a pleasant mint aroma and an impeccable amber color. Prefers marshy areas, but is generally unpretentious to soil and germination conditions. Some gardeners consider the plant a weed.

The medicinal properties and contraindications of peppermint have been sufficiently studied for a long time. As a result, the plant is actively used in industrial pharmaceuticals and folk medicine, and is also used for deodorizing rooms, clothing and shoes, in cooking, perfumery, Food Industry etc.

Morphological description

The rhizome is horizontal, branched, with fibrous thin roots. The stem is straight, from 30 to 100 cm in height, hollow inside, and has 4 sides. It is typical for the plant a large number of lateral branches and leaves. The leaves are opposite, arranged crosswise, have an oblong-ovate shape and short petioles. The tips of the leaves are pointed, the base is heart-shaped and has a sharp-serrated edge.

The flowers are small in size, light purple in color, collected at the top in half-whorls, from which spike-shaped inflorescences are formed. Flowering occurs on summer period, from June to September. The fruit consists of 4 nuts and is formed quite rarely.

Procurement and storage of raw materials

The aerial part has medicinal value. For self-harvesting, mint leaves are most suitable, which should be collected in dry weather at the beginning of flowering.

The raw materials are dried in air, in the shade. If leaves are collected, they are dried on clean paper, if branches are collected, they can be dried with awnings. Mint dries well and quickly, after which it is placed for storage in cardboard boxes. The shelf life of dry raw materials is 2 years.

The raw materials should be crushed immediately before preparing the medicine, but not in advance, so as not to lose valuable essential oil.

Chemical composition of peppermint

The well-known smell of mint is nothing more than an essential oil, which the plant is very rich in. Oil is clear liquid with a greenish or yellowish tint, pleasant fresh taste and aroma. Content essential oil varies in different parts of the plant: leaves contain 2.5-4.5% essential oil, inflorescences - 4-6% liquid, and stems - up to 0.3%. How more favorable conditions growth, the large quantity essential oil contains the plant. The composition of the essential oil is represented by menthol, menthol esters (valeric and acetic acids), alpha-pinene, pulegone, cineole, dipentene, beta-phellandrene and other terpenoids.

Fresh leaves also contain tannins and resins, organic acids, betaine, carotene, trace elements, hesperidin, bitterness, vitamins, neutral saponins, glucose and other substances.

Yes, 100 g fresh leaves plants contain:

Medicinal properties of mint

The plant is used for a number of diseases. A huge contribution to the study of the properties of mint was once made by the British, who, through a series of experiments, discovered the effect of menthol on the human body. Upon contact with skin or mucous membranes, menthol causes irritation of cold receptors, stimulates the narrowing of superficial vessels and the reflex expansion of blood vessels that feed internal organs. It is this effect and the mild local anesthetic effect that is used in the relief of angina attacks ( famous drug validol).

Mint preparations have the following therapeutic effects:

• soothing;
• vasodilator;
• sedative;
• painkiller;
• antiemetic;
• antiseptic;
• anti-inflammatory;
• improves digestion and appetite;
• antispasmodic;
• carminative;
• diuretic;
• choleretic;
• anticancer.

The scope of mint is wide - it is used to treat diseases:

• viral and bacterial nature, proceeding according to the type of acute respiratory infections:, pharyngitis, bronchospasm, rhinitis, as well as;
• of cardio-vascular system: , circulatory failure, spasm coronary vessels. Also used for heart palpitations;
• nervous system: insomnia, depression, nervous agitation, stress, decreased attention and memory;
• digestive system: nausea, vomiting, spasmodic pain, colic, poor appetite, incl. caused by H. Pylori, cholelithiasis, urolithiasis, helminthic infestation, diseases of the oral cavity;
• skin and mucous membranes: itching, rash, including herpetic nature, dermatitis, burns, acne, pimples, dandruff, sweating, increased oily skin, enlarged pores and wrinkles;
• female genital area: heavy menstruation;
• pain syndrome: dental and spasms of smooth muscles, myalgia, bruises, sprains, neuralgia.

For preventive purposes, the anti-carcinogenic effect of mint is actively used, especially pronounced in the prevention of the colon, pancreas, liver, lungs, breast and prostate gland.

Plant preparations are used to improve the functioning of the immune system. Mint increases the resistance of body cells during long-term action small doses of radiation, therefore it can be used in parallel with the course of treatment of cancer, as well as in cases of living in an unfavorable radiological environment.

Contraindications to the use of mint

• Gastric achlorhydria;
• Increased acidity of gastric juice;
• Individual intolerance to plant drugs;
• Severe allergic reactions, including to food;
• Hypotension;
• , reduced ability to conceive, both in women and men;
• Severe weakness, adynamia, drowsiness;
• Children under 3 years of age, and for dosage forms With high content menthol – up to 6 years.

Use for women during pregnancy and lactation

If there are no contraindications and the doctor allows the use of mint preparations, they can be used to combat the nausea that accompanies toxicosis. But mint during pregnancy should be taken in very small doses, since pregnant women often develop allergic reactions to various plants.

It is believed that mint in small quantities improves lactation, and in large quantities it suppresses it, therefore in moderation can also be used in nursing mothers, again, if permitted by the attending physician and pediatrician. You should also ask your doctor how much mint you can drink.

Medicinal forms of mint and their uses

Infusion of mint leaves

Alcohol and water tincture is used:

• To prepare a water infusion 1 tbsp. dry mint is poured with boiling water (200 ml) and left in a thermos for 60 minutes, filtered. Take a sip 3-4 times a day to treat gastrointestinal diseases, digestive disorders, colds, coughs, and to relieve heart pain. When treating diseases of the nervous system, take 100 ml three times a day so that the last dose is before bedtime. Externally used in cosmetology to improve, eliminate fine wrinkles, increased oily skin and enlarged pores.
• To obtain an alcohol setting 1 part of dry raw material is mixed with 5 parts of vodka, kept in the dark for 14 days. Used for rubbing for certain skin diseases and migraines (rubbed on temples). Take orally diluted with water, 10-15 drops twice or thrice a day. – to relieve pain, when women's issues (heavy menstruation, menopause), for preventive purposes.

Mint decoction

1 tbsp. dry raw materials, pour 500 ml of water and cook over low heat for 15 minutes and infuse for another 15 minutes, filter. Drink 100 ml with the addition of honey (1 tsp) for nausea, rapid heartbeat, and bad breath.

• For dermatoses, add a decoction to the bath, but make it more concentrated (50 grams of herb ~ 10 liters of bath water).
• Mint decoction for hair is used as a final rinse after washing - it gets rid of excess oil, strengthens the hair roots and adds shine to the hair.

Tea with mint

The most popular medicinal form of the plant is mint tea, the benefits and harms of which have long been studied. To prepare tea, take both dried and fresh leaves in a volume of 2 tbsp. and fill them with 1 liter. boiling water in a kettle.

You should understand that mint tea is medicinal, and drink it like your usual black or green tea it is forbidden. The optimal dose for adults is 100 ml 2-3 times a day, for a child – 50 ml with the same frequency.

It is used in the treatment of colitis, spasms and pain in the gastrointestinal tract, nausea, flatulence, to improve digestion and appetite, as choleretic drug. Helps well with colds, And chronic fatigue. Prescribed for rinsing the mouth, throat and nose. Used for respiratory diseases - bronchitis, pharyngitis, rhinitis for inhalation.

Peppermint oil

It is difficult to obtain this dosage form yourself, so you should buy it already finished oil at the pharmacy. For internal use 2-4 drops are dripped onto a piece of sugar and dissolved. Renders therapeutic effect for diseases of the heart, lungs, liver and nervous system, headaches, flatulence, helps to recover after a long illness.

Externally used for spot application on acne, insect bites, temples (for headaches), joints (for joint pain), throat and chest to ease the course of colds, muscle projection (for myalgia).

Mint drops

To receive them you need to take medical alcohol 90% strength, peppermint oil and dry mint leaves. For 1 part of raw material, take 20 parts of alcohol, leave for 1 day, periodically shaking the contents. At the end, add 1 part of mint oil. Take 10 drops 2 times a day with water for digestive disorders such as cramps, nausea, flatulence, diarrhea.

Baths

For a foot bath, pour 50 grams of leaves into 1000 ml of boiling water and leave for 30 minutes under the lid. When warm, pour it into a basin and place your feet there for 15 minutes. Recommended for increased sweating legs, at night.

Pharmaceuticals

• Mint herb – used for preparing teas and infusions;
• Packaged mint tea, indicated for the conditions described above;
• Peppermint oil and menthol. They are sold in the form of independent dosage forms in bottles with a dispenser, and are also included in such drugs as Corvalol, Doctor Mom lozenges, Fitolor, Validol, Zelenin drops, Gevkamen, Menovazin, etc.
• Mint tablets that help with vomiting, nausea, gastrointestinal spasms;
• Dental drops, dental elixir.

Side effects

• Therapy with mint preparations may be accompanied by general lethargy and drowsiness, so such treatment excludes the possibility of driving a car and working with precision mechanisms, which require increased concentration.
• Another unpleasant side effect for men is a decrease in potency. However, such a reaction is rarely observed with long-term treatment in large doses and especially for those who already had problems with potency.
• It is believed that mint reduces the ability to conceive.
• People with hypersensitivity may develop allergic reactions such as rash, dermatitis,...
• Excessive consumption of mint causes heartburn.

In medicine, the analgesic, antiseptic and vasodilating properties of mint decoction are most often used. This effect is provided by menthol - a monohydric alcohol of plant nature. IN pure form It is a clear crystalline substance with a strong minty odor. It got its origins from mint Latin name Mentha.

When used externally, as part of a decoction, menthol has the property of influencing the cold receptors of the skin, causing a feeling of coolness and freshness; when used internally, it increases blood circulation, improves digestion, and tones.

Mint composition

The properties of mint decoction primarily depend on the composition of its ingredients - the original plant materials, which are the leaves and herbaceous shoots of the plant. They contain a large amount of essential oils, mainly menthol, flavonoids, saponins and other biologically active substances.

Chemical composition of peppermint:

• essential oils;
• tannins;
• flavonoids;
• glucose;
• organic acids;
• polyphenols;
• saponins;
• vitamins;
• minerals.

The essential oil for which mint is mainly valued consists of menthol and esters. Its leaves contain approximately 2-3%. In the inflorescences, the amount of oil increases and is already 4-6%. Menthol is the main one active substance, which determines the analgesic, antiseptic and tonic properties of the decoction.

Mint is also not deprived of vitamins. The composition contains vitamin A, B 1, B 2, B 3, B 6, B 9, PP. It contains a lot of vitamin C. Its amount can reach 32 mg/100 g, despite the fact that the human need for it is 80 mg per day.

Microelements include copper, manganese, zinc and iron. Macroelements are represented by calcium, potassium, sodium, magnesium, phosphorus. For medicine special meaning has potassium, it is involved in the regulation of water-salt balance and is necessary for the heart, brain, and nervous system. 100 g of mint contains about a quarter daily requirement human in this mineral – 569 mg. There is also a lot of calcium - 243 mg.

Tannins - tannins - give the broth an astringent taste. They prevent the growth of pathogenic microflora, remove toxins, and increase blood clotting. Saponins and flavonoids act in a similar way.

Interesting fact! Mint has been used for medicinal purposes since ancient times. Mention of it is found in the Gospel of Matthew, its remains were discovered in the tombs of the pharaohs.

Useful properties of the decoction

The most commonly used in medicine are: medicinal properties mint decoction:

• painkiller
• antiseptic
• vasodilator
• soothing
• tonic
• choleretic
• anti-inflammatory
• sweatshop
• laxative
• antispasmodic.

The decoction also has antiemetic properties, which makes it possible to use it as a cure for seasickness. When used externally, it accelerates wound healing, disinfects and relieves pain. When consumed internally, it strengthens the immune system, stabilizes the heart rhythm, calms and relieves stress, increases performance, restores strength, and invigorates.

Taking the decoction at night cures insomnia. In the morning it tones and fills with energy. The property of the decoction to remove toxins from the body is also known, which is used in symptomatic treatment all kinds of poisoning. Women use it to get rid of varicose veins and spider veins on the skin.

Mint decoction helps with colds. It improves sputum discharge, anesthetizes the throat for sore throat, kills pathogenic bacteria, and has an antipyretic effect. At viral diseases and influenza, the decoction helps fight infection, strengthens, and removes toxins.

Nutritionists recommend including mint decoction in your diet when losing weight, as it accelerates cellular metabolism, reduces appetite and dulls the feeling of hunger. It also helps cleanse the intestines of waste products and improves general health.

At constant use Mint infusion improves digestion and helps get rid of heartburn. It also has the property of reducing blood pressure, which is very important for hypertensive patients.

Advice! You should not overuse the decoction. In case of overdose, digestive problems, nausea, and dizziness are possible.

Application

The medicinal properties of mint decoction provided him with wide application in medicine. It is used in the treatment of diseases digestive tract, colds, heart and nervous ailments. When used externally, it helps get rid of many skin diseases, anesthetizes, and enhances regeneration processes. The decoction is also used in cosmetology. It is included in anti-aging masks and lotions.

Application in medicine

In medicine, mint decoction is used in the treatment of the following diseases:

• bronchitis
• sore throat
• pharyngitis
• asthma
• gastritis
• cholecystitis
• angina pectoris
• hypertension
• insomnia
• neuroses
• urolithiasis
• flatulence
• dermatitis
• eczema
• flu
• furunculosis
• colitis
• enterocolitis
• enteritis.

It is also used for indigestion, chronic fatigue, stress, and hysteria. During menstruation, the decoction helps reduce pain and improve mood. It is also used for obesity to enhance metabolism and reduce appetite.

Application in cosmetology

Mint decoction is used not only in medicine. It is also used in cosmetology for the preparation of refreshing lotions, rejuvenating masks, medicinal compresses. Foot baths with a decoction they help get rid of sweating, fungus, calluses, relieve fatigue and swelling.

The decoction helps get rid of shadows and bags under the eyes, tones the skin, and eliminates fine wrinkles. It is also used to narrow enlarged pores and treat acne. For men with sensitive skin, the decoction is recommended in the form of compresses after shaving.

Contraindications

Mint decoction is not useful for everyone; it should not be taken for the following diseases:

• hypotension
• individual intolerance
• acute cholecystitis.

The decoction is used with caution during pregnancy and lactation. It is not advisable to give it to children under 5 years of age because high risk development of allergic reactions. It is strictly contraindicated for infants due to possible violation respiratory function.

How to prepare mint for the winter, watch this video:

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Herbal medicine - a long time ago known species herbal treatment. Many familiar plants have medicinal properties, including peppermint. Unpretentious plants with a bright smell, everyone can grow in their own garden plot and, if necessary, use them not only for culinary purposes, but also to solve some health problems. If you take into account some contraindications, you can get significant help in the treatment of the various kinds ailments.

Where does it grow and what does it look like?

Mint is one of the most common spicy plants, numbering about 300 species (field, lemon, menthol, spearmint). The plant originates from the Mediterranean and has long been used in Ancient Greece, Rome and other countries for perfumery and medicinal purposes.

Peppermint (otherwise called “English” and “cold mint”) is a perennial herb, reaching a height of 50–100 cm. It is a cultivated plant obtained by crossing water mint and garden mint. The two main varieties of pepper are white, which has green stems, and black, which has dark red stems and dark foliage.

White peppermint has bright green leaves, green stems and pale flowers.

The plants are highly bushy. The strong tetrahedral stems can be bare or covered with sparse hairs. The pointed leaves with a serrated edge are usually oblong or ovoid in shape. Small flowers, collected in spike-shaped inflorescences, have a light purple or reddish color. Flowering begins in June - July and continues until August - September. The beginning of the accumulation of essential oils occurs simultaneously with the flowering of the plant, therefore the collection of mint is confined to the period July - August.

Black mint stems have an anthocyanin reddish color.

Currently, there are about 2 dozen selected varieties of peppermint. It is grown everywhere (in America, Europe, Asia). In Russia, industrial cultivation has been established in the Voronezh region and Krasnodar region. The most famous domestic, Belarusian and Ukrainian varieties: Prilukskaya, Medicinal 4, Ukrainian Pepper, Riddle, Charm.

A little about the characteristics of the plant: video

Medicinal properties of peppermint

The beneficial properties are explained by its unique chemical composition. Its leaves and stems contain tannins, ascorbic, caffeic and other acids, as well as vitamin P, glucose and a number of others. useful elements. The seeds contain about 20% oil.

In medicinal and for cosmetic purposes use leaves, essential oil and menthol.

The leaves are not usually used for fresh, and they prepare infusions and decoctions, as well as baths and lotions. Infusions of leaves mixed with the addition of mint oil make up the “Mint Drops” tincture, which is a means of stimulating appetite and an antispasmodic for the stomach.

Peppermint is beneficial for a number of unpleasant symptoms:

• improves digestion, helps with nausea, is used as a choleretic agent;
• acts as a mild sedative and analgesic, helps with headaches;
• in case of sleep disturbances, mint works as a weak sleeping pill;
• decoctions and infusions help stop inflammatory processes;
• mint promotes muscle relaxation, so it can be used for stomach or intestinal cramps;
• helps reduce flatulence;
• is used for complex treatment cardiovascular diseases, as it causes vasodilation;
• Brewed leaves with the addition of honey helps ease breathing during colds;
• infusions are removed itchy skin and help with other skin diseases;
• rinsing mint decoction helps with stomatitis;
• used in the treatment of diseases of the urinary system.

How does it benefit men, women and children?

For women, mint is considered especially useful: compositions are prepared on its basis for the treatment of inflammation of the female genital organs. In addition, it is recommended to take it to alleviate the condition of menopausal syndrome. Many women may be interested in the plant as cosmetic product, which reduces oily skin, tightens pores and helps eliminate acne.

For men, mint can help quit smoking if you take 2-3 sips of tea when you have a strong desire to smoke a cigarette.

For children, mint is used as a sedative. For restless babies, baths are given with the addition of mint infusion, and from the age of 3, weak tea can be given.

Uses of peppermint oil

Valuable essential oil is contained in all above-ground parts of the plant. The highest percentage of oil content is in flowers (4–6%), approximately doubled less oil contain leaves (2.4–2.75%), and very little is present in the stems. To extract the oil, mint is steam distilled. The oil is transparent, yellowish or greenish in color, with a pleasant refreshing taste and aroma. During long-term storage it thickens and darkens.

Peppermint oil is a clear, slightly yellowish liquid.

Peppermint oil is primarily used as a raw material for the production of menthol, which is used in the production of liqueurs, sweets, is added to toothpastes and powders, and is used in pharmaceuticals (menthol Vaseline for the treatment of the runny nose, menthol pencils for migraines and in its pure form for inhalation and internal use for various diseases).

Contraindications for use

Like other medicinal products, the plant has a number of contraindications. True, there are not too many of them, but take into account potential harm mint is necessary.

Complete contraindications for use:

• hypotension;
• allergy to menthol;
• varicose veins (a decrease in vascular tone when taken can aggravate the situation);
• Children under 3 years of age should not take mint preparations orally; it is especially contraindicated for infants - it can even lead to respiratory arrest;
• infertility problem (mint only makes it worse);
• increased drowsiness.

In addition to the above points, you should keep in mind that you should not drink mint tea before driving a car. There is also an incompletely verified statement about negative impact on male libido.

Long-term use can be harmful: the sphincter between the esophagus and stomach relaxes, so digestive juice is thrown into the esophagus, leading to heartburn.

Can it be used during pregnancy and breastfeeding?

Since mint is one of the the best means, helping against nausea and vomiting, it helps pregnant women cope with toxicosis.

Pregnant women should not take medications containing mint oil!

• Place 2–3 teaspoons of leaves in boiling water (200–250 ml), boil for 3–4 minutes, leave covered for 10 minutes, strain. A cup of this chilled tea, drunk before a meal, reduces nausea and increases appetite. You can also rinse your mouth with warm broth;
• If signs of nausea appear, crush a fresh mint leaf with your fingers and inhale deeply several times.

In the second trimester, which usually passes without toxicosis, mint is used to improve digestion and increase appetite by adding fresh mint leaves to food.

In the last trimester of pregnancy, decoctions are recommended for feelings of anxiety, signs of late toxicosis and itching of the skin of the abdomen and legs.

On later It is better not to use mint during pregnancy - it tones the uterus and can cause premature birth.

Pregnant women who have gallstones should not consume mint. It stimulates the secretion of bile and can cause stone displacement, which is completely undesirable during pregnancy.

Although mint is considered safe for pregnant women, it is best to consult a doctor before using it.

Breastfeeding women are not recommended to regularly consume mint as it reduces activity and can lead to problems. heart rate. Nevertheless, the plant helps with problems with lactation, as it improves blood circulation. Therefore, rare single doses of the decoction by nursing mothers are allowed.

Use for various conditions of the body

Peppermint can be used to improve the health of the body in a variety of cases.

Cold. When you have a cold, your upper arms are the first to suffer. Airways. Peppermint promotes mucus separation and is recommended as an expectorant. Inhalations with the addition of peppermint oil treat a runny nose.

Insomnia. The calming effect of mint is especially noticeable in cases of sleep problems. To relieve overexcitation and treat insomnia, alcohol tinctures of menthol and oil solutions, and at home you can use a concentrated decoction or infusion of leaves.

Hangover. Considering that mint relieves nausea and heaviness in the stomach and reduces headaches, it is an indispensable tool relief of hangover syndrome.

Mint tea- the most popular way to consume mint

Menstrual irregularities. Peppermint tea and oil help relieve pain during menstruation, stabilize hormonal levels and regulate the cycle.

Diabetes. For diabetes mellitus, mint will be beneficial as a choleretic agent, as well as a means of stimulating the functioning of the pancreas. Warm mint infusion helps lower glucose levels. Still, doctors recommend that diabetics exercise caution when consuming it.

Gastritis with increased acidity. Although in some cases constant use mint leads to heartburn, it is successfully used to treat gastritis and even peptic ulcer. This is explained by the plant’s ability to relieve nervous excitement and nausea, often accompanying diseases stomach, as well as its bactericidal effect.

Skin rashes. Mint lotions and baths help relieve irritation and itching of the skin and eliminate rashes.

Russian folk medicine has long used mint for refreshing purposes, to intensify the secretion of bile and sweating. Kidney stone disease is treated fresh juice mint leaves, the same juice with the addition of white wine is an effective diuretic.

In July-August mint blooms and it is at this time that it needs to be collected

Recipes for mint potions

To make medicinal potions, the entire above-ground part of mint is cut off. Yellowed and dried leaves are torn off, the stems are removed, leaving only high-quality leaves and inflorescences. For storage, it is best to dry it in the shade in the open air (shelf life 2 years). A good storage method is freezing, which allows you to use fresh mint at any time of the year. You can make jam from mint and lemon. Well boiled and rolled into jars, it can be stored all winter and used to treat bronchitis, sore throats and colds.

Usually peppermint consumed internally as an infusion of leaves. It is prepared with 2 tablespoons of fresh or dried leaves and 0.2 ml of freshly drunk water. Cover the mixture with a lid, wrap it in a warm cloth and leave for 1–1.5 hours. The resulting liquid is filtered and taken 50–70 ml before meals. This medicine is used to treat migraines and colds. In addition, this infusion helps get rid of toxins in case of poisoning if you drink it three times a day with meals, 1 tablespoon.

You can prepare mint infusion according to another recipe. Dry leaves (1 tablespoon) are brewed with a glass of boiling water and left for 1/2–2/3 hour, then filtered. This drug will help with abdominal pain (take 1 tablespoon every 3 hours), with vomiting (1/2 cup) and to reduce toxicosis during pregnancy (half a glass before meals, twice or thrice a day).

The same infusion will help with skin inflammation, itching or rashes; it can be prepared by making lotions from it or wiping the skin of the face and body.

Fresh gruel from mint leaves will help with fungal diseases (mycoses) of the feet if you apply it to the sore spot for 50–60 minutes. You can grind the leaves with coarse salt.

During colds, bronchitis, sore throat good effect gives peppermint tea. To do this, you need to brew it like regular tea, pour 1 tablespoon of crushed dry leaves into 0.25 liters of boiling water and leave for 10–15 minutes. To relieve cough, you need to drop a little mint oil into water and inhale it.

Making mint jam - video

cure stomach disorders To prevent gastritis and reduce nausea, prepare an infusion of 2 teaspoons of dry mint leaves per 200–250 ml of boiling water. The liquid is left for 0.5 hours, filtered and drunk 15–20 minutes before meals, 60–70 ml twice a day.

For nausea and vomiting, taking 20–25 drops will bring relief. alcohol infusion mint powder dissolved in a glass of water.

To treat gastritis caused by high acidity, mint alone is not enough. It is added in an amount of 15 g to a mixture of other medicinal herbs: yarrow (15 g), St. John's wort (30 g), bean (one pinch). Chopped, well-mixed herbs are poured with boiling water (0.4 l), left for 2-3 hours, filtered. The resulting drink should be drunk throughout the day in 70 ml portions.

For patients with gastritis low acidity prepare Herb tea, including peppermint (20 g), marsh cudweed and knotweed (15 g each), yarrow, chamomile and valerian roots (10 g each), dill and caraway seeds (10 g each), hops (5 g). The mixture of ingredients is brewed with 1 liter of boiling water, wrapped and left overnight. 1 glass should be drunk in the morning on an empty stomach, the rest throughout the day at regular intervals.

Medicinal herbs included in the collection along with peppermint, pictured

Yarrow has anti-inflammatory and bactericidal effect, promotes wound healing St. John's wort is used as an antibacterial, antiseptic, analgesic, wound healing, antirheumatic, diuretic, choleretic, astringent, anthelmintic, and also as a regenerating drug Pharmaceutical chamomile- a strong antiseptic with anti-inflammatory, antispasmodic, choleretic, astringent, diuretic properties Valerian root is a good sedative that enhances the properties of mint.

To prevent hypertensive attacks, use a mixture of peppermint, chamomile and valerian (proportion 1:1:0.5). Having prepared an infusion from these herbs, drink 60–70 ml per day for 30 days.

Peppermint infusion helps relieve the discomfort that occurs during menopause. Dry mint leaves (2 teaspoons) are placed in hot water(0.5 l) and boil.

1 tablespoon of leaves, poured into 0.5 liters of boiling water and infused for 2 hours, will help eliminate unpleasant odor from the mouth if you use the infusion to rinse the mouth.

Peppermint for 40 diseases - video

For headaches, mint can be used in different ways:

• bandage fresh leaves to the forehead;
• drink water with the addition of mint tincture - 10–15 drops per 200 ml. To prepare the tincture, finely chopped leaves should be infused for 7–8 days in 70% alcohol in a ratio of 1:20), adding them to water (200 ml);
• mint infused with triple cologne is used to rub the frontal, temporal and occipital parts heads;
• rub mint oil into the skin of the forehead and temples.

Taking peppermint tincture will help ease the symptoms of a hangover - it will relieve headaches and heaviness in the stomach. A good remedy An infusion of mint and sage (1:1 ratio) is considered, which after brewing is left in a warm place for 2–3 hours.

How to treat the liver - video

People suffering from diabetes are recommended to drink 0.25 cups of a decoction of mint leaves (1 teaspoon) and dandelion roots (3 teaspoons) 2–4 times a day. The specified amount of raw material is poured into a glass of water, boiled for 6–7 minutes, left for 0.5 hours and filtered. This decoction also improves the activity of the pancreas and has a choleretic effect.

If there are stones in gallbladder take half a glass (50–70 ml for children) of an infusion of 1 teaspoon of mint leaves per 0.25 liters of boiling water (leave for 30 minutes, filter, squeeze out the cake).

For neuroses and insomnia, prepare an infusion according to the following recipe: 20 g of dried leaves pour 0.5 l warm water, leave for 6–8 hours, filter. Take before bedtime (adults 100 ml, children 50–70 ml).

How to make your own mint tincture at home - video

Beauty Recipes

Peppermint is not only medicine, but also indispensable in cosmetology: it is added to masks for hair and skin, compresses, creams.

Benefits for hair

Mint infusion, if you rinse your hair with it, helps to improve the health of the scalp and hair (especially dry or colored hair). Nice smell invigorates and lifts the mood.

Even more effective means To maintain the beauty of hair, use a decoction of mint leaves and the same amount of linden inflorescences. This mixture needs to be poured into 400 ml boiled water and heat in a water bath for 15–20 minutes. Do not bring the broth to a boil!

The broth should be filtered and used for rinsing and even washing hair (for daily hair washing).

To treat dandruff, prepare a mixture of 2 tablespoons of castor oil and 2-3 drops of peppermint oil. The mask is applied to the hair and left for 30–35 minutes under a plastic cap, washed off with shampoo.

Using peppermint essential oil to maintain beautiful skin and hair - video

For skin beauty

To narrow pores and reduce oily skin, make masks of the following composition: 2 teaspoons of crushed mint leaves, string, chamomile plants, mix, add ground cereals(3 teaspoons), add boiling water until the consistency of thick sour cream is obtained, heat in a water bath for 10–15 minutes.

The mask applied to the skin is covered with a towel. You can rinse off with plain water, and after the mask, apply argan oil to the skin.

To moisturize the skin, prepare a similar mask from mint, chamomile and plantain.

Peppermint is an unpretentious crop that does not require much effort to grow, but will bring great benefits under the most various diseases. For a healthy person, mint will be a pleasant ingredient in various culinary masterpieces. To avoid troubles, before consuming mint, you should familiarize yourself with the contraindications for use.

In the article we discuss peppermint tincture - use depending on the disease, recipes, beneficial properties and contraindications. You will learn how to get rid of fatigue and migraines with the help of alcohol tincture, which will help with toxicosis and colds, and how to relieve hangover symptoms.

Peppermint tincture is used in folk medicine

Peppermint tincture contains the following chemical compounds:

• alcohol;
• menthol, cineole and limonene;
• saponins, rutin;
• vitamins B, C;
• glucose, betaine;
• organic acids;
• rhamnose, arginine;
• chlorogenic, ursulic, oleanolic and caffeic acids;
• flavonoids;
• tannins and resins;
• microelements.

Beneficial properties of peppermint tincture

Thanks to the rich biochemical composition, tinctures and decoctions based on peppermint have therapeutic effect for the whole body:

• relax blood vessels;
• relieve spasms and relieve pain;
• normalize blood supply to the brain;
• stabilize the psycho-emotional state;
• destroy pathogenic microorganisms;
• clear the airways during ARVI;
• relieve nausea and heartburn;
• improve appetite;
• reduce gas formation in the intestines;
• have a choleretic effect.

• chronic fatigue, overexcitation, irritability;
• tachycardia, angina pectoris, hypertension;
• migraine, headache;
• food poisoning;
• cough and runny nose;
• inflammation of the oral cavity;
• spasms with nausea and vomiting, flatulence;
• gallstones;
• hangover.

Use in folk medicine

For treatment various diseases in folk medicine, they use an alcoholic tincture of peppermint from a pharmacy or make the medicine at home. Instead of an alcohol tincture, an infusion (decoction) is sometimes prepared from the leaves and stems of the plant.

The treatment regimen depends on what disease is bothering you. As soon as the symptoms of the disease disappear, stop taking the mint tincture.

For inhalation for colds

Add 1 tablespoon of mint water infusion to boiling water, turn off the heat and lean over the saucepan at a distance of 30-40 cm. Cover your head with a towel and inhale the steam through your mouth and nose for 10 minutes.

Peppermint inhalations ease breathing during acute respiratory viral infections, eliminate sore throats, relieve swelling, and have an anti-inflammatory effect during bronchitis.

For headaches and migraines

Drip 25 drops of mint alcohol tincture into a small container, rub mint into the skin of the forehead, back of the head and temples 3 times a day with massaging movements.

Menthol has a cooling, soothing and antispasmodic effect and quickly relieves headaches and migraine pain.

From fatigue

Make a water infusion with mint and take 3 times a day, ½ glass before meals. The medicine relieves nervous excitability, lifts your mood and makes you cheerful.

For nausea

Take mint infusion for nausea according to the following scheme:

• 2 tbsp each every 2 hours during pregnancy;
• 1 cup 3 times a day for food poisoning or stress.

You can add honey to the infusion, but not sugar.

Peppermint not only removes the painful feeling of nausea, but also effectively neutralizes toxins and other harmful substances for food poisoning.

For a hangover

If you have had too much alcohol and want to quickly get rid of a hangover with the help of an alcoholic tincture of peppermint, the benefits and harms of the medicine will be almost the same. Mint relieves headaches in a couple of minutes and improves overall well-being. Place 20 drops of tincture in 1 glass of water and drink.

However, if you have a chronic alcoholism, alcohol along with mint may cause heart pain due to unstable work of cardio-vascular system. To relieve hangover symptoms, replace the alcohol infusion with mint decoction. The medicine will calm muscle tremors and tachycardia and help remove alcohol breakdown products.

For insomnia

Drink peppermint decoction undiluted 2-3 times a day, ½ cup. Do not abuse the product if you drive vehicles or operate complex machinery, as mint quickly causes drowsiness.

To relieve inflammation in the mouth

Prepare an aqueous infusion of mint leaves or use an alcoholic tincture of the plant - add 15 drops to 1 glass of water. Regardless of what you use to relieve inflammation - water infusion or peppermint infusion, the application will be the same. Rinse your mouth with the prepared medicine 3-4 times a day.

Peppermint removes bad breath, relieves toothache and other symptoms accompanying inflammatory processes in the oral cavity.

How to make peppermint tincture at home

Dried mint leaves are used to prepare the tincture.

To prepare peppermint tincture at home, buy the herb or collect it yourself during the flowering period and dry it.

Ingredients:

• Peppermint herb - 20 tbsp.
• Alcohol 75% or vodka - 2 glasses.

How to cook: Grind the mint using a blender or mortar. Pour the powder into a glass jar, fill with alcohol and cover with a lid. Place the container in a dark place for 2 weeks. Shake the liquid regularly. After half a month, strain the tincture through 2-3 layers of gauze and pour into a bottle.

How to use: Take 15-25 drops 3 times a day or for rubbing.

Result: Alcohol tincture peppermint helps with colds, headaches and toothaches, relieves nervous tension and reduces high blood pressure. A water infusion of mint pepper application the same as for alcohol tincture. At the same time, the infusion (decoction) is effective in situations where alcohol cannot be used.

Ingredients:

• Herb or mint leaves - 1 tbsp.
• Water (boiling water) - 1 glass.

How to cook: Place the mint in a saucepan, add boiling water and cook for 15-20 minutes over low heat. Remove the pan from the heat, strain the liquid through a strainer and squeeze. Pour into a thermos and close the lid. Leave the decoction for 1.5 hours.

How to use: Use every 2-3 hours according to the treatment regimen.

Result: A water infusion with mint reduces nausea and vomiting during toxicosis in pregnant women, relieves hangover symptoms and reduces toothache. It improves well-being during symptoms nervous exhaustion- depression, fatigue, insomnia.

Where to buy tincture

Peppermint tincture is sold in all city pharmacies, but mint tincture is not produced on an industrial scale.

For more information on preparing the tincture, watch the video:

Contraindications

Some people should not consume mint, despite the medicinal properties of peppermint tincture, and the contraindications for them are as follows:

• age under 3 years;
• phlebeurysm;
• low blood pressure;
• problems with conception;
• lactation;
• individual intolerance.

People at risk for a possible allergic reaction include people with bronchial asthma, atopic dermatitis and hay fever. Peppermint tincture can cause shortness of breath, skin rashes and allergic rhinitis.

What to remember

1. Peppermint tincture quickly relieves headaches and spasms, relaxes blood vessels, lowers blood pressure and stops the inflammatory process.
2. If you have a cold, take inhalations with a water infusion of mint.
3. For migraines, wipe your temples, forehead and back of your head with 25 drops of alcohol tincture, and for bad smell for toothache, rinse your mouth with 15 drops of tincture diluted in a glass of water.
4. A water infusion helps when drinking alcohol is prohibited, as well as with insomnia, nausea and chronic fatigue.
5. Alcohol tincture of peppermint will quickly relieve a hangover, but not in the case of chronic alcoholism. In this case, treat with mint decoction.

Particularly great value for adherents traditional medicine is peppermint. Unfortunately, the plant is not found in the wild, because it is the result of artificial hybridization of two field varieties of mint - “water” and “spike”. It is often called “English”, “cold” or “pepper”, which is due to the characteristic bitter taste of the leaves.

Plant characteristics

It is not difficult to distinguish the plant from other types of grass - peppermint has tetrahedral reddish stems that grow up to one meter in height, as well as elongated ovate leaves. The flowering period occurs at the beginning of summer, when the tops of the stems are covered with a spike with small pink or pale purple flowers.

The chemical composition of peppermint is represented by the following substances:

Menthol has found wide use in the pharmaceutical industry. For example, it can be found in such drugs as Validol, Valocordin, Zelenina, drops, “Gold Star” balm, various lollipops to reduce pain for colds and sore throats.

Medicinal properties and contraindications of mint herb

"English mint" has many beneficial properties:

In addition, peppermint has a beneficial effect on digestive system, because it is a powerful antispasmodic, carminative and choleretic drug. In addition, it helps improve appetite and intestinal motility.

Pepper grass is used for the development of various diseases, including:

In addition, mint fights toothache and headaches, painful manifestations after bruises and sprains, spasms of smooth muscles and other troubles.

Benefits of use

Peppermint can be used in a variety of ways.

One of them is a water infusion, which is particularly effective in combating the symptoms of bloating, increased gas formation, intestinal colic, gastrointestinal diseases, heart pain, colds and other troubles. To prepare the infusion, take one tablespoon of dry herb, pour it into a thermos and leave for one hour.

Use the composition 1 spoon , however, if the patient suffers from insomnia or nervous disorders- 100 milliliters each. Best result noticed when taken before bedtime. The daily norm does not exceed three servings.

This composition can also be used externally, which helps improve complexion and reduce the visibility of pores. The infusion also combats oily skin problems and fine wrinkles.

Also popular alcohol solution based on peppermint.

The product is used for compresses for bruises and joint pain. If you suffer from migraines, then just rub the mixture onto your temples. Take one part of the dry herb and pour it with 5 parts of high-quality vodka, leaving it to infuse for 14 days in a dark place.

For internal use, the infusion is diluted with water at room temperature and taken 10 drops three times a day for colds, sleep disorders, female problems (menopause, heavy menstruation and hormonal imbalance), as well as for sedation. And preventive effect or relieving inflammation in the oral cavity.

Mint infusion is effective with nausea, tachycardia or bad breath, and for preparation use the following recipe:

1. For a half-liter container of water, take one tablespoon of dry mint leaves.
2. Then the dishes are placed on the burner and the heat is turned on low for 15 minutes.
3. After 15 minutes of straining, the composition is moved to a dark place to infuse.

It is effective in the fight against heart diseases, diseases of the lungs, gall bladder and liver. It can also become an indispensable remedy for nervous disorders, migraines and flatulence. Make peppermint oil V home environment impossible, but it can be found in every pharmacy and bought at affordable price. When used internally, 3 drops of essential oil are dripped onto a piece of refined sugar and dissolved.

External use is practiced after insect bites or with the development of acne; the composition is applied pointwise. In addition, this remedy actively fights migraines, joint pain, myalgia and colds.

The most popular form of using mint is to create teas. After all, there is nothing easier than pouring 1 teaspoon of dry or 2 teaspoons fresh leaves mint 1 liter of boiling water. After a few minutes of infusion, the tea can be consumed.

But do not forget that mint tea is a natural medicine, so it is prohibited to use it instead of green or black tea.

Optimal daily norm for an adult it is 300 ml (3 doses per day), and for children over 3 years old - 50 milliliters three times a day. If the correct dosage is not followed, it can cause weakness, apathy and drowsiness.

In this form, mint leaves are especially useful, especially in hot summer weather. The drink effectively fights insomnia and stressful condition, so to improve your sleep, just drink a cup of tea before bed. In addition, tea reduces blood pressure, reduces pain syndrome, spasms and migraines.

If you wish to treat one Of the above problems with mint medicines, do not forget to consider the expiration date. For example, a package of dried mint leaves and mint tablets can be used for two years. Peppermint oil can be used for up to 18 months, and alcohol tincture can be used for up to three years. However, this is only possible when storing the products in a cool, dark place, in a closed container.

Side effects

If you are using peppermint, consider the series side effects which can develop if used incorrectly:

Contraindications for use

And although there is a solid list benefits, mint may be contraindicated for the following diseases.

Mint is used with particular caution on different stages pregnancy. The influence of the plant promotes increased production female hormone- estrogen, which increases the tone of the uterus. Also avoid intensive treatment with mint during lactation. Use of the herb in large quantities can lead to suppression of milk secretion.

Mint is contraindicated for children under three years of age. And drugs with high concentrations menthol is prohibited for children under 6 years of age.

Methods of application

The use of mint is practiced not only for medicinal purposes, where it is used in the form of decoctions, infusions, teas and tablets, but also as a seasoning for meat dishes, an ingredient in sauces and dessert additives. In this case, leaves, stems, and inflorescences are used. All parts of the plant are used both dried and fresh. Currently, mint is an indispensable component of baked goods and soft drinks.

Also popular are candies with mint and menthol, which are consumed when nausea occurs.

As for pharmaceutical mints, then they are represented by the following list:

Folk remedies based on mint

Followers alternative medicine mint is used to prepare teas, decoctions, water and alcohol tinctures, as well as other purposes. In addition, juice and pulp are created based on young shoots of mint and leaves. The first option is used internally and externally, and the second - exclusively externally. By the way, in the latter form the herb is widely used in cosmetology field, because she fights well with skin changes, acne and other troubles.

To make juice, you need to take 300 grams minced washed leaves and shoots, and then pour a liter of “steep” boiling water over them. The container is wrapped in warm material and moved to infuse for three hours. Then it is strained and sterilized in glass jar for 25 minutes and close hermetically. Highly effective juice is considered ready. It can be used in the same way as a decoction or infusion, following the correct dosage. For storage, move the container to a cool, dark place.

There are really a lot of ways to use mint. Each of them has its own subtleties and advantages, but in any case such medicinal herb can become a truly valuable assistant in the fight against all kinds of diseases and health problems.