Disclaimer: Product recommendations in this article are not sponsored and are subjective to personal preference.
Mint is a popular perennial herb with a unique fragrance and toothed leaves that are used by many people in many dishes and infusions. In terms of Western nutrition, it is scientifically proven that the mint plant may help to increase concentration, freshen up your breath and improve Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS). Read on to find out more about the benefits of this herb in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM)!
What is it?
Mint, otherwise known as peppermint, mentha, or wild mint, refers to the dried aerial parts of the Mentha arvensis plant that belongs to the Lamiaceae family. Its given scientific name is Mentha Haplocalyx. This fragrant and refreshing plant has a cool TCM nature is associated with the liver and lungs.
Fun fact: The name "mint" comes from a nymph named Minthe or Menthe. Minthe was an attractive nymph in classic Greek mythology who was beloved by Hades, god of the underworld. When the Greek goddess Persephone found out Pluto was in love with Minthe, she took her revenge and turned her into a lowly mint plant. Although Pluto was unable to undo the spell, he softened the spell by giving her a pleasant fragrance so that others can appreciate her sweet scent.
The unique aroma of mint makes it a great flavoring agent, spice, and ingredient for salads, juices, and desserts
What are its benefits?
Due to its ability to disperse wind heat, mint is effective in relieving wind-heat-induced headache, sore throat, red/swollen eyes & toothache. It is also capable of removing liver Qi stagnation and helps to relieve itchy rashes.
Who does it benefit and who should avoid it?
Due to its ability to clear heat, it is especially useful for people with damp-heat body constitution, as well as people experiencing wind-heat-induced headaches, sore throat, red/swollen eyes & toothache. It is also generally suitable for individuals with a neutral/balanced constitution to consume in moderation.
Because of its dispersing and cooling properties, the following group of people should generally avoid long-term consumption of this herb:
People with weak or cold stomach/spleen
Pregnant or nursing mothers
*Do consult your TCM physician if you are unsure on whether you can or how frequently you can consume the monk fruit.
What to make?
Chrysanthemum Mint Tea: Best for wind heat-induced headaches
(Dried mint leaves 6g, chrysanthemum 10g, green/white tea leaves 3g) Steep tea with boiling water for 10 min
Mint Ice: Best for sore throat
(Dried mint leaves 6g or Fresh mint leaves 25g) Boil with water for 5 min, leave to cool, and put them in the freezer to freeze
Grandma Lotus's Heat Buster: We absolutely love this minty and refreshing blend that helps to cool us down on a hot and frustrating day! Check out their tea range on their website if you are interested.
Selection Criteria
Good quality mint leaves have all or most of the following criteria:
Mostly leaves
Most Green in color (not brown)
Without roots
No tiny water droplets in the packaging
Have a strong fragrance
Following the above criteria, our top pick is from Lao Ban Niang. Check them out on their website or their e-commerce shop on Shopee, Lazada, Qoo10, and Fairprice online.
(For brands who wish to feature your product for our upcoming posts, do send us a request here)
Summary
Do follow us on our Instagram for the latest updates!)
Reference(s):
https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/mint-benefits#TOC_TITLE_HDR_2