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 Mentha piperita (Labiatae)
PEPPERMINT
Peppermint is the most widely
used herbal remedy in the Western world. Herbalists use its
digestion-calming effect for colic, irritable bowel syndrome, flatulence,
and morning sickness.
Perhaps the most widely used herbal remedy in the Western world, peppermint is usually
taken as a tisane. The Romans and Egyptians used peppermint, but it was not
formally recognized as a remedy until the British botanist Ray described a peppery
tasting mint in 1696. A native of Europe but now naturalized in many countries, it is a
natural hybrid of watermint and spearmint. This perennial has blackish square stems
and shiny, oval, toothed leaves. Spikes of small purple flowers appear in summer.
PARTS USED
Whole herb.
ACTIVE INGREDIENTS
Volatile oil containing menthol, menthone, menthyl acetate, pinene, limonene, and cineole; flavonoids, including rutin; rosmarinic acid.
ACTIONS
Reduces muscle tension and spasm; relieves wind and colic; suppresses nausea and vomiting; induces sweating; antiseptic.
MEDICINAL USE
Given to calm digestive problems, indigestion, nausea from overeating and during pregnancy,
irritable bowel syndrome, colic, and flatulence. A close relative, Mentha arvensis, is prescribed in Chinese medicine for colds,
headaches, sore throats, and conjunctivitis.
PREPARATIONS
Infusion, essential oil, tincture.
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