Exploring the surprising health benefits of peppermint beyond candy canes and holiday treats
If December had a signature flavor, peppermint would surely be it. From mints to mocha lattes, peppermint is everywhere this time of year. But peppermint is more than just a seasonal flavor, it’s an herb from the mint family, native to Europe and Asia, with some intriguing health properties worth knowing about. Keep in mind, though, most research focuses on peppermint extracts or oils, so your peppermint mocha or breath mint might not pack the same benefits.
Many people know peppermint tea is often used for digestion, and that’s more than just anecdotal. Peppermint can help relax the smooth muscles in the digestive tract, easing muscle spasms and relieving symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). Research even shows peppermint oil may reduce the frequency and severity of abdominal pain in children and may help ease side effects from chemotherapy.
Beyond digestion, peppermint is often talked about for easing muscle cramps, menstrual pain, tension headaches, and migraines. The menthol in peppermint oil may increase blood flow and create a cooling sensation that helps reduce pain. One study found applying peppermint oil to the forehead was as effective for headache relief as taking 1,000 mg of acetaminophen. Whether peppermint tea or mints offer the same effect isn’t certain, but it’s possible.
Peppermint also carries antibacterial, antiviral, and anti-inflammatory properties. This is likely why mint flavors are popular in oral care products, it helps reduce bacteria that cause plaque and bad breath. Peppermint oil may also fight bacteria linked to illnesses like staph infections and pneumonia, and it might prevent growth of foodborne bacteria such as E. coli, listeria, and salmonella.
These properties extend to respiratory health, too. Peppermint’s menthol can improve the sensation of airflow in the nasal passages, helping to relieve nasal congestion and your CLO sinuses, caused by colds, allergies, or sinus infections. Peppermint tea or aromatic rubs might just help you breathe a bit easier during cold and flu season.
Interestingly, peppermint is said to both energize and relax. The energizing effect is linked more to mental alertness, while relaxation might come from its muscle-relaxing properties. The best way to know how it affects you is to try it yourself.
Regarding weight management, the science is mixed. Some studies suggest peppermint oil reduces appetite, while others show peppermint extracts might increase weight gain, at least in animal models. From my experience as a health coach, peppermint’s strong flavor may help neutralize taste buds and curb cravings, which can support healthier eating habits.
If you want to try peppermint’s benefits, consider having it after meals to aid digestion or after dinner to support relaxation. Just be cautious if you have allergies, GERD, or heartburn, as peppermint can worsen those symptoms for some people.
At the end of the day, peppermint offers some fascinating possibilities, but you know your body best. Give it a try this season and see how it fits into your wellness routine!