Peppermint

Peppermint, similar to lemon balms is an aromatic herb from the mint family. It is a cross between watermint and spearmint and has been used over thousands of years due to its minty taste and health benefits. It is used in flavoring toothpaste and chewing gum and the leaves contain several essential oils including menthol, methone and limonene. While peppermint tea is often drunk for its flavour, it may also have several health benefits. Peppermint may relieve digestive symptoms such as gas, bloating and indigestion by relaxing the muscles in your digestive system and improve various symptoms. As it acts as a muscle relaxant and pain reliever, it can be used for easing pain. The menthol in peppermint oil increases blood flow and provides a cooling sensation, easing pain. In fact, it has been used to treat symptoms of menstrual cramps. In one study in 127 women with painful periods, peppermint extract capsules were found to be as effective as a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug in reducing the intensity and duration of pain. In addition to its pleasant smell, peppermint has antibacterial properties that help kill germs that cause dental plaque — which may improve your breath. Peppermint also has antibacterial, antiviral and anti-inflammatory properties. Because of this, peppermint tea may fight clogged sinuses due to infections, the common cold and allergies