| Peppermint (menta peperita) |
| Written by Administrator |
| Wednesday, 11 March 2009 17:05 |
|
Biology: Peppermint is a natural occurring hybrid between different several other mint species. It is an evergreen plant growing to 90cm tall, mostly cultivated in Europe, Northern Africa and America. Cultural history:  Peppermint is among the oldest herbal remedies known to mankind. It was already used in ancient Egypt as proven by samples found in Pharaonic graves dated to 1200 BC. The name “menta” is derived from the Greek name Minthe. Minthe was a nymph of Kokytos, the “river of wailing” and one of the mythological Greek rivers of the underworld. Minthe was transformed into the plant menta by Proserpina, goddess of the underworld. Active ingredients: The main active ingredients of peppermint oil are menthol, menthone and menthyl acetate. Effects & side effects: Peppermint has strong local anesthetic properties, especially on the gastrointestinal tract when taken internally. A recent study from Italy proved peppermint to be highly effective against irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) symptoms and all kinds of colicky abdominal pain. External applications for peppermint are indicated against muscle and neuralgic pain. Although very popular as a tea in many Arab countries, peppermint indeed is a very strong herbal remedy not well tolerated by everybody. It is counter indicated during pregnancy as it can induce premature births and must not be given to children as it can provoke breathing problems. |
| Last Updated ( Tuesday, 24 March 2009 19:06 ) |