Peppermint (peppermint oil) is a type of hybrid mint plant similar to spearmint and watermint. Peppermint is native to Europe but has spread throughout the world. Peppermint is often used as a home remedy, herbal dietary supplement, natural medicine, and homeopathic medicine due to its health benefits. Other names for peppermint include: Bo He, Chinese Peppermint, Black Peppermint, Brandy Mint, Corn Mint, Extract of Peppermint, Oil of Peppermint, Menthol, Peppermint Leaf Extract, Western Peppermint, Mentaha, Piperita, and M. Balsamea Willd.
Traditionally, peppermint has been used for thousands of years as a naturopathic remedy or natural medicine. Peppermint is used for a wide variety of purposes. It is sometimes used to make peppermint tea, to flavor ice-cream, to produce commercial products such as toothpaste, shampoos, soaps, and chewing gum.
Health Benefits of Peppermint (peppermint oil)
Peppermint oil is often used as a home remedy or natural medicine to treat maladies such as: insomnia, damaging effects of radiation, and memory problems. People suffering from irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) may find some health benefits when taking peppermint oil as a naturopathic or homeopathic medicine. Peppermint oil has also been cited as being a possible natural pain killer.
Peppermint may also be an effective natural medicine or alternative medicine to treat illnesses such as: mouth and throat inflammation, cold and cough, infections to the sinus and respiratory tract, heartburn, vomiting, nausea, cramping of the gastrointestinal tract, and flatulence.
Menstrual problems, gallbladder conditions, pain in the nerves and muscles, headaches, joint problems, rashes, and viral infections.
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