Peppermint for Indigestion
Peppermint for Indigestion
Peppermint (Mentha x piperita)
“The smell rejoices the heart of man,” wrote the sixteenth-century herbalist John Gerard, when referring to the aroma of peppermint. A familiar and favorite flavoring in jelly, tea and candy, peppermint has potent healing properties as well. Peppermint is a hybrid of spearmint and water mint, which have a similar, though milder, therapeutic action.
What gives peppermint its medicinal punch is menthol, an antiseptic, anti fungal and anesthetic constituent of its volatile oil. Most commonly prescribed as a tincture, tea, oil or syrup, peppermint is effective in treating nausea, flatulence, indigestion and menstrual cramps. Its good as a topical remedy, too, and as a compress it can relieve minor skin rashes.
However, take precautions when using peppermint. Its fragrance can induce gagging in children, and menthol can be highly toxic, even fatal, to infants.
MAKE PEPPERMINT SYRUP FOR INDIGESTION
The volatile oil in peppermint is a stomach soother and gas reducer, making it useful in cases of indigestion.
Here is what you do – place 2 oz. of dried peppermint leaves in 4 cups of water; cover. Bring to a boil. Lower the heat and simmer for 30 min. Cool, and then strain the tea. Over low heat, reduce this liquid to 1 cup. Add 2 cups of honey, and then simmer —stirring constantly— until a syrup forms. Mix 1 tbsp. of syrup in 1 cup of water and drink after meals for relief. Store the syrup in a bottle in the refrigerator.
Healing Tea Blend
Rich, fatty meals can cause abdominal cramping and bloating. To relieve such symptoms, mix approximately ¾ oz. each of dried peppermint leaves and dried chamomile flowers, plus 1/3 oz. of yarrow (Achillea millefolium). Pour 1 cup of boiling water over 2 tsp. of the mixture. Steep for 10 min.; then strain. Leave the tea unsweetened to maximize its healing properties. Sip 1 cup as needed.
For educational purposes only. This information has not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This information is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.
All information provided in this site is the result of research using (but not limited to) the following books and guides: The Complete Guide to Natural Healing, International Masters Publishers.
This site makes every effort to provide accurate and up-to-date information that is intended to complement, not replace, the advice of your physician. Before undertaking the advice contained on this web site, you should consult with a health care professional, who can best assess your individual needs, symptoms and treatment.
