Peppermint Is Great, And Not Just For Holidays
By Tom Herrin
Holiday time is full of lights, music, flavors, and pleasant smells. These are some of the things that make us feel good as we embrace the season. But some of the tastes and smells are more than just seasonal pleasures. They may actually enhance the quality of our lives. Peppermint is one of those. As a matter of fact, it may have some of the most diverse uses of any herb.
“Internalize” It
We usually think of peppermint as something we eat or drink. Peppermints in a candy, or something similar, are often used to settle digestion problems. It’s the first thing I always reach for if my stomach is a little upset. It is also a great drink. It is a favorite drink at our home when used as peppermint herbal tea. It is very soothing to the stomach and relaxing to the body overall. Of course it is great when added to chocolate or something similar. It is known to contain Vitamins A and C along with several other useful vitamins and minerals.
Breathe It In
The aroma of peppermint has a variety of uses, as well. Many people use it for coughs, colds, headaches, and certain respiratory problems. It seems to have some property that makes you feel more opened up and able to breathe more freely. You often see it in toothpaste, mouthwash, and some medications.
It Is Gaining Popularity As A Rub
There are several kinds of rubs on the market. The oils are marketed for use on your body in various places. I’ve known people to use it on their head, chest, and feet. Each has a different purpose, but all seem to have a healing property.
Hey, It’s Just Pretty Good Stuff
According to Rick Missimer in an article entitled “Health Benefits Of Peppermints” from HealthGuidance.org, it is also used to get rid of toothaches, treat urinary tract infections and fevers, improve circulation, and even treat dandruff and head lice. That’s a pretty good list; it's a pretty diverse herb. I’m a believer. So get in the holiday spirit. Get into peppermint. I keep an herbal tea bag with me quite often. We hang the candy canes on our Christmas tree. This might be the one time that you can say you are eating ice cream for your health because they have some pretty good peppermint ice creams, too.
To learn more about your health and wellness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic.