Healing Botanicals: Peppermint
Peppermint (Mentha piperita)
In Ayurveda, peppermint (pudina in Hindi and vilayati pudina in Sanskrit) is heralded for its digestion support, ability to soothes inflammation, clear respiratory channels, and calm the mind. Just one smell or taste tell you what it’s all about.
Ayurvedic Profile
Rasa (Taste): Pungent (Katu), Slightly Sweet (Madhura)
Guna (Quality): Light (Laghu), Dry (Ruksha)
Virya (Potency): Sheeta (Cooling)
Vipaka (Post-Digestive Effect): Pungent (Katu)
Dosha Effects: Balances Pitta and Kapha; may slightly increase Vata in excess due to its cooling properties.
Key Benefits and Functions
Respiratory Support: Relieves cough, cold, sinus congestion, and bronchitis by opening airways and acting as a mild decongestant. It’s very useful in soothing sore throats.
Skin Health: Soothes inflammation, itching, and minor burns. Its antimicrobial properties make it beneficial in treating acne and skin irritations.
Digestive Support: Alleviates indigestion, bloating, gas, and nausea. Helps stimulate appetite and promote digestive fire (agni).
Nervous System Health: Provides a cooling sensation that calms Pitta-related headaches, migraines, and mental agitation. Eases mental fatigue and enhances focus.
Fever & Heat Related Conditions: Cools the body during fevers and Pitta-related heat conditions.
Special Considerations
Due to the high potency and concentration of peppermint essential oil, be mindful to always dilute it when applying topically, especially for sensitive groups like pregnant women and children. Only ingest peppermint oils that are labeled safe for internal consumption.
Renee's Favorite Uses
Peppermint & Fennel Tea: This is a common go-to for stomach indigestion symptoms. You can easily make this yourself as ingredients are readily available at most grocery stores or online.
1/2 tsp dried peppermint leaves (or substitute for fresh)
1/2 tsp fennel seeds, crushed
Heat 1 cup of water below a boiling temp. Add herbs. Cover and steep for 5 minutes, then strain and drink! Up to 3 cups per day is recommended.
Peppermint & Lavender Infusion: I’m definitely fantasizing about summer with this one…it’s a great pitta pacifying simple concoction. Play around with the ratios to find what best suits you.
2 tbsp fresh or dried peppermint
1 tbsp fresh or dried lavender
Add herbs to 4 cups of water. Bring to a boil, then set to simmer for 10 minutes. Strain, pour, and sip!
Culinary Ingredient:
Especially in the warmer months, take a few springs, tear the leaves, and sprinkle them over a salad.
Add a small bit atop of a bite of watermelon - it’s so refreshing!
Peppermint chutney is one of my favorite condiments for spicy dishes.
Precautions & Contraindications
Fresh and dried peppermint is safe in moderation.