Peppermint Tea For Headache And Stomach Pain
Preparing a peppermint tea can be helpful in reducing headaches and stomach discomfort. Although it is not a first-line treatment for health problems, peppermint has stood out in natural medicine due to its properties.
According to a publication in the scientific journal Phytotherapy Research , both peppermint leaves and oil contain phenolic compounds, as well as menthol, menthone, and other beneficial substances. In general, it is attributed antimicrobial, analgesic and soothing properties.
Mint: the plant of many benefits
Mint is an aromatic and medicinal plant that has been used both in gastronomy and in alternative medicine. According to information in the Journal of Photochemistry and Photobiology B: Biology , its leaves contain menthol, menthone and limonene, to which medicinal effects are attributed.
Peppermint for the digestive system
According to the Journal of Clinical Gastroenterology, peppermint oil is a safe treatment for those patients who suffer from irritable bowel. It should not replace medical treatment, but it is an adjunct. We can take from mint tea infusions to capsules sold in pharmacies.
Mint also improves digestion. It helps us to stimulate the production of bile so that food is synthesized and better absorbed in the intestine.
Thanks to its active principles, we reduce any stomach and intestinal pain fighting flatulence. It even prevents smooth muscles from contracting, which could ease bowel spasms.
Peppermint for headaches
Peppermint tea, thanks to its menthol content, is a good vasodilator that will help us fight headaches associated with tension, according to a publication in the journal Phytomedicine .
Peppermint oil applied to the forehead was even found in one study to be as effective for headaches as 1,000 milligrams of acetaminophen. However, the evidence is still limited and more studies need to be done.
How to prepare a peppermint tea for a headache and stomach pain
Ingredients
- Mint (10 g)
- Organic honey (7.5 g)
- 1 glass of water (200 ml)
Preparation
- The first thing we will do is wash the mint leaves well. Once the water has reached a boil, add the plant to allow its essential oils to come out little by little.
- It is worth it that you lower the heat and let the infusion brew little by little.
- It must be on the fire for at least 10 minutes. Then let it sit for another 10. Strain all the contents and put them in your favorite mug. Sweeten with honey and enjoy.
Contraindications of peppermint
- Children under 2 years of age cannot take menthol, as well as pregnant or nursing women.
- If you have stomach ulcers or gallstones, it is better to avoid mint consumption, since this plant increases the production of bile.
Mint massage in case of headache
To take advantage of all the benefits of mint in case of tension headache or fatigue, buy, either in pharmacies or natural stores, the essential oil of this plant.
- What we will do in this case is to put a cotton cloth moistened with water in the refrigerator to cool it for a few minutes. Then apply a few drops of peppermint essential oil to your forehead and feel. Finally , do a little massage with this refreshing cloth.
We can consider peppermint tea and its essential oils as adjuvants to calm headaches and stomach discomfort. However, since evidence is lacking, they should not be considered a first-line treatment. In case of illness, it is essential to consult the doctor and follow his recommendations.
