Pudina or mint is one of the oldest culinary herbs known to humans. In addition to its remarkable medicinal properties, Indians have been using it in chutneys, raitas, and sorbets. Pudina is a rich source of polyphenols and has a distinct aromatic taste and smell.
“Pudina leaves are low in calories and contain very low amounts of protein and fat. It has a huge amount of vitamins A, C, and B complex that improves the skin and stimulates immunity. Another nutritional benefit of Pudina is that it is rich in iron, potassium, and manganese that increase hemoglobin and improve brain function, ”said Dr. Saurabh Arora, Inventor Pudhinaa, and Snec30, Director of Arbro Pharmaceuticals.
He adds that Pudina helps indigestion. It has carminative and antispasmodic properties. Chewing Pudina helps relieve bloating and gas. The essential oils present in Pudina can be beneficial for toothache problems.
Below, share the various health benefits of Pudina/mint leaves.
Here are the 10 health benefits of Pudina you should know about:
1. Helps in digestion: Pudina is rich in antioxidants, menthol, and phytonutrients that help enzymes to digest food. The essential oils in Pudina have strong antibacterial and antiseptic effects that calm stomach cramps and help relieve heartburn and flatulence.
2. Treat Asthma: drinking Pudina regularly can relieve chest congestion. The methanol in the Pudina acts as a decongestant, helps loosen the accumulated mucus in the lung, and also shrinks the inflamed membranes of the nose to allow you to breathe better. While using Pudina, make sure you don’t overdose otherwise your airways will be irritated.
3. Cures Headache: Pudina contains menthol which can help relax muscles and relieve pain. Applying Pudina juice to the forehead and temples can ease a headache. Also, Pudina-based balms or peppermint oil are effective in curing headaches.
Here’s how peppermint can help. (Source: Getty Images / Thinkstock)
4. Relieves stress and depression: peppermint is the herb most used in aromatherapy. It has a strong, refreshing scent that can relieve stress and refresh the body and mind. Peppermint’s apoptogenic activity helps regulate blood cortisol levels which trigger the body’s natural response to stress relief. Inhaling Pudina essential oil can instantly release serotonin into the blood, which is a neurotransmitter known to relieve symptoms of stress and depression.
5. Makes your skin healthy: Pudina has anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties that help treat acne and pimples on the skin. Pudina leaves contain a large amount of salicylic acid that acts as an anti-acne. It also acts as an effective skin cleanser. Pudina has antioxidant properties that help you have clean, youthful skin by removing free radicals from the body. Pudina also locks in moisture in the skin, removes dead cells and dirt from skin pores, and makes skin look radiant and toned.
6. Oral Care: Chewing Pudina leaves is a great way to improve oral hygiene and dental health. The essential oils in Pudina can help you catch your breath. Also, using the mouthwash that contains peppermint oil can help you kill bacteria in your mouth and give you healthy gums and teeth.
7. Improves memory: “According to research, Pudina can improve memory and restore the cognitive function of the brain. Regular consumption of Pudina can boost brain power by improving alertness, memory retention, and other cognitive functions, ”he said.
8. Promotes Weight Loss: Pudina essential oils stimulate digestive enzymes to increase bile flow and promote digestion. It also helps improve the absorption of nutrients from food. When the body is able to assimilate and absorb nutrients properly, its metabolism increases. This increase in metabolism promotes weight.
9. Treat the common cold: If you are battling the cold and finding it difficult to breathe, Pudina is the best remedy for you. Most inhalers and steam rubs contain peppermint. Peppermint naturally clears congestion in the nose, throat, bronchial tubes, and lungs. In addition to the respiratory channels, peppermint also relieves irritation caused by chronic coughs.
10. Relieves symptoms of nausea: Pudina is an effective treatment for nausea that often occurs in morning sickness. Eating some Pudina leaves or smelling them every morning can help pregnant women prevent nausea or cope better.
She is a freelance blogger, writer, and speaker, and writes for various entertainment magazines.