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Peppermint

Peppermint

Peppermint is a rapidly growing, perennial plant, is the result of a cross between water mint (M. aquatica) and spearmint (M. spicata). The “x” that appears in the plant’s botanical name indicates that it comes from a cross between two different plants and that leads to a new type of plant in a class of its own. The plant can reach 80 cm tall. Its lance-shaped leaves are small, dark green, and webbed with red veins. When the plant is exposed to the sun, its leaves can take on shades of red. Like most lamiaceae, the stems are divided into four grooves. Peppermint flowers in summer. Its small flowers vary between shades of pink and purple. This type of mint is sterile and therefore cannot reproduce via its seeds. However, like all types of mint, this plant can propagate easily via its rhizome and stolons. It can therefore spread as quickly as other plants.

Latin name

Mentha x piperita L.

Origin

The cross that resulted in peppermint probably took place in the temperate regions of Europe, Asia and Africa.

Used part

The aerial parts.

Active components

Essential oil (menthol, menthone): It has a vast scope of action. To combat cramps, fight bacteria, stimulate the production of bile, dissipate intestinal gases, provide calm, ease pain and promote digestion.

Tannins: Antibacterial action.

Flavonoids: Antioxidant action.

Phenolic acids: Antioxidant action.

Usage

The use of mint dates back to Egyptian, Greek and Roman times. It was popular to use it in cooking but also as a medicinal plant to treat all sorts of digestive problems such as nausea, indigestion, abdominal cramps and flatulence. During ancient times, it was added to all sorts of culinary preparations and even confectionery; as well as personal hygiene products such as cosmetics and soaps. It was most extensively used as an infusion. If you want to plant mint in your garden, taste a little leaf before you purchase the plant. There are so many varieties that differ in flavour. Also consider the fact that it propagates easily. Use its rhizomes or plant the mint in a pot. Mint essential oil is now found in chewing gums, toothpastes and even in natural insect repellent solutions. According to recent scientific studies, peppermint oil has interesting properties. It stimulates the function of the gastrointestinal system and as so restores it to a healthy condition. It contributes to the passages of fats and so supports the liver. 1-7 Peppermint oil acts exceptionally well in the case of bloating. It calms cramps and relaxes the intestinal muscles. Thanks to its antibacterial properties, it halts the activity of pathogenic micro-organisms and reduces the production of intestinal gases.8-24 When using peppermint oil, it is important to be attentive to the fact that high doses can irritate the wall of the stomach and can even lead to acid reflux. This is why it is important to choose peppermint oil-based tablets protected by a gastro-resistant coating. This ensures that the tablets deliver their active ingredients along the full length of the intestines. Menthol has refreshing properties since it activates the cold receptors in the skin. This is why it is used in soothing and refreshing creams and lotions.25-28  

Bibliographical references

The health claims that feature on our website in relation to the plants contained in our products are compliant with the list of health claims awaiting final assessment by the Community authorities (cf. website of the European Commission: http://ec.europa.eu/nuhclaims/). However, they may be subject to modification following their assessment by the national competent authorities.

The health claims relating to other nutrients or substances contained in our products that feature on our site are compliant with Regulation No. 432/2012 of the Commission of 16 May 2012 which establishes a list of authorised health claims authorised in relation to food products, other than those in reference to the reduction of the risk of disease as well as community-based development and child health (cf. website of the European Commission: http://ec.europa.eu/nuhclaims/).