Beneficial and dangerous properties of other herbs. Use for weight loss. Nutritional value and calorie content

On many personal plots there is a vegetable garden where, in addition to potatoes, cucumbers and tomatoes, spices and aromatic spices. Some of them are suitable only for use in cooking, while others have a lot of useful properties and are used for treatment. various diseases. One of these plants is fragrant mint. It has a minimum of contraindications. This is an excellent ingredient for preparing not only refreshing cocktails, but also most cosmetic products, medicinal decoctions and tinctures.

What is mint

Science knows about 40 species and hybrids of this fragrant plant, but only one is recognized by official medicine - peppermint. This herbaceous, seemingly unremarkable plant belongs to the Yamnotaceae family. On a horizontal trunk, reaching a height of up to one meter, oblong leaves with sharp edges and a heart-shaped base are located crosswise. Small flowers of a light purple hue are collected in inflorescences at the tops of the shoots.

Chemical composition

The plant is valued not for its appearance, but for its qualities. Mint is very refreshing, smells nice and has a rich composition. 100 grams of fresh leaves contain 70 kilocalories, of which 15 g are carbohydrates, 4 g are proteins, 1 g are fats. Besides essential oil, which gives the plant its characteristic smell, it contains potassium, magnesium, phosphorus, calcium, iron, almost all B vitamins, ascorbic and a nicotinic acid, retinol. From others chemical elements stand out:

• tannins;
• carotene;
• routine;
• hesperidin;
• betaine;
• arginine;
• glucose;
• neutral saponins;
• phytostyrene;
• rhamnose;
• acids – oleic, caffeic, ursolic, chlorogenic.

Medicinal properties of peppermint

herbaceous plant used to create many drugs: lollipops, alcohol pepper tinctures, mint drops, essential oils for inhalation. Mint has antiseptic properties and has choleretic and bactericidal effects. Preparations containing this plant are used to relieve abdominal pain, heart pain, toothache, and in the treatment of migraines, diseases of the stomach, liver, and digestive system.

Latest Research Scientists have discovered that it has an anti-cancer effect, and therefore medications with mint extracts have begun to be actively used for prevention. oncological diseases of different etiologies. The aromatic herb increases the resistance of body cells when exposed to radioactive substances, helps restore function immune system, relieves inflammation.

The benefits of mint don't end there. Menthol essential oil has a pronounced antispasmodic, antiseptic and mild vasoconstrictor effect. Thanks to these beneficial properties, mint extracts are included in heart medications, and fresh herbs are recommended during the treatment of angina pectoris and atherosclerosis. There is unconfirmed evidence that menthol has a beneficial effect on the condition of blood vessels in the brain.

Useful properties for women

Some experts argue that in the absence birth defects reproductive system and contraindications, drinking mint tea with lemon will help in the treatment female infertility. In addition, the fair sex uses mint leaves, roots and stems to prepare:

• Homemade lotions, creams, face masks. The use of this herb in for cosmetic purposes improves condition problem skin(narrows pores, relieves redness, removes oily shine), refreshes complexion, fights fine expression wrinkles.
• Decoctions and tinctures. Healing properties mints for women are associated with treatment gynecological diseases. Medicines are used during heavy menstruation to eliminate sharp changes mood, during menopause.
• Sitz baths that will help relieve pain, eliminate itching and burning due to cystitis. The procedures are contraindicated for pain of unknown etiology and for women with hypersensitive skin.

During pregnancy

Mint strips and menthol lozenges will be useful during pregnancy. Traditional healers especially recommend drinking tea with mint in the first trimester for pregnant women who suffer from severe toxicosis. A refreshing drink relieves nausea, helps avoid vomiting during meals, eliminates heartburn, constipation, and bloating. Fresh mint leaves can be added to salads, marinades, and baked goods.

At the first sign of a cold, medications made from this spice will help relieve sore throat, swelling of the nasal mucosa, and muscle pain. To cope with toxicosis in pregnant women, you can use only fresh or dried leaves, but concentrated oil extract is strictly contraindicated. It contains high percentage menthol, which has the ability to reduce vascular tone. Menthol can lead to hypertonicity of the uterus, the development of bleeding, and provoke premature birth.

When breastfeeding

Official medicine It is contraindicated to consume peppermint products during lactation. Numerous experiments have shown that systematic use of menthol inhibits the production of breast milk. The use of preparations based on mint extracts is advisable only for the smooth end of the breastfeeding period.

Not all types of this plant have such a negative effect on lactation: some suppress it, while others have the ability to increase the quantity and quality of milk. These plants include spearmint and essential oils from it. This herb contains minimal amount menthol, but another substance predominates - carvone, useful for nursing mothers. Before starting to take any menthol preparations, you should first take into account all the medicinal properties and contraindications of mint for women.

Mint for sleep

An inconspicuous-looking plant can calm raging nerves, so it is often included in sedatives. medicinal fees. Even a regular cup of tea with mint leaves will help you relax and fall asleep peacefully. For insomnia, it is recommended to brew the pepper variety in the following proportions: 1 part herb, the same amount of green tea or chamomile inflorescences to 5 parts boiling water. This drink will have a calming effect throughout the day, but you should use it with caution - the sedative effect affects the ability to quick response and inhibits reactions.

For a cold

Mint can help cure viral diseases, and cause them to appear if you decide to overuse a refreshing drink in hot summer weather. Concentrated in the leaves of the plant a large number of essential oil, which has anti-inflammatory, analgesic and antiseptic effects. During epidemics respiratory diseases doctors recommend inhaling the smell of menthol, inhaling, cooking medicinal teas. This treatment is contraindicated for children under 6 years of age.

For men

The beneficial properties of mint and contraindications for men are the most controversial topic. On the one hand this plant:

• helps relieve fatigue;
• get rid of increased sweating legs;
• normalizes sleep;
• makes blood more fluid, improving blood circulation;
• has a choleretic effect, preventing the development urolithiasis, normalizes liver function;
• makes breathing easier, which is useful if a man smokes;
• relieves stress;
• helps to cool down during the heat.

On the other hand, scientists from the American Institute of Nutrition have found that the plant contains a large amount female hormones– phytoestrogens, which negatively affect potency. To do this, they conducted an interesting experiment. To a group of experimental rodents, scientists, instead ordinary water, they gave me mint tea. At the end of the test, a decrease in the level of testosterone in the blood was revealed, the rodents completely lost interest in females, and infertility developed. Given these data, it is contraindicated for men to abuse such drinks.

Useful properties and contraindications of lemon balm

It has another name – lemon balm. The plant is used folk and scientific medicine for more than 20 centuries in many countries of the world. Useful herb found in the south of Russia and the Caucasus, it is often grown not only on an industrial scale, but also in garden plots for personal use. Melissa is rich in various micro- and macroelements, but most of all it contains vitamin C. The medicinal herb improves immunity and has antipyretic properties, therefore it is often used to treat colds.

Among other useful properties, it is worth highlighting antispasmodic, sedative, antidepressant, antimicrobial effect lemon balm. Wide range therapeutic effects served as a reason for using the plant for treatment:

• neuroses;
• eczema;
• dermatitis;
• tachyarrhythmias;
• arterial hypertension;
• flatulence;
• intestinal dysbiosis;
• dyskinesia;
• acute and chronic gastrointestinal diseases;
• nervous disorders;
• headaches.

Children are shown a relatively limited list of medicinal plants, which include lemon balm. Useful properties of this medicinal herb allow its use for the treatment of childhood neuroses, rheumatism, obesity, diabetes mellitus, chronic cholecystitis and pyelonephritis. Medicines based on lemon balm are often used in herbal medicine for children born with heart defects.

Fresh lemon balm leaves are used externally as compresses for boils, teenage acne, and as a gargle for gum inflammation. Like any other medicinal plant, lemon balm has a number of contraindications, which include:

• childhood up to 3 years;
• epilepsy;
• hypotension;
• individual intolerance to lemon balm;
• serious illnesses liver (cirrhosis, hepatitis, liver failure).

Is it possible to eat mint

The spice is actively used in cooking, both fresh and dried. It is added to baked goods confectionery products, drinks, marinades. In eastern countries, this herb is simply irreplaceable on any table. The reason lies in the peculiarities of Asian cuisine - it is very hot and spicy. The freshness of the leaves helps improve digestion and soften the taste of dishes. You should know that mint drinks do not satisfy hunger, but, on the contrary, only stimulate appetite, therefore they are contraindicated for those who want to lose weight. excess weight.

Application of mint

In the pharmaceutical industry, this plant is used to prepare herbal remedies(medicines obtained from plant materials by extraction) in the form of medicinal mixtures, teas, aromatic waters, decoctions, tinctures, tablets. In the absence of contraindications, these medications are actively used in the treatment of:

• viral and infectious nature– sore throat, pharyngitis, rhinitis, bronchitis, tuberculosis;
• of cardio-vascular system– angina pectoris, spasm coronary vessels, increased blood pressure, violations heart rate.
• gastrointestinal tract - flatulence, gastritis, colic, heartburn, nausea and vomiting, cholecystitis, irritable bowel syndrome, helminthic infestation, stomach cramps, stones gallbladder;
• nervous system – insomnia, stress, migraines, depression;
• mucous membranes and skin - itching, rash, inflammation, dermatitis, burns, acne, excessive sweating;
• pain syndrome - dental or headaches, muscle spasms, bruises, sprains, neuralgia.

Fresh mint

In the old days, an infusion of fresh leaves was mixed with marjoram and drunk to improve memory. The tops of the shoots were considered the best pain reliever for rheumatism, joint pain, and bruises. You can prepare many useful things from fresh leaves:

• If you feel nasal congestion, take inhalation. To do this, you need to pour boiling water over a handful of fresh leaves, cover with a towel and breathe over the steam for several minutes. Useful action This treatment will be similar to nasal drops, but the method itself is cheaper and more natural.
• If the spice leaves have begun to wilt and are no longer suitable for consumption, make ice. Once frozen, mint cubes can be placed in water or added to tea or lemonade, adding freshness to the drink. You can wipe your face with ice in the morning. Such procedures rejuvenate, brighten the skin, and help fight wrinkles.
• Make homemade toothpaste. To do this, squeeze the juice out of the leaves, grind them in a blender, mix with baking soda and hydrogen peroxide. It's worth knowing that mint toothpaste with peroxide is contraindicated for people with sensitive tooth enamel.

Peppermint oil

The list of beneficial properties of peppermint essential oil does not end with its calming and anti-inflammatory effects. In the medical field, this extract is used to relieve asthenic disorders, for dizziness, toothache, heartburn attacks, heart spasms, for physical overload and as a remedy for motion sickness in transport.

Another useful property oils are antibacterial. If there are no contraindications, this dosage form used to cleanse mucous membranes, the aroma oil copes well with rosacea and normalizes blood circulation. The ether will help remove the vascular network from the surface of the skin, acne, acne. There are many ways to use oil:

• It can be added to the aroma lamp. A pleasant smell will help you relax, relieve headaches, and calm your nerves.
• For preparing a relaxing mint bath. For this purpose, the emulsifier is diluted in the amount of 7 drops per 100 liters of water.
• It is added to cosmetic products, mixed in equal parts with any other solvent oil. Shampoos and hair masks help eliminate dandruff and nourish the scalp. Mint lotion or cream is suitable for sagging skin. With regular use, it becomes elastic and taut, small wrinkles disappear. The same compositions are used for compresses, rubbing, and massage.
• The oil helps eliminate gum inflammation. In this case, use the application method: cotton swab dab with a mixture of mint and vegetable oil taken in equal shares.
• In cooking, the emulsifier is used to flavor wine, mulled wine, tea, lemonade, and desserts.

Extract

Sold on pharmacy shelves in the form of alcohol tinctures. Peppermint extract is often included in heart drops and tablets (for example, Validol contains this active ingredient, as menthol extract). Inhalations are made from tinctures for coughs and brochospasms; doctors recommend this type of medicine during the treatment of complicated respiratory viral diseases. External use of the tincture will help get rid of severe headaches. To do this, rub a few drops of mint extract into the temple area.

The beneficial properties of mint extract, expressed in its disinfecting and drying effect on the skin, are actively used in cosmetology. Shampoos with mint refresh and help get rid of dandruff. The tincture is often added to a gel to help relieve swelling of soft tissues and relieve fatigue. Lotions on this basis normalize work sebaceous glands, eliminate shine oily skin.

Dried mint

Dried mint leaves, inflorescences and stems are used mainly in the form of alcohol or water infusions, for preparing decoctions or tea. You can prepare them yourself in the summer by collecting parts of the plant before flowering and drying them in the shade, or you can buy a ready-made collection at the pharmacy. Dried flowers are used for gastrointestinal diseases with tea. Such a drink will have anti-inflammatory, disinfectant, antispasmodic properties.

If there are problems with the biliary tract, stomach acidity or pulmonary bleeding, decoctions are prepared from dried raw materials. They are used externally to treat wounds and scratches, as a mouthwash for gum inflammation or toothache. A mint drink will relieve moderate and mild headaches, freshen breath, and is useful when there is a need to stop vomiting.

Folk recipes

Unofficial medicine uses not only peppermint, but also its other types - field, water, curly. Dried and fresh leaves and essential oils are used to prepare medicines. The beneficial properties of this herb are fully reflected in alcohol medications, decoctions, water tinctures. This plant is part of numerous collections, including antitumor ones. Externally, pepper is used in the form of soothing or relaxing baths, poultices for neuralgia, radiculitis, for washing or treating wounds.

When treating diseases of the nervous system, water infusions are prepared. They are also used for cosmetic purposes to improve complexion, treat problem skin, eliminate facial wrinkles and increase the elasticity of the epidermis. Method for preparing water infusion:

1. 1 tbsp. l. dry mint leaves are ground, pour 200 ml of boiling water.
2. The broth is infused in a thermos or by wrapping the container with liquid in a terry towel.
3. After about an hour, the drink is filtered through several layers of gauze.
4. For diseases of the gastrointestinal tract, digestive disorders, and neuroses, take the medicine one sip 3-4 times a day for 10 days.
5. For external use, soak a cotton swab in the decoction. Cosmetic procedures carried out before bedtime. If there are no contraindications, you can use mint cosmetics regularly.

Alcohol tincture is used to remove pain syndromes for rheumatism, bruises, for rubbing in case of skin diseases or migraines. The medicine is taken orally when heavy menstruation, during menopause, in for preventive purposes during a respiratory viral epidemic. To obtain an alcohol tincture you need:

1. Mix 1 part of dry raw materials with 5 parts of 40-proof vodka.
2. Seal the container tightly and wrap it in foil.
3. Place in a dark place to infuse for 2 weeks.
4. The finished tincture must be strained.
5. You need to take the medicine by diluting 15 drops with water two to three times a day.
6. The course of treatment is selected individually, but should not exceed 30 days.
7. Alcohol tinctures are strictly contraindicated for liver problems, ulcers, and arterial hypertension.

Mint decoction

Water infusion used in preparing baths to treat dermatitis, drink for heart rhythm disturbances, nausea, to eliminate unpleasant odor from mouth. Mint infusion is also used for cosmetic purposes as a hair rinse. The product helps get rid of greasy hair, strengthens the roots, and prevents the appearance of split ends. Take note of the following recipes:

• For nausea and palpitations, pour 1 tbsp. l. dried mint leaves 500 ml warm water. Boil the mixture over low heat for 15 minutes. Cover with a lid, let cool and set for 5-10 minutes. Take 100 ml twice in the morning and before bed. The drink can be sweetened with a teaspoon of honey. The course of therapy is 7-14 days.
• For cooking cholagogue brew ½ tbsp. l. mint leaves with a glass of boiling water. Heat the mixture in a steam bath for 3-5 minutes, stirring frequently. Let cool, squeeze out the cake. Take the finished decoction 2-3 times in the morning and evening, 100 ml 15 minutes before meals for 10 days, and then take a break.
• For gastritis, brew 1 tbsp. l. dried mint leaves 250 ml boiling water. Heat over steam for 15 minutes, strain. Take the medicine up to four times a day, ¼ cup, for a course of 10 days.
• For depression 1 tbsp. l. Brew 200 ml of boiling water with mint leaves. Cover with a lid and let steep for 7-10 minutes. Take half a glass twice for 2 weeks - in the morning and before bed.

Contraindications

When consumed medicines If the dosage is observed, the plant is well tolerated by the body. You should strictly adhere to the recommendations specified in the instructions for use or recipe. Deviations from the norm can lead to the appearance allergic reactions and others side effects, which are expressed in:

• severe headache;
• nausea;
• bronchospasm;
• rashes on the body;
• itching;
• insomnia.

In addition, the plant has its own contraindications. The harm is especially noticeable when used uncontrolled folk remedies. It is worth limiting the use of mint tinctures, teas and other drinks for men, pregnant women and women during lactation. The following diseases and conditions of the body are categorical contraindications for mint:

• children under 6 years of age;

Mint is one of the most famous in the whole world. herbs, it can be found literally everywhere - from teas and cocktails to toothpaste or chewing gum. The taste of mint is so unique and unlike anything else that there are proposals to add it fifth to the well-known list of basic ones: sweet, bitter, sour and salty. Aromatherapy, perfumery, cooking, medicine - representatives of each of these areas can give their answer to the question of how mint is useful and why it is good.

What is mint?

Mint is a generalized name for many plant species belonging to the Lamiaceae family. These types are united by the presence in their chemical composition of a specific substance - menthol. It is this that causes such a characteristic mint aroma and “cool” taste. However, freshness can be felt not only with the tongue - numerous cosmetical tools containing menthol also have a noticeable refreshing effect.

Today at different countries Around the world, a little more than two dozen varieties of mint, both wild and cultivated, are collected and consumed. The most popular variety is peppermint. The benefits of this plant as a whole are no more and no less than those of other mint varieties, because the differences between them are mainly due to their adaptability to growing in certain conditions and the peculiarities of their structure and appearance, and not to any specific composition. And if you come across peppermint in a store or in nature, the contraindications for its use will also correspond to those common to all varieties of this herb. Peppermint unpretentious, you can grow it even on the windowsill of a city apartment, and at the same time it has pronounced taste and aromatic characteristics - this is what explains its popularity.

Mint stems and leaves have practical value. Collect them for drying and consumption fresh recommended at certain times when their menthol content is especially high - usually shortly before and during flowering.

Mint contains essential B vitamins for humans, retinol (A) and (C), as well as macro- and microelements - iron, calcium, magnesium, manganese, zinc and others. In addition, plant raw materials contain natural tannins, esters, and phytoncides.

What is made from mint?

It’s easier to say what they don’t make from it - enter any hypermarket, and this plant and its derivatives will literally surround you. Fresh herbs, mint syrup, chewing gum, toothpaste, deodorant, shampoo, dishwashing liquid, tea mixtures with mint, dried herbs in the spices section, semi-finished lamb fillet in mint marinade, mint gingerbread, candy, and for fans bad habits– mint liqueur and menthol cigarettes. The same situation is in the pharmacy: peppermint tincture, herbal teas, cough drops, dandruff remedies - and this is not a complete list.

In cooking, mint is used mainly in fresh and dried form - both for flavoring dishes and giving food certain flavor shades, and simply for decoration, like any other greens. The easiest way is to brew mint tea - read more about the benefits and harms of this drink below. Perfumers also love to use mint - starting from its primitive use in household chemicals, where mint flavor is able to qualitatively overpower the not always pleasant original odors of substances in gels and aerosols, and ending with the high art of composing fashionable fragrances.

What are the benefits of mint?

Treatises were written about the benefits of mint for the body in ancient times - mentions of this medicinal herb found in the works of Avicenna and Hippocrates, who, among other things, gave advice on the beneficial properties of mint and contraindications to its use. Their recommendations are not at all outdated - mint can still be used to effectively heal both body and soul.

Here are the main ones beneficial effects properties this herb has:

• bactericidal properties;
• mild natural sedative;
• mild analgesic effect;
• ability to lower body temperature;
• vasodilator of natural origin;
• anti-inflammatory effect.

Taking into account the above, it is not surprising that both in folk and in traditional medicine Mint is widely used. Indications for its use are problems in the gastrointestinal tract, spasmodic pain, including headache and menstrual pain, fever, nervous disorders, insomnia.

Are there any contraindications?

Harm to mint occurs primarily in the case of its excessive consumption - such phenomena as an overdose of the vitamins contained in this herb and excess permissible consumption micro- and macroelements. There are, in addition, a number of specific contraindications to the use of mint:

• individual intolerance and allergic reactions;
• hypotension – mint and its derivatives have the ability to further lower blood pressure;
• some gastrointestinal diseases - increased acidity, peptic ulcer;
• conditions associated with decreased tone blood vessels, such as varicose veins;
• age up to three years.

In addition, the relaxation that mint can cause is of no use if you are driving - so you can only use this plant before car trips if you are a passenger.

Mint for women and men

The benefits of mint for women have been tested and confirmed by many generations of women who have used the analgesic and sedative properties of this herb:

• to relieve pain during menstruation;
• to relieve symptoms of menopause;
• to reduce the manifestations of toxicosis during pregnancy;
• to reduce body hair growth.

Modern women have at their disposal an extensive list medicines for these purposes, but medicinal mint still does not lose popularity among the fair sex - after all natural remedy always healthier than synthetic. In addition, this herb began to be actively used by those wishing to lose weight - since mint tea high content essential oils dulls appetite and is not harmful to female body even with constant use, you can drink it liberally while on a diet.

Another open question related to mint is its harm to men. There is an opinion that the use of this herb, affecting the level male hormones, reduces sexual desire, which representatives of the stronger sex usually fear like fire. However, it can be argued that the harm from mint for men is at least greatly exaggerated: some specific effects can only be noticed with abundant and systematic consumption of this herb and its derivatives. The only exception is when trying to wash other, more delicate areas with mint anti-dandruff shampoo. In this case, the effect is felt with lightning speed.

It couldn’t be simpler: mint tea

Peppermint tea is perhaps the most common way to prepare this herb due to its simplicity: it requires nothing but mint and water. To prepare this tasty and healing decoction, you just need to pour boiling water over a measured amount of mint and steep in the same way as regular tea.

The harm of mint tea is minimal, and the benefits have long been proven. In winter, they can effectively warm you up, while in summer, chilled mint tea, to which ice cubes are added, will help you feel comfortable, despite the heat and stuffiness.

Just one sprig of fresh mint or a pinch of dried mint can elevate and turn even the most unassuming black tea from a bag into a quite decent drink.

Green tea with mint also has its loyal fans, to which this herb also adds additional flavor notes. There are also various tea and herbal infusions on sale, which include mint. If you wish, you can make such “cocktails” yourself, varying them depending on your taste preferences.

A little more widely known the hard way preparations mint drink– from mint, lemon, honey and root. Some people use it to accelerate metabolism during weight loss - cold or warm. But this tea is especially effective for colds and low blood pressure - and here, of course, it must be drunk hot.

Not everyone knows that the lemon balm plant is a type of mint. It is also called lemon balm or mint. Its properties are similar to those of mint. It is popularly known that lemon balm and mint can have a negative effect on men's health. Is this really so: is mint somehow dangerous for men, or is mint beneficial for men, just as it is for women? The question deserves attention, if only because mint is now added to many drinks and culinary products, cosmetic products, balms, preparations for runny nose and colds. We propose to consider in detail the properties and effects of mint, taking into account all the arguments and refutations.

Most likely, there is no person who has not tried drinking tea with lemon balm or mint at least once in his life. In fact, mint in tea provides not only pleasant taste and the aroma of the drink, but gives it medicinal effect. In other words, mint tea is a medicine, and like any drug, it should be treated with caution, since mint can have considerable contraindications.

You can verify this by just looking at the list, which shows a wide range of herbs.

What are the benefits of mint and lemon balm:

So, is mint bad for you? men's health, let's figure it out.

The effects of mint on the male body

In the treatises of Ayurveda, lemon balm and mint are described as means that can give clarity to the head, and vigor to the body, and increase the overall tone of the body. The opposite side of the coin is the ability of herbs to act soothingly on nervous system, relaxing the body. A conclusion follows from this, which states that with the proper use of herbs, you can bring the body to harmony, feeling both externally and internally calm, but at the same time have a charge of vivacity and energy.

If a man does not limit himself to the consumption of teas and drinks containing mint, then he will undoubtedly be able to experience the harm of mint, which also affects the potency of men. How is this proven? Scientific research.

They were conducted at the American Institute of Dietetics and Nutrition. During the experiment, the test rodents were systematically given mint tea to drink. The result of this experiment was a significant decrease in the level of testosterone in the blood of males after a certain period of time. And a little later, incurable disorders of testicular function appeared.

The picture is not encouraging. But one should take into account the nuance that the laboratory subjects completely replaced all their drinking water with mint tea.

Therefore, we can draw the following conclusion: in moderation mint, as well as lemon balm, has a beneficial effect on the health of both women and men (of course, if there are no contraindications).

Not too much frequent use will not provide negative influence neither on potency, nor on any other function of the body.

A few words about the use of mint and lemon balm in folk medicine

Melissa can cause the same “harm” to the male body, as does mint for men. Despite the fact that lemon balm has been considered a herb for women for centuries, thanks to the phytoandrogens it contains, there is no need to worry about its use in the form of decoctions and teas.

The essential oils contained in the plant are endowed with strong antiviral and bactericidal properties. Some categories of men are quite familiar with such a remedy as lemon balm against hair loss. These esters are very useful for the functioning of the heart and blood vessels. Inhaling lemon balm vapors leads to a decrease in blood pressure and a reduction in heart rate. Thanks to the effects of these properties, even people who cannot tolerate a sauna or steam bath can withstand well high temperatures. And regardless of the fever, their heart rhythm improves, and the process of restoring organ functions after prolonged exercise begins. Aromatherapy sessions held in a sauna or bathhouse give a feeling of lightness in the body and increase psycho-emotional mood.

“Elixir of life” - that’s what Paracelsus called lemon balm. Which is quite understandable unique properties. The dried herb can be placed in cotton socks and worn on your feet at night. This way you can get rid of foot odor. A mixture of lemon balm and honey - excellent remedy from bad breath. By the way, last method used by the ancient Romans.

How to treat with mint?

In addition to the above properties, these herbs have some more that are not so widely known. Ancient people believed that mint stimulated the activity of the mind. Modern scientists have proven the protective effect of mint on bone marrow and reproductive system women and men, against the influence of increased radiation.

Mint can be very accessible for use in homemade cosmetology products. Mint can tone and increase the elasticity of aging skin.

In case of excessive sweating of the feet, it is recommended to do foot baths with mint every day before going to bed, into which mint infusion is poured (1 handful of fresh or dried herb is poured with a liter of boiling water, wrapped, left for 30 minutes). Menthol shrinks pores, and this prevents the release of sweat, the minty aroma of the feet deodorizes, and the unpleasant odor is removed. In addition, swelling will disappear from the ankles, and relief will come to tired legs.

Mint for men can be used as effective remedy against the appearance of nightmares. It is recommended for those who have trouble falling asleep and wake up frequently at night. Fill a small fabric bag with dry mint and place it at the head of the bed. Such a healing bag will calm you down and make you sleep longer.

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We often come across mint, but we don’t think about why it’s useful. Meanwhile, we are dealing with a plant that can be used for health benefits.

Since the most common, and most importantly universal, is peppermint, we will mainly talk about it in this article.

Chemical composition

So, like any plant, mint has a chemical composition due to which its beneficial properties are manifested.

One of the main substances in mint is its essential oil. Its content ranges from 2.5% in the leaves to 6% in the inflorescences of the plant. Thanks to menthol, which is contained in the essential oil, the plant has a unique “chill” taste.

In addition to this, mint contains ascorbic acid(about 0.01%), chlorogenic acid (about 0.7%), caffeic acid (0.5 to 2%), ursolic acid (about 3%) and oleanolic acid (about 0.12%) .

There are also tannins and resinous substances.

Beneficial features

Mint has a long history of serving people. Also in Ancient Rome it was used for decoration and cleaning of premises. The Romans knew that mint, or rather its smell, could lift the mood and relax.

Tea

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Many people know that mint tea makes it easier to endure colds, flu. After drinking this tea, the stuffy nose of a person with a cold begins to breathe, the temperature drops and goes away. headache and blood circulation improves. However, mint tea can be used not only in connection with a cold.

This tea can:

• help with diarrhea;
• reduce blood pressure;
• relieve pain in muscles and intestines;
• stimulate myocardial function;
• calm the nervous system for better quality sleep;
• It is also believed that regularly consumed mint tea can slow down hair growth in women in “male” places - on the legs, armpits. This same property of mint contains a warning for men, which is discussed below.

What is useful for women

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For women, mint has a wide range of beneficial properties.

For hair

For example, with its help you can take care of split ends and brittle hair, dry and colored hair. Rinsing is done using a decoction of linden color and mint leaves.

Skin on the face

Mint is useful for facial skin care. It helps to refresh the skin, smooth out wrinkles and remove the tired appearance of the skin.

Mint infusion eliminates oily skin and tightens pores on the face. In addition, the plant will help cope with dermatitis, acne and rashes on women's skin. Mint extract (usually from the leaves) can be used either alone or included in homemade masks and creams for face care.

Women's diseases

Very important property mint - reduction menopausal symptoms And menstrual pain. Mint has this effect thanks to the same substances that help reduce muscle pain. Traditional medicine uses this plant to treat gynecological diseases, usually inflammatory.

Weight loss

Mint infusion helps normalize the metabolism of the female body, remove toxins and waste. This will subsequently lead to weight loss if you use the infusion regularly and eat right.

What is useful in folk medicine

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And now some practical tips on how to use the beneficial properties of mint for your health.

Anti-fatigue foot scrub

Mix 100 grams well sea ​​salt, 35-40grams olive oil and 6 grams of peppermint oil. Rub the resulting mass into your feet, while massaging them for 5-10 minutes. Afterwards, wash it off. This massage relaxes and relieves fatigue.

For bloating, nausea

Pour 2 tablespoons of finely chopped mint leaves with 400 grams of boiling water and let it brew for an hour. Drink 15-20 minutes before meals, but not more often three times in a day. Adults 100 grams at a time, children 50 grams. It helps a lot to improve the functioning of the gastrointestinal tract.

For a good sleep

In addition to mint tea, mint sprigs placed in the bedroom can help make your sleep sounder, and you can fill your pillowcase with fresh leaves.

For headaches

To get rid of headaches, traditional medicine advises applying fresh mint leaves to the forehead. long time. They can be tied with gauze, as an option.

And also 10% peppermint oil helps a lot against headaches if you rub it into the back of your head and temples.

Lemonade

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To make lemonade you will need: a bunch of mint leaves, 3-4 tablespoons of freshly squeezed lemon juice, a bottle of water (to taste with or without sparkling), sugar to taste (about 6 tablespoons) or honey.

Carefully remember the mint to release the juice and aroma, add to it lemon juice and sugar/honey, mix well. Pour the resulting mass with water and mix well. Add whole lemon slices and mint leaves for garnish.

Contraindications

Due to the ability of mint to lower blood pressure, its use in any form is contraindicated for people with low blood pressure.

As with any other product, you need to use moderation with mint. Excessive passion teas, tinctures and fresh plants can lead to allergic reactions.

For men, the plant can be harmful in large quantities. The result of a study conducted on laboratory mice showed that long-term consumption of strong mint tea affects the reduction of sexual function in males. In men, libido decreases as a result of decreased testosterone levels in the body. This is about slowing down hair growth in women in some places with the help of mint.

I hope I have helped you understand the benefits of mint for your health. I can recommend you articles about others medicinal plants: “The benefits of horseradish in the treatment of diseases” and “Far Eastern Schisandra and its beneficial properties.”

Be healthy!

Many people had to drink mint tea. It is especially useful for colds. But mint unique plant and even tea from it must be drunk correctly. The fact is that mint tea is medicine. They may abstain from it altogether. When you are fifty and you value your masculine abilities, it is useful to know that mint calms your..., boyfriend. However, everything is in order.

Mint is a perennial plant from the Lamiaceae family. There are about 25 types of mint. For example, Melissa, nothing more than lemon balm. Medicinal properties Avicens and Hippocrates described mint in their works. There is a legend according to which the wife of Pluto, the ruler of the kingdom of the dead, turned his mistress, the nymph Mentu, into a delicate plant with a cold smell. Peppermint reproduces using rhizomes. Uncut mint forms much more strong rhizomes than cut mint and tolerates frost better.

Nowadays, mint is widely used in toothpastes, chewing gum, air fresheners, in cosmetics and of course in cooking.

What are the benefits of mint:

Mint is a pain reliever and vasodilator. Peppermint oil is included in many medicines: mint drops, stomach tablets, ointments;

Improves digestion, has choleretic properties, and is used for asthma;

Mint is used to combat colds and fevers;

Mint is widely used in pharmaceuticals, perfumery, cooking, and in the production of alcoholic beverages. In cooking, it is both a seasoning for all kinds of dishes and an additive for flavoring.

Hot mint tea has one beneficial property for women - it inhibits the growth of hair on women's bodies where hair should not grow.

Is mint harmful?

On the one hand, mint tea helps relieve stress, nervousness, and improves sleep. On the other hand, it reduces male potency. Moreover, the effect of long-term use gradually accumulates. And at one fine moment the man realizes that he is no longer interested in “this.” I don’t want to, that’s all. Of course this extreme case. Some time after stopping the use of mint, “hibernation passes.” Sometimes overly jealous and vigilant spouses, for their own peace of mind, treat their husbands to tea with mint.

Folk recipes with mint

At . Dry mint leaves – 50 grams, motherwort herb – 50 grams, rhizomes with valerian roots – 20 grams, hop cones – 20 grams. Half a glass of infusion 3 times a day.

For diseases of the gastrointestinal tract, brew 1 tbsp. a spoonful of dry mint leaves 200 ml of boiling water, leave for 20 minutes, drink like tea, half an hour before meals.

To get rid of heartburn. For half a liter of boiling water, add 2 tablespoons of crushed dry leaves, cool and drink 1 glass 3 times a day. You can also add one currant or viburnum leaf to the tea.

Swelling of the legs. Pour 100 grams of dry mint with 3 liters of boiling water. We insist for half an hour. We keep our feet in a warm bath for half an hour, then wipe our feet with a piece of ice made from mint infusion.

For toothache, as well as for fresh breath, chew mint leaves, then rinse your mouth.

To get rid of migraines, you need to apply mint leaves to your temples.