Peppermint: benefits and harms, application. How can eating mint harm men Benefits of mint for the human body
What exactly is used and in what form?
Herbs are used to make medicines mint leaves. Raw materials in the form of dried or fresh herbs are a source of valuable essential oil. On the basis of mint leaves, decoctions, tinctures, teas are prepared.
Leaves and inflorescences of mint contain an essential oil, the amount of which is determined by the general growth conditions of the plant, the mint variety and the time of collection of raw materials. Essential oil mint has been widely used: in medical practice, in the food industry. This is a natural flavor, indispensable in alcoholic beverages, confectionery. Menthol, which is obtained from essential oil, is a component of medicines with a disinfectant and anti-inflammatory effect. mint tincture and mint leaves (as part of herbal teas) are used to improve the functioning of the digestive system, as a choleretic and antispasmodic agent. mint oil useful for inhalation. mint water good for rinsing, is part of mixtures. Small children are bathed in mint baths with allergic rashes, scrofula, rickets, intestinal colic. Menthol alcohol is used to treat neuroderma. Fresh flowering mint is used in homeopathy.
Medicinal properties
peppermint leaves rich in volatile oils (among them menthol, limonene, depentene, menthone), they also contain triterpene compounds (various acids), mineral salts, tannins and enzymes. The largest amount of essential oil is found in the flower part of mint, much less in the leaf part, and very little in the stems.
In the leaves long-leaved mint several types of organic acids (malic, citric and succinic) and vitamin C. Curly mint contains carotene, vitamin P, ascorbic acid and phytoncides.
The therapeutic effect of mint is explained by a combination of substances of primary biological effects, among which menthol, which belongs to the terpene group, occupies a central place. Menthol exhibits anesthetic and antiseptic properties characteristic of this group.
In official medicine
In official medicine, drugs are widely used:
- peppermint leaves, packaged mono collection;
- peppermint tincture. Tincture in the amount of 10 drops is prescribed to improve the functioning of the digestive tract, as well as a diuretic and to eliminate nausea. The tincture expels bile. For the purpose of disinfection, it is used for purulent bronchitis, bronchiectasis. It acts as a vasodilator in angina pectoris. Lowers blood pressure, provided that it is taken simultaneously with vinca-based drugs;
- mint oil. Has found application as a disinfectant and flavor enhancer;
- boromenthol, ointment. An excellent antiseptic and antispasmodic, externally used to treat the nasal mucosa in case of general respiratory diseases, to relieve skin itching and irritation;
- menovazine, which includes ethyl alcohol, menthol, novocaine, anestezin. rubbed into skin with dermatosis, myalgia and neuralgia. The drug should be used with caution: if the dose is exceeded, weakness, dizziness, hypotension may occur.
- validol- a solution of menthol in menthol ester of isovaleric acid. It is used for angina pectoris, hysterical and neurotic diseases, and also as an antiemetic for motion sickness and disorder of the vestibular apparatus;
- pectusin, which contains menthol, eucalyptus oil, sugar and talc. Assign one tablet under the tongue for inflammatory processes of the upper respiratory tract;
- drops "Eucatol"(menthol, eucalyptus tincture, ethyl alcohol). For diseases of the upper respiratory tract, it is recommended to gargle (up to 10 drops per 200 ml of boiled water);
- olimetin capsules(peppermint oil, refined turpentine oil, calamus rhizome oil, olive oil, refined sulfur). Used to eliminate stones in the urinary and gallbladder (2 capsules 3-5 times a day after meals);
- candles "Anestezol" containing menthol. Used to treat hemorrhoids;
- tooth drops;
- mint water. Used as a flavoring agent and as a mouthwash.
In folk medicine
Mint is used in folk medicine as a powerful antiseptic and pain reliever. With a sore throat or toothache, rinsing with a concentrated decoction of mint is indicated. The herb is useful for stomach cramps. Provides relief from coughs. For anemia, raw mint leaves are used. Longleaf mint is also used for neurological problems. Patients with hysteria, neurological problems and aggressive behavior are prescribed a course of therapeutic baths.
- Mint leaves used to prepare a decoction: in two cups of boiling water, brew a tablespoon of leaves, let it brew for 10 minutes. They drink such a decoction with weak fermentation, nausea in expectant mothers. Outwardly, a decoction helps with an itchy rash. He is credited with a steroid effect.
- Mint decoction with gastritis or decreased appetite. Brew 2 teaspoons of dry raw materials in a glass of boiling water. Leave the broth for about 30 minutes, strain. Take 60 ml of the resulting liquid before each morning and evening meal.
- with SARS, acute respiratory infections, colds, bronchitis and tonsillitis. Pour a tablespoon of mint leaves with a small amount of boiling water, use later as a regular tea brew. Such tea with honey and lemon is useful.
- mint oil excellent for inhalation in upper respiratory tract infections.
- Lotions from mint help with fungal infections of the nails. Grind mint leaves and stems to a mushy state and pour boiling water over them. The resulting mass is wrapped in a thin cloth or gauze and applied to areas of the skin where the fungus appears. After 5 minutes, rinse the affected area and pat dry with a clean towel. Repeat the procedure up to 2 times a day.
- mint tincture with migraine. A teaspoon of mint raw materials is infused with alcohol (70%) in the amount of 20 teaspoons. The tincture is prepared for a week. Take 15 drops per 200 ml of drinking water daily.
- Peppermint tincture helps with heartburn: two tablespoons per half liter of boiling water. Take a quarter cup up to 4 times a day.
- Outwardly use oil for the treatment of wounds and erosion of the cervix. To prepare the oil, a 10% tincture of mint leaves is mixed in equal proportions with Provence or sunflower oil and the alcohol is evaporated in a water bath.
- For cooking therapeutic baths use 50 g of mint leaves per one bucket of water.
- Lotions with mint decoction is recommended to relieve fatigue, redness and irritation in the eyes. 2 tablespoons of mint mint leaves are poured into 1⁄2 liter of hot water. Boil over low heat for about 10 minutes. Strain the cooled broth, apply cotton pads soaked in the broth to the eyelids for 1-2 minutes, repeating the procedure up to 4 times a day.
- Mint steam baths: steaming the skin of the face over mint decoction reduces the amount of inflammation, has excellent antiseptic properties.
in oriental medicine
Chinese and Japanese healers have long used mint to treat migraines, digestive ailments, and stop internal bleeding. The treatises of Avicenna mention the so-called " pulegian» mint. Avicenna described its vasodilating effects and gave recipes containing mint to get rid of kidney stones.
In scientific research
In ancient times, Avicenna described the types of mint known to him and recorded the recipes that existed at that time. In early Europe, interest in the plant was maintained at the state level: by decree of Charlemagne in 812, the population was obliged to grow 4 types of mint in their gardens. Carl Linnaeus made his contribution to the development of research on the species diversity of mint: it was he who in 1753 defined a new hybrid (originated from water mint and spearmint, garden mint) - peppermint.
Modern scientists are increasing the body of knowledge about the numerous healing properties of mint. The antibacterial and antioxidant effects of peppermint are reviewed (R. Singh, M. Shushni, A. Belheir).
The object of the study is the biologically active characteristics of herbal tea from peppermint (D. McKay), J. Bloomberg) .
A group of researchers led by P. Mikaili focus their scientific interest on pharmacological and therapeutic properties long-leaved mint, and its main component - menthol.
Turkish scientists are analyzing the agronomic and chemical indicators of spearmint, which grows in Turkey.
In the domestic scientific paradigm, E. L. Malankina classifies and describes mint varieties.
The Czech researcher Neugeboyrova Yarmila is engaged in the species and hybrid diversity of mint.
In dietetics
American researchers point to the choleretic properties of mint, and explain the effectiveness of diets with the inclusion of mint tea by improving the outflow of bile, which accelerates fat breakdown. The expediency of mint aromatherapy for appetite suppression has been experimentally proven. Subjects who inhaled mint flavor, experienced less hunger and were satisfied with a reduced amount of calories.
In cooking
Mint is a real find when you need to diversify a simple dish by adding a spicy touch. A couple of leaves of dried or fresh herbs will significantly change the taste of soup or salad. Meat dishes and pastries also go well with mint splashes. This spice is valued by oriental cooks. mint recipes so diverse that they can make up a separate cookbook, so the question " What to cook with mint"It's just a matter of taste. Mint is one of the essential ingredients of the legendary drink. mojito.
mojito recipe:
You will need 40 ml of white rum, 6 peppermint leaves, 30 ml of lime juice, 10 g of light cane sugar, half a glass of crushed ice and 0.25 liters of soda. Grind mint leaves with lime juice and granulated sugar, fill the glass with crushed ice, mix with mint mass and pour in rum and soda.
Incredibly tasty and non-alcoholic mint drinks:
Moroccan mint tea
To prepare, take 2-4 mint stalks with leaves, a quarter cup of granulated sugar, 2 incomplete tablespoons of green tea, 150 ml of water. Separate the leaves from the stems, throw in a teapot, add sugar, brew in 50 ml of boiling water. Prepare green tea in another teapot, brewing with the remaining boiling water. Insist 3 minutes. Strain tea and mint leaves from two teapots and pour into one container. Arrange in cups on a mint stalk and pour the finished tea. Serve with crushed sugar.
mint julep
Take a handful of mint raw materials, 1 lemon or lime and a liter of sparkling water. Wash mint leaves and chop. Then puree in a blender with 100 ml of water. Combine the pureed mass with the juice of one lemon or lime, pour over with soda and strain. Serve julep in glasses garnished with mint leaves and lemon wedges.
A pastry chef who wants to make a mint dessert also has plenty to choose from.
mint cookie recipe(culinary of France):
It will take 80 g of butter and sugar, 160 g of flour, 20 g of fresh mint leaves, an egg - 1 piece.
Grind granulated sugar with mint leaves. Combine the resulting mixture with softened butter and knead. Pour flour, add egg. Blind small balls, and form them with your fingers into small cakes. Bake for about 20 minutes at 175 degrees, until golden brown. Store cookies in a tightly closed jar.
Useful for making refreshing drinks mint ice: mint leaves, arranged in molds, pour boiled water and send to the freezer.
mint sauce are harmoniously paired with lamb and pork dishes, and meat prepared for cooking in a mint marinade will satisfy the most demanding gourmets.
In cosmetology
Mint in cosmetology justified itself as a valuable and multifunctional plant. Mint has a beneficial effect on the skin, hair, moisturizes, nourishes and heals. This herb is included in both professional skin care cosmetics and a variety of homemade cosmetics. cosmetics. Mint is used in masks for skin, hair, lotions, tonics, compresses, and lotions are created on its basis. Shampoos and hair rinses based on mint extract help with seborrhea.
In perfumery
In Greek culture, mint was credited with aphrodisiac properties. Wreaths were woven from it, added to the water for ablutions and used when cleaning the premises. Today, this plant is used in perfumery. Peppermint-based aromatic oils are useful in the treatment of migraine and in the fight against unpleasant odors. Well-known brands have created perfumes and eau de toilette based on mint notes. Popular mint scented perfumes: Acqua di Gioia by Giorgio Armani Aqua Allegoria Herba Fresca from Guerlain.
Other uses
Mint is a kind of natural fumigator. Insect pests do not tolerate the smell of this plant. If you plant a mint area around the house, you can forget about cockroaches, flies and moths for a long time.
Depending on the era and cultural affiliation of countries, mint at different times was a symbol of hospitality, inspiration, and creativity. In world literature, one of the most famous references to fragrant grass is the detective novel by the French writer Marguerite Duras " English mint". The Soviet futurist poet Nikolai Aseev, in poetry about his own work, wrote that his poems were “made of mint and wormwood”, comparing the beneficial effect of the word with the healing power of mint. The fairy tale about mint "Fragrant Mint" was created by the children's writer Iris Revue.
Dangerous properties of mint and contraindications
In case of hypersensitivity to menthol, you can not use toothpaste, cream that contain it, as this can cause urticaria, skin redness, headache. It should also be used very carefully mint oil for the treatment of the skin of infants. In large doses, peppermint oil can cause vomiting, ataxia, and sometimes, due to its action on the central nervous system, acceleration of the respiratory rate, convulsions, and even death from paralysis of the respiratory center.
Apart from allergies and infants, mint is not recommended in any form for children under 3 years of age, pregnant women and those who drive, as this plant causes drowsiness. Medical consultation is necessary in each of the cases of possible treatment with mint preparations. You should not buy dried or freshly picked grass at market points or in the transition. The origin of such raw materials may be associated with unsuitable environmental conditions, the grass could be collected near the roadway. In this case, mint will be a receptacle for toxins that are dangerous to human health.
The use of mint in any form should be discarded if the patient is simultaneously taking:
- preparations containing iron;
- cyclosporine;
- any of the antibiotics or antifungal agent;
- anticonvulsants;
- drugs to lower blood pressure, any drug for "cores".
We have collected the most important points about the benefits and possible harms of mint in this illustration and we will be very grateful if you share the picture on social networks, with a link to our page:
Botanical description
It is a perennial ethereal herb from the family Yasnotkovyh (Lamiaceae).
origin of name
The name of the plant is borrowed from Greek and Roman mythologies. Latin word " Mentha”was the name of the nymph Menta (in the Greek version - Minta), turned by the jealous wife of the ruler of the underworld into fragrant, fragrant grass.
Kinds
The generic system of the plant has 42 species and many hybrids. The most famous and used in various fields are the following types of mint and its hybrids:
- 1 Peppermint- a hybrid of two wild species (garden and water mint). The melliferous properties of this variety of mint are highly valued by modern beekeepers;
- 2 Longleaf mint- grows in Europe, Asia, on the African continent. The spicy taste has contributed to the fact that this species has taken pride of place among the spices of world cuisine;
- 3 Water mint- grows on moist soil, near a water source. This type of mint has taken root in Europe, but is also found in African and Asian countries;
- 4 fragrant mint- common in the Mediterranean, Asia Minor region, Europe. Used in cooking and medicine;
- 5 field mint- grows in Europe, Asia, the Caucasus, India and Nepal. Component of many herbal teas;
- 6 apple mint- from the Asia Minor countries and Egypt, it spread to the Transcaucasus and took root in southern Europe. Found wide application in the confectionery business;
- 7 Japanese mint- a rather rare species, a representative of the flora Japanese islands. Used in the cosmetic industry;
- 8 Pennyroyal (or flea mint)- grows in northern Africa, eastern Asia, common in Europe, in the Caucasus mountains;
- 9 Curly mint- grows in the north of America, in some Western European and southern European countries.
The rhizome of the plant is branched, creeping, gives numerous shoots. Stem with many branches, up to half a meter in height. According to phenotypic characteristics, black and white mint are distinguished. The leaves of the first variety are purple, red-violet, white mint is light green. The flowering period of white mint begins earlier, its essential oil has a more subtle aroma. But white mint yields are lower than black mint. Therefore, in industrial cultivation, preference is given to the latter variety. The leaf arrangement is opposite, the arrangement of flowers is annular. mint flowers small, purple-red, collected in an inflorescence spike. A characteristic property of all types of mint is a persistent aroma.
The species diversity of mint is so wide that the plant can be found almost everywhere. Peppermint is grown in vegetable gardens and orchards, water mint has chosen places near water bodies, long-leaved mint grows in swamps, in highlands and alder groves.
In history
The history of mint cultivation dates back centuries: mankind has long used the storehouse of beneficial properties that this plant offers. How did mint spread around the world? The Romans brought it to the islands of Britain, for example. Pliny wrote about mint: The smell of mint makes the mind soar, and the appetite expands and grows.". Mint is mentioned in medieval manuscripts, it is known that already in the ninth century it becomes a garden crop among the British. Mentions of spearmint can be found in the texts of Chaucer.
In the 14th century, mint was used to whiten teeth, and later, the fragrant oil extracted from it was added to toothpaste, soap and confectionery. Thus arose peppermint, the oldest cultivated member of the flora, a hybrid of which was bred by the British in the seventeenth century, believed to be by crossing other species. On the territory of Russia, they began to cultivate mint a century later (this process coincided with the activities of the so-called pharmacy gardens). AT Soviet time the plant was cultivated on the territory of the former republics on a huge scale.
Growing conditions
The method of propagation of the plant is vegetative: mint is distributed by dividing the root system, and not only rhizomes, but also with the help of rooted stems and leaves. Basic soil requirements: moisture. Mint is a high-yielding plant, provided it is grown in low-lying areas, which are characterized by shallow groundwater. With abundant snow cover, mint is able to withstand sub-zero temperatures up to the “30” mark. But in snowless frosts, she dies. The most favorable for mint is summer weather with a temperature regime of 18 to 22 C. Frequent rains and heat lead to the appearance of fungal diseases that negatively affect the amount of essential oil produced by mint. The site for planting rhizomes must be plowed to a depth of 25 - 27 cm, while applying organic fertilizers. In early spring, the soil is cultivated. Fresh unsprouted rhizomes are planted by hand in a square-nested way. When weeds appear, crops are cultivated to a depth of 8 - 10 cm. The first collection falls on the period of budding and the beginning of flowering (in July - August), re-collection of mint is possible after regrowth in September. Mint blooms in June - July.
mint collection begins in July (sometimes in August) and coincides with the period of flower budding. Mint is harvested and repeated, in September, after regrowth.
In the cultivation of mint on an industrial scale, the grass is mowed with special mowing devices. In the daytime, the raw materials are dried, in the evening they are collected in small sheaves. Drying continues until a certain degree of fragility of the stems. Then the leaves are separated from the stems. Mechanized harvesting and cleaning give crushed raw materials, cleaned of hard stem parts. The safety of raw materials is ensured in dry, well-ventilated areas for up to 2 years.
How to properly store mint? The answer to this question is determined by the form in which - dried or fresh - you need to save this healing herb. Dried mint is best stored in cloth bags. The life of fresh mint will extend the life of a damp waffle towel and refrigerator. Mint leaves can also be frozen and stored for a long time. freezer, in a tightly tied bag or plastic container.
How to grow mint at home
You can enjoy the mint harvest not only on personal plot, in the garden. If desired, you can grow mint at home, on the windowsill, in an ordinary flower pot. When planting mint, use seeds or rooted, sprouted mint stalks. Caring for mint in an apartment or house is quite simple: moderate watering, periodic top dressing, moisturizing the aerial part of the plant, additional lighting in the cold season and maintaining the optimum temperature (about 20 degrees).
Growing mint can be accompanied by problems that many gardeners face - pests and diseases affecting the plant. Among the pests attracted by mint mint flea, aphid, mint mite, leaf beetle and others. The best way to deal with them is to use the appropriate insecticides and spray according to the instructions. It should be remembered that the plant must be processed at least a month before the start of the harvest in order to avoid a high concentration of harmful substances in the mint stem and leaves. Mint is often affected by a disease such as rust. At the same time, the lower part of the leaves is covered with voluminous brown spots. The lesion spreads quickly enough and soon the whole plant becomes ill. Rust is caused by a fungus. In case of fungal infection, you need to use a special spray solution. The occurrence of rust is facilitated by high humidity, a rather low temperature regime, the “age” of the mint grown, and an increased level of nitrogen in the soil. Preventive rust control measures on mint bushes: you need to feed the soil with a mixture of phosphorus and potassium, replant plants in time and be sure to burn the stems affected by the disease.
Power circuit
Peppermint has been successfully used as a flavor and aroma additive in dog and cat food because of its strong-smelling essential oils. In this case, dried stems or leaves of the herb are used, sometimes an extract. Improvements in taste are achieved with the help of different varieties of mint, but it remains especially attractive to pets (cats or cats) cat mint
"Elixir of Life", "Longevity Grass" - in China this is the name of the ginseng plant, and in Russia it is mint.
Its beneficial properties have been known since ancient times. It is very popular among well-known herbalists, as it is used in the treatment of many diseases. It is brewed as a pain reliever and remedy for insomnia, it helps with headaches and normalizes heart rhythm, freshens breath and improves digestion, lowers blood pressure and makes breathing easier in diseases of the respiratory system, has an anti-inflammatory and relaxing effect. And this is not a complete list of all the useful properties of mint.
It must be borne in mind that there are many types of this plant. But the most useful is peppermint. Modern medicine has found in it a large number useful substances: vitamins A, B, C, PP, folic acid, flavonoids, trace elements represented by iron, zinc, manganese, copper and macronutrients, including sodium, calcium and potassium, magnesium, phosphorus. And dietary fiber, saturated fatty acids, essential oils.
Older people are happy to drink a cup of mint tea at night so that their sleep is healthy and sound. For the same purpose, it is recommended to put a bag of dried mint at the head of the bed. Just her smell is enough to calm the nerves and fall asleep quickly.
Mint is also called the female plant. It was believed that she not only calms, but also makes the fairer sex more feminine. What our ancestors guessed on an intuitive level, today Turkish scientists have proved scientifically. They conducted an experiment with a group of women who had an excess of the male hormone testosterone in their blood. After these women drank several cups of mint tea daily over a period of time, their testosterone levels dropped significantly. Moreover, in women who had an excess of body hair, like men, "hair" was significantly reduced.
Does this mean that mint, based on these properties, has a negative effect on the male body? To test this, American scientists conducted experiments on laboratory rats. At the Institute of Nutrition, rodents were given only mint tea instead of water. After a short time, the level of testosterone in the blood of males decreased significantly. And some time later, they developed incurable disorders of testicular function.
Specialists of the Russian Institute of Reproductive Medicine confirm that mint can lead to a decrease in potency, a weakening of erection. This is partly due to the sedative properties of the plant, but also, of course, lowering testosterone levels with it. And their American colleagues say that if a man is very fond of mint tea, this leads to rounding of forms, a decrease in body hair. That is, due to a decrease in the level of the male hormone, the feminine principles begin to predominate. True, the scientists clarify, in order for it to come to this, a man needs to drink mint tea for a long period and, brewing several cups of a very strong drink daily.
Another nuance associated with mint tea for men. In various experiments, it has been found that mint tea slows down the activity of spermatozoa. If tea is consumed in moderation, then this will not affect male potency in any way, but the chances of becoming a father in a man will be significantly reduced.
At the same time, scientists pay special attention to the fact that in moderate doses, tea for men is very useful. Its main component, menthol, which forms the basis of the essential oils that make up mint, freshens breath, eliminates excessive sweating, and brings a touch of freshness to the body. All this, as a rule, does not leave women indifferent.
We are all familiar with the fragrant and fragrant mint tea. But the plant from which this tea is made has unique medicinal properties. Why is mint so useful? Are there any contraindications for use?
Mint is a plant belonging to the mint family. There are many varieties, but only a few are known: fragrant mint, peppermint, garden, water, and some others.
Such a plant is common in regions with a temperate climate, it can be found in vegetable gardens and gardens, some are engaged in cultivation.
Mint has been known for a very, very long time. Yes, already in Ancient Rome it was known and revered, considering it a powerful healing plant.
There is a legend according to which such a plant is the most beautiful nymph that was enchanted and turned into grass.
Our grandmothers and great-grandmothers added mint to tea, but gradually the plant began to be used for other purposes. For example, many dishes are decorated with leaves. European cuisine. In addition, greens are often added to salads, cocktails and hot dishes.
Compound
The medicinal properties of the plant are fully explained by its composition, because it is incredibly rich and unique. It includes ash, various essential oils, fiber, various organic acids (chlorogenic, ursulic, coffee, oleonolic), phytosterol, arginine, betaine, menthol, flavonoids, tannins, and even fats, carbohydrates and proteins.
There are also vitamins here, such as B2, B5, B6, B9, PP, C, A. The calorie content of mint is low and is only 50-70 calories per 100 grams.
Benefit
How useful is mint? Beneficial features such plants are numerous:
But remember that mint, the beneficial properties of which have been listed, has contraindications and side effects!
Is mint harmful?
Almost any plant can be harmful to health if used incorrectly and not to know when to stop. Mint has some contraindications for use:
- Since mint stimulates the production of gastric juice, it is contraindicated in certain diseases of the stomach, such as an ulcer during an exacerbation or gastritis with high acidity.
- It is impossible not to mention such contraindications as varicose veins and hypotension. This is due to the property of the plant to dilate blood vessels, which can be dangerous with dilated veins and low blood pressure.
- Individual intolerance.
- Childhood. The plant is not recommended for children under 5 years of age.
Contraindications are listed, now it is worth listing the side effects:
- It is believed that if abused, male potency may suffer. But a decrease in sexual desire and reproductive dysfunction can occur when the plant is consumed in large quantities.
- Allergies can occur, so you need to be careful and monitor the reaction.
- If the dosage is exceeded, heartburn may occur.
- If abused, digestive disorders are possible.
Before using mint, you need to find out contraindications and it is advisable to consult a specialist. Also, keep your doses in check. So, 5-7 leaves of fresh mint or a teaspoon of dried mint will suffice per day.
Remember that with prolonged use, the effect will be minimized, as there is a place to be addictive.
How to apply?
We offer several recipes:
Health to you!
Not everyone knows that the melissa plant is a type of mint. It is also called lemon mint or mint. Its properties are similar to those of mint. The people know such a statement that lemon balm and mint can have a negative impact on men's health. Is this really so: is mint dangerous for men, or is mint useful for men, just like for women? The issue deserves attention, if only because today mint is added to many drinks and culinary products, cosmetics, balms, cold and cold preparations. We propose to consider in detail the properties and action of mint, taking into account all the arguments and rebuttals.
Most likely, there is no such 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 a pleasant taste and aroma of the drink, but gives it a 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 see this just by looking at the list, which shows a wide range of herbs.
What is useful mint with lemon balm:
So, is mint bad for men's health, let's figure it out.
The impact of mint on the male body
In the treatises of Ayurveda, lemon balm and mint are described as means that can give the head clarity, and the body - vivacity, increase the overall tone of the body. The opposite side of the "medal" is the ability of herbs to act soothingly on the nervous system, relaxing the body. From this follows the conclusion, which says 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 use of teas and drinks containing mint, then he will undoubtedly be able to feel 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 allowed to drink mint tea. The result of this experience was a significant decrease in the level of testosterone in the blood of males after a certain period of time. A little later, incurable disorders of testicular function appeared.
The picture is not happy. But one should take into account the nuance that the laboratory subjects completely replaced all the water for drinking 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 frequent use will not have negative impact 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 bring the same “harm” to the male body, as well as mint for men. Despite the fact that lemon balm from time immemorial has been considered a herb for women, thanks to the phytoandrogens included in its composition, you can not be afraid for its use in the form of decoctions and teas.
Essential oils contained in the plant are endowed with strongly pronounced antiviral and bactericidal properties. Some categories of men are quite well aware of such a remedy as lemon balm balm against hair loss. These esters are very useful for the work of the heart and blood vessels. Inhalation of lemon balm vapors leads to a decrease in blood pressure, a reduction in the frequency of the heartbeat. Due to the influence of these properties, even people who do not tolerate a sauna or bath can well withstand high temperatures. And regardless of the heat, their heart rhythm improves, the process of restoring the functions of organs after prolonged exertion begins. Aromatherapy sessions held in a sauna or bath give a feeling of lightness in the body, increase the psycho-emotional mood.
"The elixir of life" - so called Melissa Paracelsus. That is quite explainable by its unique properties. Dried grass can be put into cotton socks and put on your feet at night. In this way, you can get rid of the foot odor of sweat. A mixture of lemon balm with honey is an excellent remedy for bad breath. By the way, the last method was used by the ancient Romans.
And how to be treated with mint?
In addition to the above properties, these herbs have some more that are not so widely known. Ancient people believed that mint stimulates the activity of the mind. Modern scientists have proved protective action mint on the bone marrow and reproductive system of women and men, against the influence of increased radiation.
Peppermint can be very affordable for use in homemade beauty products. Mint is able to tone and improve the elasticity of aging skin.
With increased 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 grass is poured with a liter of boiling water, wrapped, kept for 30 minutes). Menthol reduces pores, and this prevents the release of sweat, the mint aroma of the foot deodorizes, and the unpleasant odor is removed. In addition, swelling will disappear from the ankles, and relief will come for tired legs.
Mint for men can be used as effective remedy against the appearance of nightmares. It is recommended for those who do not fall asleep well, and wake up often at night. Fill a small cloth 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.
Mint is a perennial herb with oblong pointed leaves and small flowers. People learned to make tea from it several hundred years ago. The plant helps fight many ailments, and its pleasant menthol smell refreshes and tones. Let's take a closer look at what effects mint produces on the body, the benefits and harms of which have long been objects of study by scientists and doctors.
The composition of peppermint and its effect on the body
Peppermint, which is one of more than three hundred species of this herb, has found wide application in cooking and medicine. It was bred in England by crossing water and spearmint.
For medicinal purposes, the plant is harvested during the flowering period - in July and August. Its leaves give the maximum benefit to health - they contain the most active substances:
The totality of the components that make up the plant determines the effects it produces on the body. Allocate:
- sedative effect of mint, the benefits and harms of which depend on the initial state of the patient;
- anti-inflammatory and disinfectant;
- choleretic and antispasmodic;
- diuretic;
- painkiller;
- vasodilating;
- antiemetic action.
The use of mint: health benefits and harms
Since ancient times, people have been using peppermint in cooking, cosmetology and pharmacology. The tonic smell allows the plant to be used in aromatherapy, and the unique chemical composition makes it possible to produce medicines for treatment from the herb. cardiovascular diseases, colds, migraines, inflammation of the digestive tract and biliary tract. Meanwhile, mint also has contraindications, which are important to consider in order to avoid harm to health.
Beneficial effects of herbs on health
A great many recipes have been developed to benefit from a plant with a menthol smell. From generation to generation, the rules governing how to prepare a decoction, lotion or brew tea from mint are passed down. Even our great-grandmothers knew what a beneficial effect a drink from it produces on well-being. They brewed tea with this fragrant herb when they wanted to calm down, relax, get rid of anxiety. And to make its use even more enjoyable, they added homemade jam or honey to it. 
There are several ways to use the plant, each of which has features, indications and contraindications.
mint tincture
To prepare the tincture, you will need a glass of boiling water and two teaspoons of dried leaves. Fill the raw material with water and insist for an hour. Use a healing agent in a warm form. If desired, lemon is added to the drink.
Tincture is prepared not only on water, but also on alcohol. For this purpose, 100 g of dried raw materials and 0.5 l alcohol solution(75%). We lower the leaves of the plant in a jar, fill it with alcohol. The remedy must be insisted (2 weeks). For treatment, 25 drops dissolved in a small amount of water are enough.
Received medication from pleasant smell allows food to be digested faster, relieves the patient from spasms of the stomach and intestines, eliminates heartburn and flatulence. The tincture will also be beneficial for gastritis, pain in the liver, colitis and diarrhea.
Melissa or mint is what you need in cases where a woman wants to reduce the level of testosterone in the body and increase the level of progesterone. The gift of nature also helps with nausea during pregnancy, however, during the period of expectation of a child, peppermint should be used with caution, making sure that there is no contraindication to the remedy. In addition, it is recommended to regularly brew the plant for a woman who is unwell during menstruation. 
For acute respiratory infections, flu and sore throats, infused herbal tea will bring maximum benefit if you drink it with raspberry jam. The same medicine will also help with coughing. If you insist on the remedy by adding a slice of lemon to it, then the general strengthening properties of the drink will increase.
Inhalations based on lemon balm tincture eliminate the symptoms of colds, bronchitis and sore throats. Their benefits are great and, if necessary, relieve the spasm associated with bronchial asthma.
Alcohol tincture of peppermint can be rubbed into certain areas of the skin to eliminate pain symptoms. Thus, you can get rid of headaches, sprains and bruises.
Mint decoction
To prepare a decoction, you need to take 50 g of dry or fresh raw materials and boil it for 15 minutes in 1 liter of water. Then the remedy must be insisted - the process will take half an hour.
This product is characterized by a high concentration of active substances, therefore it is used mainly externally. Brewed mint will not harm if taken orally, provided that there is no contraindication to the active substances contained in it.
With dermatoses, a decoction is added to the water in the bath. A mint bath is also indicated for insomnia and nervous tension. It will also be useful when you want to return a good mood and improve overall well-being.
The grass should also be brewed in the presence of rosacea. Daily washing with a remedy will not only get rid of the problem, but also return a healthy complexion. 
Ice cubes are made from the decoction, with which they rub the cheeks, nose, forehead and neck in the morning. This procedure tones the skin, tightens pores, gives the face a pleasant blush.
Regular use of infused decoction as a rinse will benefit the hair, making it healthy and silky. Rinse off after application is not required.
mint oil
Peppermint oil can be bought at a pharmacy, but there is also home recipe this tool. We take the washed and dried leaves of the plant and put them in a plastic bag, which we then seal tightly with tape. We beat off the greens with a wooden mallet. We unpack the raw materials, transfer it to a glass jar, fill it with olive or coconut oil, shake the jar, and then infuse the product for 24 hours. We filter the mixture. We repeat the procedure several times, using fresh leaves all the time, pouring them with infused oil.
The remedy is used for insomnia. To get rid of the harm that lack of sleep entails, just put a dozen drops of oil on a cotton pad and place it at the head of the bed.
For headaches, an alternative to brewed lemon balm tea can be compresses with oil from this herb. This method of treatment is able to cope even with a severe migraine.
Harm of peppermint
The undeniable benefits of the plant do not exclude the likelihood of harm that it can cause to health:
- An absolute contraindication to the use of any means with mint is individual intolerance. A plant with a menthol smell can cause serious harm to the body, causing a strong allergic reaction.
- Peppermint is contraindicated in children under the age of three.
- The significant benefit that mint brings to the well-being of the expectant mother during pregnancy does not mean at all that while expecting a baby, a drink with this plant can be drunk in any quantity. In order not to harm the fetus, mint tea should be reduced to 1 time per day and 3 times a week. In this case, it is necessary to brew the product no more than 2-3 minutes.
- Another contraindication to the use of mint is a tendency to low blood pressure.
- The ability of fragrant herbs to reduce the level of testosterone in the body can harm the male potency. However, this negative effect is observed only in cases where a man brews tea with lemon balm for more than five minutes and drinks it very often.
- Many doctors argue that varicose veins are a contraindication to the use of herbal remedies. The fact is that peppermint worsens vascular tone, causing an exacerbation of this disease.
- Due to the potential for harm to health, people with kidney and gallbladder disease should consult a physician before brewing peppermint tea.
Invaluable benefit medicinal plants for human health. However, by applying them healing properties, we must not forget about the potential harm that they can cause to the body.
