History
Pliny tells us that the Greeks and Romans crowned themselves with Peppermint at their feasts and adorned their tables with its sprays, and that their cooks flavoured both their sauces and their wines with its essence. Two species of mint were used by the ancient Greek physicians, but some writers doubt whether either was the modern Peppermint, though there is evidence that M. piperita was cultivated by the Egyptians.
It is mentioned in the Icelandic Pharmacopoeias of the thirteenth century, but only came into general use in the medicine of Western Europe about the middle of the eighteenth century, and then was first used in England.Source
Peppermint
(Mentha piperita)
The peppermint plant has a very characteristic odour, due to the volatile oil present in all its parts, which when applied to the tongue has a hot, aromatic taste at first, and afterwards produces a sensation of cold in the mouth caused by the menthol it contains.
Latin Name
Botanical Family
Europe
Native Region
Used Part
Mentha piperita
Lamiaceae
Herb
Research and Benefits
May Relieve Tension Headaches & Migraines
As peppermint acts as a muscle relaxant and pain reliever, it may diminish certain types of headaches. The menthol in peppermint oil increases blood flow and provides a cooling sensation, possibly easing pain.
May Improve Energy &
Improve Concentration
Peppermint may improve energy levels and reduce daytime fatigue. In one study, 24 healthy young people experienced less fatigue during a cognitive test when given peppermint oil capsules
May Improve Seasonal Allergies
In one randomized 21-day study in 29 people with seasonal allergies, those given an oral supplement containing peppermint had fewer symptoms of itchy nose, itchy eyes and other symptoms than those given a placebo.
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