Use Mint to Treat Upset Stomach
Edited by Jmgf, Lynn, Eng, Nuance
Peppermint (Mentha piperita) is a part of the most recognized plant species among the plant family. It is known for its abundant uses - to flavour food, as a disinfectant and it's various uses as an herbal remedy. Among these, it's probably most frequently used as an effective relief for the stomach and the intestines.
Peppermint's essential oil (menthol) is responsible for the herb's efficiency as an antiseptic, analgesic and decongestant. Menthol is a "refrigerant", and as the name implies, works to cool down the body. It has carminative properties making it a good choice to expel gas and preventing bloating in the digestive system. It is an effective way to relieve the gas and pains caused by indigestion, irritable bowel syndrome or intestinal cramps.
Making your own peppermint tea out of fresh mint leaves, or using commercial tea bags is a gentle and effective way to treat an upset stomach, since it provides immediate relief due to the direct contact with the stomach and the intestines.
Making a Peppermint Infusion (Tea)
- 1If you can't get fresh leaves, dried mint leaves will also do.Gather fresh organic peppermint leaves.
- 2Crush the peppermint leaves using a mortar and pestle.
- 3Make a tea from the fresh/dried mint leaves by pouring boiling over them in a teapot, preferably with an infuser.
- 4Add a drop or two of peppermint oil in your tea to strengthen the effects.
- 5Add ginger, sugar and baking soda into your mint tea to add flavor, additional medicinal benefits and, with the baking soda, ease your stomach ache faster.Add-ins:
- 6Drink three cups of mint tea during the day to help relieve your stomach discomforts.
Skin Application
- 1The soothing and cooling effect of the mint on the skin will help relieve your stomachaches.Add 3-10 drops of mint oil to a carrier like grape seed oil, or olive oil, and massage into the stomach area where you're experiencing discomfort.
Since the peppermint oil will be an essential part in making your natural remedies for stomachaches and other ailments, here are some guidelines and steps for making your own peppermint oil.
Making Peppermint Oil
- 1It's easy to grow - crazy easy, and there's no use in using it as a remedy if it's been soaked in pesticides.Start with organic peppermint.
Benefits of Peppermint
- Adds a distinct flavor to food.
- Decongestant for colds and coughs.
- Soothes and relieves stomach pains.
- Relief from indigestion.
- Cooling effect helps ease and relaxing strained muscles.
- Relieves headaches and dizziness.
Tips
- If you massage your stomach with the mint oil by using your bare hands for a few minutes, the heat your hands and the massage increase the absorption of the menthol.
- If you have a headache, try massaging some of the mint oil into your temples.
- Tired feet? Put either fresh bruised (lightly crushed) leaves into a basin, add hot water. When the water has cooled enough, soak your tired puppies.
Caution
- Avoid the artificially flavored peppermint candies since they will not help ease stomach pain.
- Pregnant women are not advised to drink mint teas as the mint can stimulate the uterus, encouraging premature labor.
- Peppermint oil contains strong substances and is too intense for the delicate skin of babies...so do not use on baby's skin.
If you have problems with any of the steps in this article, please ask a question for more help, or post in the comments section below.
