11 Benefits of Mint Leaves and Why You Should Start Eating Them
If you’re like most Kenyans, you probably don’t eat enough leafy greens. The average person only consumes around one serving per day. This is troubling because leafy greens are some of the most nutrient-dense foods on the planet. They are packed with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that can boost your health in many ways. One type of leafy green that you should add to your diet is mint leaves.
What are Mint Leaves?
Mint leaves are the leaves of the mint plant, an herb in the Mint family. There are over a dozen different species of mint, but the two most common ones are peppermint (Mentha piperita) and spearmint (Mentha spicata).
Mint leaves have been used for centuries in traditional medicine and are a popular flavor ingredient in many cuisines around the world. Mint leaves are one of the most versatile, healthy, and delicious herbs. They add a wonderfully refreshing flavor to food and drinks, and also offer a range of health benefits.
Benefits of Mint Leaves
Here are eleven reasons why you should start eating mint leaves today!
1. Mint leaves are rich in vitamins and minerals
One of the most impressive things about mint leaves is their nutrient content. Just one ounce (28 grams) of fresh mint leaves contains:
* Vitamin A: 17% of the RDI
* Vitamin C: 24% of the RDI
* Folate: 6% of the RDI
* Potassium: 3% of the RDI
* Manganese: 7% of the RDI
Mint leaves are also a good fiber, calcium, copper, and iron source. Given their nutrient density, it’s no surprise that mint leaves have been linked to many health benefits.
To maintain a healthy weight, you need to eat a balanced diet that includes a variety of nutrient-rich foods. Adding mint leaves to your diet is a great way to increase your intake of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.
2. Mint leaves can improve digestion
Mint leaves have long been used as a natural remedy for digestive problems like indigestion, nausea, and stomach pain. They are thought to stimulate bile production, which helps break down fats in the gut.
The compounds in mint leaves also help relax the smooth muscles of the digestive tract, making it easier for food to pass through.
Mint leaves can also help relieve bloating and gas. This is due to their carminative effect, which means they help expel gas from the intestines.
If you’re looking for a natural way to improve your digestion, try adding some mint leaves to your diet. You can add them to water or tea or use them to make a delicious minty dressing for salads.
3. Mint leaves can help relieve stress and anxiety
In aromatherapy, mint is used as an essential oil to help relieve stress and anxiety. The refreshing, cooling scent of mint is thought to help clear the mind and promote relaxation. Mint leaves can also be used similarly. When consumed, the compounds in mint leaves are thought to have a calming effect on the body and mind. This may help to reduce stress and anxiety levels.
If you’re looking for a natural way to reduce stress and anxiety, try adding mint leaves to your diet. You can add them to water or tea or use them to make a delicious minty dressing for salads.
4. Mint leaves can enhance brain function
Mint leaves are a good source of the antioxidant rosmarinic acid, which has been shown to improve cognitive function and memory. Rosmarinic acid can also help to protect the brain from age-related damage.
In one study, older adults who took a rosmarinic acid supplement performed better on memory tests than those who did not. If you’re looking for a way to boost your brainpower, try adding mint leaves to your diet.
5. Mint leaves can improve your skin health
Mint leaves are rich in antioxidants that can help to protect the skin from damage. These antioxidants can also help to reduce inflammation and soothe irritation. Mint leaves can be used topically or consumed to reap their skin benefits. To use mint leaves topically, crush a few leaves and apply them to the skin. You can also add mint leaves to your diet by adding them to salads, smoothies, or teas.
6. Mint leaves can aid in weight loss
If you’re trying to lose weight, mint leaves can be a helpful addition to your diet. Mint has been shown to boost metabolism and promote satiety. In one study, people who took a mint leaf extract before meals consumed less food than those who did not. Mint leaves can also help to reduce cravings for sweet and fatty foods. Try adding mint leaves to your next salad or smoothie.
7. Mint leaves can help to relieve stress and anxiety
Mint leaves have a calming effect on the body and can help to reduce stress and anxiety. Mint is thought to work by stimulating the release of serotonin, a brain chemical that has mood-boosting effects. In one study, people who inhaled peppermint oil for five minutes had reduced anxiety and stress levels. You can also try drinking mint tea or adding mint leaves to your bath water for a relaxing experience.
8. Mint leaves can help soothe headaches and migraines
Mint has a cooling effect that can help to relieve headaches and migraines. Mint is thought to work by constricting blood vessels and reducing inflammation. You can try applying a mint leaf paste to your forehead or drinking mint tea when you feel a headache.
9. They have anti-inflammatory properties
Mint leaves can help to reduce inflammation thanks to their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. In one study, people with arthritis who took a mint leaf extract had reduced levels of inflammation. Mint leaves can also be applied topically to relieve inflammation and pain. Try crushing a few mint leaves and applying them to the affected area.
10. Use mint leaves for fresh breath
The menthol in mint leaves has anti-bacterial properties, making them great for oral hygiene care. Add a few mint leaves to your water or chew on a couple after meals. You can also try crushing mint leaves and rubbing them on your teeth and gums.
11. Use the leaves to make DIY skincare products
Mint leaves can be used to make homemade skincare products like face masks, toners, and scrubs. Mint has a cooling effect on the skin and can help to reduce irritation. It can also help to brighten the skin and improve its complexion.
To make a minty face mask:
- Combine two tablespoons of mashed mint leaves with one tablespoon of yogurt.
- Apply the mask to your face and leave it on for 15 minutes.
- Rinse it off with warm water and pat your skin dry.
You can also add mint leaves to your favorite homemade scrub or toner recipe.
Precautions
Mint leaves are generally safe to consume. However, if you’re allergic to mint, you should avoid consuming it. Mint can also cause heartburn and indigestion in some people. If you experience any adverse effects after consuming mint, discontinue use and speak to a doctor.
Where can I buy mint leaves online?
When buying mint leaves online, make sure to buy from a reputable source. Some companies may sell mint leaves of lower quality or not fresh. This can affect the flavor and efficacy of the leaves. Nawiriplant company sells organic, fresh mint leaves.
How to order fresh mint leaves from Nawiriplant:
Option 1
- Go to our website at www.nawiriplant.co.ke
- Click on the “Shop” tab at the top of the page.
- Select “Mint Leaves” from the drop-down menu.
- Choose the quantity you would like to purchase and add it to your cart.
- Follow the checkout process to complete your purchase.
Option 2
Pay for your order via M-Pesa Till number 50 30 151 and forward the M-Pesa message and your shipping details to 0722 351 897. We will process and ship your order within 24 hours.
Option 3
You can also order by calling us at + 254 759 712 897 or email [email protected].
Also, buy fresh mint leaves from Nawiri HERE.
Mint leaves FAQs answered
How do I use mint leaves?
Mint leaves can be used in a variety of ways. You can add them to your water or tea, chew on them after meals, apply them topically to your skin or take them in supplement form.
What are the benefits of drinking mint water?
Drinking mint water can help to improve digestion, relieve nausea and soothe stomach cramps. Mint is also thought to boost the immune system and reduce inflammation.
Is it good to eat mint leaves every day?
Yes, mint leaves are safe to eat every day. However, if you’re allergic to mint, you should avoid consuming it. Mint can also cause heartburn and indigestion in some people. If you experience any adverse effects after consuming mint, discontinue use and speak to a doctor.
Is it OK to eat raw mint leaves?
Yes, raw mint leaves are safe to eat.
Bottom Line
Mint leaves are a wonderful versatile ingredient that can be used in many ways. Whether you’re looking to improve your digestion, enhance your brain function or lose weight, mint leaves can be a helpful addition to your diet.
Who wouldn’t want to enjoy all these benefits? Start adding mint leaves to your regular diet and feel the positive effects yourself!
Click HERE to order Nawiri’s organic, fresh mint leave. Email us:[email protected]
Disclaimer:
This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Mint leaves should not be used to substitute for a balanced diet and healthy lifestyle. If you have any concerns about using mint leaves, please speak to a healthcare professional.
