Haven’t you made an acquaintance with this name? You must have at some point in time. If you can’t retain the meaning, let me jog your memory. It is that favorite flavor of your chewing gum that sugarcoats your taste buds. Check out the wrap, you can’t find the name? A Latin word must be written on it then. Yes! “Mentha Spicata”? Bull’s eye, there goes your spearmint.
Really, I am not a fan of big talk, but I may be forced to make one out of this plant, the “Spearmint Leaf”. This is one herb that can wage a major stakeholder influence on essentially principal arrangements and systems that dictate the state of affairs in your body. Cut the vocabulary, all I am saying is that the plant, when processed for household usage, can guide the body to healthy conditions across all areas of digestion, circulation, respiration, and immunity. Before we advance any further on what is so unique about spearmint, a bio-data on the plant itself would, first, be put into consideration so you know what we are dealing with.
Profiling the Plant
Spearmint leaf is a species of the mint family scientifically coded as “Mentha Spicata”. It is exceptionally referred to as common mint, garden mint, mackerel mint or lady’s mint as it was called in Germany. The plant is natural to the continent of Asia, Europe and is artificially grown in the western region of Africa, the continent of North America and South America. More so, spearmint leaf is a perennial herb that derives the name ‘spear’ from its spear-like leaves which are pointed at the tip. The leaf is 5-9 centimeters long and 1.5-3 centimeters wide. Most people seem to love this mint, perhaps this enlightens on why it is described as that species of mint with a pleasant smell that has attracted widespread uses. Its lovely aroma is similar to that of fellow mint family associate, ‘peppermint’. However, it contains less menthol and is quite sweeter in taste.
What’s More?
Do you know the herb has the knack of thriving in just about every mild or temperate climate? Well, you do now; it is quite a survivor, especially for a plant. Little wonder you can find it flourishing in different continents possessing unique climatic conditions.
Across these continents, the leaf has an extensive range of uses. Aside from the fact that most gardeners and horticulturists seed it in pots solely to revamp their surroundings, sous-chefs and other cooks alike utilize it in their culinary activities to make sauces, garnish dishes and also flavor drinks like cocktails. Another relative use is registered in the reality that the leaf can be used to yield a special type of tea, the spearmint tea. As a beverage, it is relatively relished in the Cuban ‘Mojito’ cocktail, the Moroccan ‘Maghrebi’ green tea and our revered iced sweet tea. I cannot say for other countries in the world, but recognizing the feat this plant has capably accomplished, I am positive they have nothing but admiration and tribute.
In addition to gastronomy, the spearmint leaf is characterized with the existence of vital nutrients. Though it can be used freshly as a leaf, the plant produces oil that has been vital to industries in the production of household cleanup utilities such as laundry and bathing soaps, shampoos, body scrubs, mouthwashes, and toothpaste. Also, the leaf affords healing remedies to sore throats, nausea, and cramps, all thanks to the essential oil it churns out. Besides, it has further been identified as a reliable insect repellant especially in taking care of adult moths.
Another plus to the hoard of applications is the purposes of beauty and attraction it effortlessly fulfills. That’s right! This mint is an essential ingredient in most cosmetic items which includes makeup, perfumes, and body sprays.
What Does it Really Do?
As already mentioned at the beginning of this article, spearmint leaves are quite a big deal to your health. So, prepare your mind, for it is confession time and I will be taking you through the gains of the herb. Here are health benefits you will find worthy of your time on this page.
Tackling Issues of Digestion
Spearmint plants have a role to play in improving your digestive system. It upholds the default flow of metabolism in your intestine by lobbying against stomach upsets. Intestinal conditions such as Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) and cramps have failed to overcome the powerful presence of the plant either when masticated or processed as tea. Most pregnant women, smartly, enroll it as a treatment for morning sickness, nausea, and vomiting.
Respiratory Health is Safeguarded
The herb is empowered with anti-inflammatory components that help to soothe the organs necessary to respiration. Consequently, it treats sore throats, irritations and even breathing conditions such as asthma.
Antibacterial Uses
As we have discovered, the leaf is used in the production of toothpaste, chewing gums, mouthwashes and other washing utilities. The primary reason for this is because of its antibacterial properties which enable it to counter bad odor and diseases caused by bacteria residing in the body. As an added bonus, it contains menthol which helps to refresh the body with a pleasant aroma.
Averts Chronic Health Diseases
As a good source of potassium, the leaf helps to helps to maintain strong bones and great muscles. Better than that, it minimizes the risk of peculiar heart defects like stroke and heart attack because it boasts a good source of vitamin C which is valuable to the body. Also, the potassium nutrient promotes the health of the heart because it releases the stress and pressure on the blood vessels and arteries. Furthermore, it is another effective way of regulating cholesterol levels in the body. Bottom line is that it protects you from some tormenting health conditions. Amazing, isn’t it?
Improved Circulation is Certified
Again, there is an improvement in the production and circulation of blood when you consume this mint plant. It contains a lot of iron, enough to fire up the creation of hemoglobin and red blood cells. Therefore, this will ensure that your blood conveys important elements across every bend and curve in your system. In so doing, your energy level is boosted and anemia can be prevented.
Eases you of Stress
With a cup of spearmint tea, you can easily relieve yourself from stress and depression. The plant, as earlier mentioned, has an element called menthol. The menthol works as a sedative, a soothing antidote to stress, depression and even anxiety.
Supportive to your Immune System
Since spearmint leaves are capable of counteracting against infections and diseases through its antibacterial and antioxidant properties, it therefore allows for the effective functioning of the immune system. Simply put, they also perform an active role in defending the body from molecular and biological dysfunction.
Final Words…
There`s no doubt that we have been dealing with a powerful variety of the mint family. Spearmint leaves are clearly reliable and can deliver quality benefits. Nature has unconditionally bequeathed us with these herbs; we may not depend on them to ensure our fundamental survival, still, they may prove vital to our health and wellness. All that is needed to be done is to habituate them into our health practices. Hence, your next visit to the superstore should be a mission to track and purchase household necessities carrying the name ‘Spearmint Leaf’ or its scientific alias on the ingredient list. Do this, and illnesses don’t stand a chance.
