Peppermint Plant Uses

According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, peppermint is an herb with many uses such as relieving headaches and killing viruses. This herb is taken in pill, tea or dried powder form. You will find peppermint at your local health food store or online. However, you can also grow this herb at home in your garden.

Menstrual Cramps

• The University of Maryland Medical Center says, peppermint can help reduce menstrual cramping. The properties in this herb help to calm and relax the smooth muscles in the uterus, therefore reliving cramps. To help relieve discomfort, women can drink peppermint tea or take capsules the week before their period and during their menstrual cycle.

Viral Infections

• Peppermint is also an essential herb for fighting viruses and bacteria. Peppermint is a natural anti-bacterial and immune system booster. People take peppermint orally to fight infections, but the herb is also blended with oils and used as a chest rub. The fragrance of the oil combined with this herb helps to open up the chest and relieve congestion.

Headaches

• Peppermint plants are also used to treat headaches. The herb has a mild numbing effect on headaches. However, if you suffer with a severe migraine, peppermint will not make a difference. This herb is only effective on mild to moderate headaches. The University of Maryland Medical Center says, peppermint oil can also be used topically to reduce headaches. The oil is applied to the forehead and temple pressure points.

Digestive Aid

• According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, peppermint is an excellent digestive aid. Peppermint address many stomach issues such as pain and bloating. This herb relieves upset stomach and gas along with improve digestion and regularity.

  Peppermint improves bile flow so that the body can easily digest fats. Pain is reduced because this herb relaxes the smooth muscles in the stomach which is also helpful with relieving gas. The Medical Center says some people with Irritable bowel syndrome report positive effects with peppermint.

Calming

• Peppermint has a calming effect on the body, both internally and externally. Rubbing oil behind your ears or on your neck will help to keep your calm. More research needs to be done, but this effect might be due to the refreshing fragrance of peppermint. Obviously the body is impacted by scents.