Mint: Benefits & Uses
The more you know! Did you know that the mint plant possesses multiple health benefits?
Health Benefits
Mint has multiple beneficial properties like:
*please consult your doctor before relying on any of this information. Each human is unique, and this advice is not intended to replace a medical professional.
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Anti-oxidant - (Protects cells from damage caused by free radicals, unstable molecules linked to aging and diseases like cancer and heart disease by neutralizing the free radicals)
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Anti-obesity- (Aids in weight loss)
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Antimicrobial (Helps to kill or inhibit the growth of microorganisms like bacteria, viruses, and fungi)
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Anti-inflammatory (Reduces inflammation, redness, swelling, and pain in the body)
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Anti-diabetic (Aids in lowering high blood glucose (sugar) levels in patients with diabetes)
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Cardioprotective (Helps to reduce cardiac deterioration, lower blood pressure, and mitigate oxidative stress and inflammation, supporting cardiovascular health)
- Can act as a decongestant when steamed (Temporarily relieves nasal stuffiness by shrinking swollen tissues in the nose and sinuses, allowing for easier breathing)
This information was sourced from the National Library or Medicine article titled: "The Wonderful Activities of the Genus Mentha: Not Only Antioxidant Properties" found here.
***Statements like this one below are one of the reasons that Beeting Hunger Wellness Farms is choosing to focus on these medicinal plants: ↓↓↓
"compared to synthetic drugs some of these natural products have lower toxicity and higher efficacy"
Culinary
Mint is used in a variety of culinary options. Mint tea is one that is fairly common, and is popular among those suffering from IBS and belly aches.
Savory dishes, salads, and sweets also call on mint for its unique flavor profile.
In the Garden
Not only does mint defend your body, but it also defends your garden plants! Plant mint in your garden beds to deter pests that you don't want lurking around; especially ants, aphids, and cabbage moths. If you don't want mint everywhere though, it is best to plant it in pots.
Easy Mint Tea
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15-20 leaves or 2-3 sprigs of the mint plant
- 2-4 Cups water
- Your preferred sweetener (honey or a couple Stevia leaves)
p.s. we will be growing Stevia for a natural sweetener too!
p.s.s. The sweetener is totally optional because mint is already naturally kinda sweet like you!
How to make it
Just a few simple steps
Boil your water.
Place mint leaves in a teapot or your mug after lightly tearing or crushing them to release their natural oils.
Pour the hot water over the mint leaves in your container.
Let steep for 3-7 minutes (the longer the steep, the stronger it will be).
Add sweetener if desired. (if you are using Stevia leaves, add it during the steeping process)
Drink and enjoy when it has cooled to a safe temperature!