Cooling and refreshing mint leaves are one of the most famous herbs in the world. Every Indian household has the presence of this zingy herb as a dash of these delightful leaves can make almost every meal tasty. Popularly known as Pudina in India, mint leaves are part of many Indian food items like raita, chutneys, drinks and are also utilised for garnishing. Mint leaves are widely acclaimed for their cooling and fresh sensation.

Pudina is one of the oldest appetizing herbs known to mankind. From being useful in cooking to several drinks and garnishing, Mint leaves help in giving a refreshing kick to every meal in which it is used. Along with having splendid flavour, this herb is also rich in antioxidant properties. It is great for digestive health and has many other medicinal issues.

Its powerful disease-fighting properties are due to its rich nutritional content which is as follows:

• Calories 6
• Fiber 1 gram
• Vitamin A 2% of the RDI
• Iron 9% of the RD
• Manganese 8% of the RDI
• Folate 4% of the RDI

Mint leaves are also a very good source of Vitamin C and B-complex. Other essential nutrients like potassium, phosphorus and calcium are present in it. Now, let’s have a look at how pudina leaves is beneficial to our health.

Medicinal uses of Mint leaves:

1. Good for digestion:

An upset stomach is definitely troublesome. Mint leaves are cooling agents that work amazing in treating various digestive issues. Menthol, an active oil found in pudina, has antiseptic and antibacterial properties which provide relief from indigestion. It improves digestive health by stimulating digestive enzymes. Thus, the consumption of Mint leaves is very beneficial for curing indigestion.

2. Keeps bad breath away:

What could be more embarrassing than having a foul smell while talking or breathing? It can directly ruin your impression. We all have experienced it one day or another. Whenever bad breath is ready to affect your impression, mint leaves can come to your aid. Germicidal properties of this herb help in freshening your breath. Owing to its refreshing properties, mint leaves are used in chewing gums, toothpaste, mouth sprays and drinks. Their intake helps in masking bad breath. Drinking mint tea and eating fresh leaves stops the growth of bacteria in the mouth and also cleanses the plaque deposition on the teeth. Mint leaves are a boon for keeping bad breath away.

3. Aids in weight loss:

If you are someone who is planning to shed some kilos, consuming Pudina daily for a certain duration can help you in your weight loss journey. Mint has effective properties that promote digestion. Its consumption facilitates better absorption of nutrients from the food which in turn increases metabolism. The better the metabolism the faster the weight loss.

4. Treats common cold:

Pudina tea is an age-old remedy for treating the common cold and runny nose. Mint is also a prominent ingredient in the majority of vapour-rubs and inhalers.

It clears congestion from the nose, throat, lungs and entire respiratory channel. Reducing congestion provides relief in symptoms of cold and coughing. Apart from being a cold reliever, Mint also soothes irritation caused by chronic coughing.

5. Helpful for Skincare:

Healthy skin gives you a beautiful look. Pudina is an excellent agent for proper skincare. Mint has been used for centuries for treating acne-prone skin.

Pudina is filled with antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties which keep acne and pimples away. It also has a high content of salicylic acid which protects skin from irritation. Mint juice is also a fantastic skin cleanser. Rich antioxidant properties also defend the skin from the free radical activity and rejuvenate it.

6. Enhances Brainpower:

Several researchers have claimed that this aromatic herb is also useful in improving brain functions and its power. Mint leaves are in fact a brain tonic.

Consuming mint leaves or inhaling their smell enhances alertness, memory retention and other cognitive functions of the brain.

7. Treats Stress and Depression:

Mint is a strong adaptogenic herb and also an essential part of aromatherapy. Its reliving smell helps in beating stress and depression. Its calming properties help in increasing the brain’s natural resilience to stress and anxiety.

In accordance with a few researches, mint also has a small content of serotonin in the brain which might be helpful in beating depression. Strong properties of mint are therefore very beneficial for treating certain brain-related disorders.

Summing it up:
Mint is a versatile herb. From being a delicious and cooling culinary item to an effective medicinal herb, mint leaves are a healthy addition to your food. Mint has been used in the preparation of various meals and drinks for ages and even the modern medical system has made mint a prominent component in medicines and skincare products. It is great for digestion, the brain, and the entire body. These all benefits make mint an amazing herb.