Mint has been enjoyed in teas and has been used to flavor food in the Middle East, India, and Europe. During the Middle Ages, powdered mint leaves were used to whiten teeth. Mint tea is a strong diuretic, and its aroma is used as a mild decongestant for illnesses such as the common cold.
Menthol is the most important constituent of Mint, which renders the herb its pharmacological properties.
It has analgesic and antiseptic activities (Harborne, J.B., 1999, Phytochemical Dictionary, Taylor and Francis Ltd., London).
No adverse effect was reported on the use of the volatile as medicine.
Known for its strong aroma which is used to flavor condiments, teas, and desserts, Peppermint is listed in The Pharmacopoeia of the United States of America.
The essential oil of Peppermint has many therapeutic benefits. It has aromatic, stimulant, stomachic and carminative properties and is used for allaying nausea, flatulence, and vomiting.
The herb is the source of true Peppermint oil. The oil contains menthol, methyl acetate, menthone and small amounts of pinene, phellandrene, l-limonene, terpinene, cadinene, cineole, amyl alcohol, acetic acid, isovaleric acid, acetaldehyde, isovaleric aldehyde and a lactone. According to The British Herbal Compendium, Peppermint oil is recommended for dyspepsia, flatulence and intestinal colic.