What are the functions and benefits of mint leaves?

Nov 19, 2024 Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Yang Ziqi
Introduction
Under normal circumstances, the effects and functions of mint leaves mainly include refreshing the mind, relieving surface heat conditions, clearing the head and eyes, alleviating indigestion, and regulating liver function and qi circulation. However, Chinese herbal medicines should be used under the guidance of a qualified physician. In daily life, when mint leaves are needed, they should be used appropriately under a doctor's supervision. Excessive use may cause side effects such as dry mouth and allergic reactions.

Generally, the benefits and effects of mint leaves mainly include refreshing the mind, dispelling wind-heat, clearing the head and eyes, relieving indigestion, and promoting liver qi circulation. However, traditional Chinese herbs should be used under the guidance of a qualified healthcare professional. Specific details are as follows:

1. Refreshing the Mind: The menthol in mint leaves has a pungent, aromatic scent that can stimulate the central nervous system, helping to refresh and invigorate the mind. Drinking mint-infused water or inhaling the aroma of mint leaves in moderation when feeling tired or drowsy can effectively relieve fatigue and improve concentration.

2. Dispelling Wind-Heat: Mint leaves are acrid and cool in nature and enter the lung and liver meridians, possessing the effect of dispersing wind-heat. They are commonly used to treat symptoms caused by external wind-heat invasion, such as headache, fever, and sore throat. When combined with herbs like honeysuckle (Lonicera) and forsythia, their wind-heat-dispersing effect is enhanced.

3. Clearing the Head and Eyes: Mint leaves help clear the head and soothe the throat, improving symptoms such as headache, red eyes, and sore throat. They are suitable for conditions involving upward-rising wind-heat causing headache and dizziness.

4. Relieving Indigestion: Mint leaves aid digestion and alleviate gastrointestinal discomfort. They can help relieve bloating, nausea, vomiting, and indigestion. The volatile oils in mint leaves stimulate gastric juice secretion and promote gastrointestinal motility, thereby improving digestive function.

5. Regulating Liver Qi: Mint leaves enter the liver meridian and help regulate liver qi flow. They are effective in treating chest and rib-side distension, irregular menstruation, and other symptoms caused by liver qi stagnation. When used in combination with herbs such as bupleurum and white peony root, their liver-soothing and stagnation-relieving effects are enhanced.

In daily life, when using mint leaves, it is important to do so appropriately under medical supervision. Excessive use may lead to side effects such as dry mouth or allergic reactions.

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