Peppermint Tincture

Peppermint Tincture

Peppermint tincture is one of nature’s oldest home remedies for gas, nausea, heartburn, cramping, bloating, flatulence, hiccups, stomachaches, and other digestive problems. It may reduce the symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome. Peppermint leaves may slow the growth of different bacteria in the gut, such as Helicobacter pylori, causing ulcers, and Salmonella enteritidis and Staphylococcus (MRSA). Studies have shown that Peppermint stimulates the gastric lining which can decrease the amount of time food spends in the stomach. It helps to digest food before it passes into the intestines and colon. Peppermint is used to calm a queasy stomach, is good for nausea and vomiting, and can be useful for calming the lower bowel. May be effective in relieving diarrhea and irritable bowel syndrome. It can be effective for those struggling with a loss of appetite, indigestion, colonic muscle spasms and gastric upset.

Peppermint leaf tincture may help support healthy liver function by improving the flow of bile from the liver to the gall bladder aiding in the break down of fats and decreasing “bad cholesterol”. Lowered cholesterol levels help to reduce the work load of the liver, and may provide a boost to liver function.

Peppermint tincture can be effective for the relief of respiratory congestion by opening up the nose, lungs and throat, and may also help with cough. Regular use of the tincture may benefit people with asthma, as it can provide bronchial relaxation and help to relieve breathing problems. Another amazing health benefit of the Peppermint plant extracts are that it contains rosmarinic acid. This antioxidant may help to stop cell damage that is caused by free radicals. It also helps to block the leukotrienes, that trigger inflammation and other allergic symptoms. Rosmarinic acid also helps to stimulate cells called prostacyclins, that help to keep the airway passages of those with asthma open and making it easier to breathe. The menthol in the leaves thins mucus and eliminates phlegm, providing relief from cough and congestion.

Peppermint tincture can also be applied topically such as in face masks, for fighting infections of the skin, rashes, and even bug bites. It may be helpful in addressing various skin issues, such as acne, sunburn, rashes, and irritation. It can be effective in treating oily and greasy skin by balancing the oil production and cleansing the pores. It acts as an astringent, antiseptic, and anti-inflammatory agent that reduces infection and inflammation. Peppermint tincture can tone the skin, minimize pores, reduce swelling, and restore skin elasticity as it contains vitamins A and C. Both are powerful antioxidants that fight inflammation and protect the skin from damage.

Peppermint tincture provides anti-spasmodic effects, which soothe muscles of the body, it is a great remedy for relieving the pain of menstrual cramps.

Peppermint is an excellent source of minerals: calcium, copper, manganese, magnesium, potassium, and iron. Potassium is an important component of cell and body fluids that help control blood pressure and heart rate. It is also rich in many antioxidant vitamins, including vitamin C and E, vitamin A, beta carotene, important B-complex vitamins like folate, vitamin K, B-6 (pyridoxine), and riboflavin.

Peppermint is a stimulant and acts in a powerful manner on the body as a whole. It can restore the body back to the body its natural warmth and glow. It is found to be helpful in cases of sudden fainting or dizziness with extreme coldness and pallor. It can be useful in remedying the symptoms of colds, flus, chills and rheumatism.

According to recent studies, some of the enzymes found in mint leaves can be helpful for those who are fighting cancer. Peppermint contains a considerable amount of a phytonutrient, Perillyl alcohol. This nutrient has been shown to slow and, in some cases, inhibit the growth of pancreatic, mammary, lung, rectum and liver tumors. It has also been shown to protect against free radicals that cause damage to the cells and cancer formation.

Peppermint is a strong and effective mouthwash it is also an effective remedy for bad breath. The leaves are packed with anti-bacterial and anti-inflammatory properties which are great for your oral health. By killing bacteria in the mouth, it may help to prevent tooth decay. In studies, peppermint has actually been more effective in inhibiting the formation of biofilm linked to dental cavities than the mouthwash chemical chlorhexidine. It has also shown positive effects on mouth sores (canker) related to Herpes simplex virus Type 1.

Peppermint liquid extracts can be added to a bath or to a lotion after shower to help with stress and pain and to help you feel energized again. The tincture has also been used in hair and skin care. When used in an oil it can be massaged into the scalp to help remove dandruff. Because of the combination of vitamins, minerals and antioxidants, Peppermint tincture may help to promote hair health and growth.

Since Peppermint leaves purify the blood and have an anti-spasmodic and soothing effect on the muscles of the body, it is helpful in relieving the pain of menstrual cramps. It also aids in relieving anxiety and nervous agitation resulting from PMS as well as general anxiety disorder.

In aromatherapy, Mint extract is used to combat stress and rejuvenate the mind. It helps to relax the body, calm the mind, and reduce the symptoms of stress. It is shown to help release a small amount of serotonin in the brain that also helps to beat depression. When combined, peppermint tincture and peppermint essential oil can be doubly effective in addressing these issues.

Ingredients:  Peppermint Leaf (Mentha piperita) and Certified Grain Alcohol.

Suggested:  Use 6-12 drops in juice or water, or under the tongue or as desired. May be taken 3 times daily. Shake well. Store in cool dark place. Keep out of reach of children.

**It is also recommended to take a few days' break (3-5 days) after two weeks of continual use.

Precautions:  Pregnant and nursing women should not take Peppermint without consulting a physician. Peppermint may aggravate a hiatal hernia.

If you have a history of gallbladder disorders, gallstones or blockage of the bile duct, or those who take heartburn medication, should not take Peppermint without consulting a physician.

Do not exceed dosage (many time the recommended amount)

Peppermint may interfere with absorption of iron.

JOIN OUR HERBAL CLASS on December 14th at 6pm.

We will be making Peppermint Tincture. Class cost is $20. See the "events" page to sign up.