Consult Top Doctors | Buy Medicines

1st Chat FREE
Install
+91 92570 44159

Mint Benefits and Uses

Reviewed by medical experts · For informational purposes only

Mint Benefits and Uses

Introductory summary

Mint known as Pudina or Putiha in Ayurveda refers to Mentha species or its crystalline extract Peppermint Satva. It possesses Pungent and Bitter tastes with Sharp Light and Unctuous qualities. Despite its characteristic cooling sensation on the tongue it has a Hot potency and Pungent post digestive effect which allows it to pacify Kapha and Vata doshas. It is highly valued as a digestive stimulant or Dipana and mouth cleanser or Mukhasodhana removing bad breath and foul odors. Therapeutically Mint is effective for relieving abdominal colic indigestion and toothache due to its pain relieving action known as Sulaprasamana. Additionally it treats vomiting bloating and worm infestations acting as a carminative and anti parasitic agent.

Mint

Mint, known in Ayurveda as Pudina (referring to Mentha viridis) or processed as Peppermint-Satva (Menthol from Mentha species), is an aromatic herb widely used for its cooling sensation and digestive properties. While the fresh herb is a common culinary ingredient, Ayurveda also utilizes its concentrated crystalline extract, known as Satva, for medicinal purposes. It is highly valued for its ability to clear the mouth, stimulate digestion, and relieve pain.

1. Name of the Herb

  • Common Name: Mint, Peppermint, Pipermint.
  • Scientific Name: Mentha viridis Linn. (Pudina) / Mentha sps. (Source of Peppermint-Satva).
  • Sanskrit/Ayurvedic Names: Pudina, Peppermint-Satva (Menthol).

2. Brief Description

Mint is an aromatic herb belonging to the Lamiaceae family. In Ayurveda, the "Aerial Part" of Mentha viridis is recognized as Pudina. Additionally, Peppermint-Satva (Menthol) is a natural crystalline substance obtained from various Mentha species. It appears as colourless crystals or powder with a pleasant, characteristic peppermint odor. It produces a warm and aromatic taste followed by a distinct cool sensation. It is pharmacologically classified as a digestive stimulant and pain reliever.

3. Source / Part Used

  • Plant Source: Herbal / Plant-based.
  • Part Used:
    • Aerial Part (Leaves/Stem) - for Pudina.
    • Satva (Extract/Menthol) - Natural laevo-rotatory menthol obtained from the volatile oil of Mentha species.

4. Ayurvedic Properties

According to the Ayurvedic Pharmacopoeia of India (Vol. 6), the properties of Peppermint-Satva (Menthol) are:

  • Rasa (Taste): Tikta (Bitter) and Kaṭu (Pungent).
  • Guna (Qualities): Tīkṣṇa (Sharp), Snigdha (Unctuous), Laghu (Light), and Viśada (Clear/Non-slimy).
  • Virya (Potency): Uṣṇa (Hot). (Note: Despite its cooling sensation on touch/taste, its metabolic potency is classified as Hot).
  • Vipaka (Post-digestive effect): Kaṭu (Pungent).
  • Dosha Effect: Kaphahara (Pacifies Kapha dosha).

5. Key Benefits

  • Cleanses the Mouth: Acts as Mukha-sodhana, removing bad breath and refreshing the oral cavity.
  • Relieves Pain: It acts as Śūlapraśamana, useful in relieving colic and local pain.
  • Stimulates Digestion: Acts as Dīpana (appetizer) and Pācana (digestive), aiding in the breakdown of food.
  • Combats Bad Odor: Possesses Pūtihara properties, helping to remove foul smells (anti-putrefactive).
  • Reduces Kapha: clears congestion and mucus due to its sharp and hot properties.

6. Uses / Indications

Mint (specifically Peppermint-Satva) is indicated in Ayurveda for:

  • Digestive Disorders: Used for Ajīrṇa (Indigestion) and abdominal pain.
  • Oral Hygiene: Used for mouth cleansing and removing bad breath.
  • Pain Relief: Applied or taken to relieve Śūla (Colicky Pain).
  • Respiratory & Kapha Conditions: Useful in conditions involving excess Kapha (mucus/congestion).

7. How It Works

  • Digestive Stimulation: Its Tīkṣṇa (Sharp) and Uṣṇa (Hot) nature stimulates the digestive fire (Agni), helping to digest toxins (Ama) and improve appetite.
  • Sensory Stimulation: The initial cool sensation followed by a warm aromatic taste stimulates the senses, clearing the mouth (Mukha-sodhana) and masking bad odors (Pūtihara).
  • Pain Modulation: It acts on nerve endings to provide relief from local pain (Śūlapraśamana).

8. Dosage

  • Peppermint-Satva (Crystals): The dosage is typically very small due to its concentrated nature.
    • Note: Specific quantitative dosage for the Satva is not explicitly listed in the provided snippet, but similar potent extracts (like Thymol) are used in doses of 25-125 mg. Always consult a physician.
  • Pudina (Whole Herb): Used as fresh juice or paste in diet and chutneys.

9. Safety Information

  • Peppermint-Satva is a concentrated extract and should be used with caution.
  • Generally considered safe when used in appropriate culinary or therapeutic doses.

10. Side Effects

  • Due to its Uṣṇa (Hot) and Tīkṣṇa (Sharp) potency, excessive intake of the extract (Menthol) might cause burning sensation or irritation in sensitive individuals.

11. Precautions

  • Pregnancy & Breastfeeding: Consult an Ayurvedic physician before using concentrated extracts like Satva.
  • Dosage: Do not exceed the recommended dose of the concentrated crystals.

12. Storage Instructions

  • Store Peppermint-Satva in a well-closed container.
  • Keep in a cool place to prevent it from melting or evaporating (subliming).

13. References


14. FAQs

 Q. Can it be taken daily?

Fresh Mint leaves (Pudina) can be taken daily in food. Peppermint-Satva (Menthol) is a medicine and should be used as needed for specific conditions like indigestion or pain.

 Q. When should it be taken?

It is often used after meals to aid digestion and freshen breath.

 Q. Can it be taken with milk/water?

Yes, it is often mixed with suitable vehicles. Mantha (churned drinks) containing aromatic spices are common in Ayurveda.

TagsMint

Consult a Doctor

Related Diseases

Related reading