Peppermint (scientific name: Mentha arvensis L. or Mentha haplocalyx, Lamiaceae family) is a fragrant herb commonly used in traditional medicine and cuisine. Both peppermint leaves and essential oil are widely used to support digestion, cool the body, and provide antibacterial effects.

Botanical Description:
Stem has square cross-section, light, spongy, 20-40 cm long, 0.15-0.30 cm diameter. Stem is segmented with 3-7 cm internodes, purple-brown or gray-green in color, hairy or nearly hairless. Cross-section is white, older stems sometimes hollow. Leaves grow oppositely, with 0.5-1.5 cm petioles, lanceolate blades 3-7 cm long, 1.5-3 cm wide. Leaf tips are pointed or slightly blunt, with serrated edges. Both leaf surfaces have varying hair density. Dried leaves are brittle. Flowers grow in leaf axils. The herb has a pleasant aroma, mildly spicy taste followed by cooling sensation.

Below are some key benefits:

1. Digestive Support
• Helps reduce bloating, indigestion, and nausea
• Stimulates digestive secretions and increases appetite

2. Cold Relief and Fever Reduction
• Commonly used in remedies for colds, headaches, and mild fever
• Promotes sweating to help lower body temperature

3. Antibacterial and Anti-inflammatory
• Peppermint oil contains menthol with antibacterial properties, soothing sore throat, rhinitis, and sinusitis
• Often used as tea, steam inhalation, or mouthwash

4. Pain Relief and Relaxation
• Peppermint oil helps relieve headaches, muscle pain, and mild abdominal pain when applied topically
• Has calming effects on the nervous system, promoting relaxation

5. Cooling and Deodorizing
• Has cooling properties, often used as spice or ingredient in deodorizing products
• Acts as mouth freshener and disinfectant

Contraindications & Precautions:
• Do not apply undiluted peppermint oil directly to skin or consume in high doses
• Not recommended for children under 2 years old
• People with stomach conditions (acid reflux) should use peppermint cautiously