Japanese mint, scientific name mentha arvensis L., is an erect, annual or perennial herbaceous plant, also popularly known as Vick and Brazilian mint. Despite the varied names, the origin of this herb is Japan. With a strong minty flavor and odor, Japanese mint was brought to Brazil by immigrants from Japan and is currently cultivated almost all over the world.

The Benefits of Japanese Mint

Due to its properties, Japanese mint is used in several areas, such as in pharmacy and confectionery, in the cosmetic industry and in folk medicine.

Among the medicinal properties of this herb are the following: anti-dyspeptic, anti-inflammatory, nasal decongestant and anti-flu. Japanese mint leaves can be used fresh or dried, either in the form of tea, tincture or as an inhalant.

In natural medicine, this plant is indicated for the treatment of stomach gases, flatulence, stomach pains and against nausea or vomiting. In addition, its leaves and its essential oil can be used as a nasal cleanser and to relieve respiratory distress.

In the pharmacy and confectionery, Japanese mint or its essential oil is used to give mint odor and flavor to candies and medicines; in the cosmetics industry, the plant is used to provide a refreshing sensation to products such as toothpastes, lotions and shaving creams.

In addition to the benefits mentioned, a pharmacological study of the essential oil of Japanese mint points to its importance in activities against bacteria and fungi and as a bile duct. Virtually all over the world, the use of this herb and its essential oil is indicated to treat cases of cold, cough, bronchitis, fever, chills, inflammation in the mouth and pharynx, pain and infections.

Japanese mint tea

Japanese mint tea can be used to treat a variety of health conditions and its dosage depends on the condition being treated. Check it out below:

For stomach gas, flatulence and stomach pain:

Put twenty Japanese mint leaves in a cup of tea and add boiling water. Cover and let cool. After that, strain and drink between two and three cups of tea a day, preferably iced.

For vomiting and nausea:

The way of preparing the tea is the same, however, the indication is to drink half a cup of tea in small intervals during the time necessary for the cure.

For gastrointestinal poisoning:

It is recommended to drink only one cup of tea when needed.