Mint (Pudina (Mentha))

Properties

Relaxation of gastrointestinal muscles, Decongestant action of menthol, Antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects of polyphenols

Dosage

Fresh leaves: 2-3g steeped as tea; Dried powder: 1-2g; Essential oil: 1-2 drops (diluted); Enteric-coated capsules: 0.2-0.4mL.

Classical attributes

• Rasa: Sweet, Pungent
• Virya: ["Cooling"]
• Vipaka: ["Pungent"]

Benefits

• Deepana (appetizer)
• Pachana (digestive)
• Rochana (improves taste)
• Vatanulomana (carminative)

Traditional uses

• Aruchi (loss of appetite)
• Ajirna (indigestion)
• Adhmana (bloating)
• Kasa (cough)
• Shwasa (dyspnea)

Dosha effects

• vata: balancing
• kapha: balancing
• pitta: balancing

Preparation methods

• Tea Infusion: Steep 2-3g of fresh leaves or 1-2 tsp of dried leaves in hot water for 5-10 minutes. Can be consumed 1-2 times daily.
• Powder: Mix 1-2g of dried powder with warm water or honey, taken twice daily.
• Essential Oil: Use 1-2 drops diluted in a carrier oil for topical application or inhalation. For oral use, enteric-coated capsules (0.2-0.4mL) are common.
• Steam Inhalation: Add a few drops of essential oil or fresh leaves to hot water and inhale the steam for respiratory relief.

Contraindications

• GERD patients (peppermint may worsen symptoms due to relaxation of the lower esophageal sphincter).
• Use with caution in young children (especially essential oil ingestion).
• Pregnancy and breastfeeding (consult a professional for concentrated forms).

Side effects

• Heartburn or acid reflux (especially with peppermint oil).
• Allergic contact dermatitis (rare, from topical application).
• Gastrointestinal upset in very high doses.

Interactions

• May affect P450 enzymes, altering metabolism of some drugs.
• May alter absorption of iron supplements; separate dosing by 2 hours.
• Possible additive effects with antacids, PPIs, and anti-spasmodics.

Clinical evidence

Meta-analyses of up to 5 meta-analyses and databases tracking over 20 RCTs show that peppermint oil and mint extracts can offer therapeutic benefits for IBS symptoms, digestive health, respiratory support, and cognitive enhancement. However, individual responses may vary.

Ayurvedic karmas

• Deepana (appetizer)
• Pachana (digestive)
• Rochana (improves taste)
• Vatanulomana (carminative)

Classical clinical indications

• Aruchi (loss of appetite)
• Ajirna (indigestion)
• Adhmana (bloating)
• Kasa (cough)
• Shwasa (dyspnea)

Frequently asked questions