How Peppermint Works
Peppermint leaves are packed with rosmarinic acid, a type of phenol, and various flavonoids. The essential oil derived from peppermint contains key ingredients like menthol and menthone, which are highly valued for their effectiveness. The quality of peppermint leaves is often judged by their menthol content. Typically, peppermint grown in the United States contains about 70% menthol. Additionally, these leaves are rich in magnesium, vitamins A and C, copper, potassium, inositol, niacin, iron, iodine, sulfur, and silicon. Within the body, peppermint acts against harmful organisms, serves as an antioxidant, and may support respiratory health.
Peppermint & Common Respiratory Ailments
Respiratory issues like allergies can cause congestion in the throat, nose, bronchi, and lungs. Peppermint is beneficial in these cases due to its antihistamine properties and the cooling effect of menthol, making it a useful decongestant. This is why menthol is a common ingredient in inhalers and therapeutic balms.
Peppermint & Asthma
Research published in the July 2010 issue of the “Journal of Ethnopharmacology” highlighted that peppermint oil has anti-congestive, antispasmodic (which helps relax the smooth muscles of the respiratory tract), and expectorant properties. The study found that doses of 100-300 micrograms of peppermint oil could relax the trachea in rats.
Exercise-induced asthma is a condition where physical activity triggers asthma symptoms. Dr. David Kiefer, M.D., a well-known author and advocate for alternative medicine, suggests that peppermint can help reduce irritation and act as a bronchodilator, opening the airways and reducing shortness of breath.
Generally, peppermint is considered safe unless there are specific allergies. However, caution is advised when using essential oils, as large amounts can cause stomach upset. While peppermint is commonly grown in the United States and Europe, not all peppermint supplements are organic. It’s important to choose supplements from natural, organic, and reputable sources.
Other herbs that are beneficial for lung cleansing include osha root, eucalyptus leaf, lungwort leaf, oregano leaf, plantain leaf, lobelia flower, and chaparral.
How to Cleanse Your Lungs Naturally
To naturally cleanse your lungs, consider incorporating herbs like peppermint, osha root, eucalyptus leaf, lungwort leaf, oregano leaf, plantain leaf, lobelia flower, and chaparral into your routine. These herbs can help support respiratory health and clear congestion.
