Mentha piperata

General information:

Known for its strong aroma which is used to flavor condiments, teas and desserts, Peppermint is listed in The Pharmacopoeia of the United States of America.  
The essential oil of Peppermint has many therapeutic benefits. It has aromatic, stimulant, stomachic and carminative properties and is used for allaying nausea, flatulence and vomiting.

Constituents:

The herb is the source of true Peppermint oil. The oil contains menthol, menthyl acetate, menthone and small amounts of pinene, phellandrene, l-limonene, terpinene, cadinene, cineole, amyl alcohol, acetic acid, isovaleric acid, acetaldehyde, isovaleric aldehyde and a lactone. According to The British Herbal Compendium, Peppermint oil is recommended in dyspepsia, flatulence and intestinal colic.

Benefits:

• Peppermint alleviates stomach spasms and colicky diarrhea.
• The herb is an anti-inflammatory agent that is beneficial in rheumatic joint aches.
• Peppermint is also helpful in treating respiratory disorders. It functions as an expectorant in bronchitis.