• Mint

    From digimaus@618:618/1 to All on Sat Jan 28 01:10:09 2023
    [ I love mint in its many forms... -- SD]

    ===
    From: https://tinyurl.com/5n6u3yhe (theepochtimes.com)

    Cooking for Healing-The Many Medicinal Properties of Mint

    Dr. Sina McCullough
    Jan 26 2023

    Herbs and spices were used by ancient cultures to heal the body, mind, and
    spirit. While the western world has largely replaced these natural
    remedies with pharmaceuticals, roughly [61]80 percent of people worldwide
    still use traditional or ancient medicine. This is not surprising
    considering that [62]more than 80 percent of pharmaceuticals are derived
    or developed from natural products, including plants. In this series, we
    will explore the [63]healing power of herbs and spices while learning how
    to incorporate these ancient remedies into our daily diet.

    Mint (Mentha) is widely used for its culinary, medicinal, and
    aromatherapeutic properties. It represents a group of perennial herbs that
    includes [64]18 species and 11 hybrids. The most commonly known are
    peppermint, spearmint, and wild mint.

    Today, mint is primarily known for its refreshing taste and aroma.
    However, in ancient times, it was recognized for its numerous health
    benefits.

    Thousands of years ago, mint was used in [65]ancient Egypt, Greece, and
    Rome to [66]treat indigestion and [67]soothe the stomach. Peppermint
    leaves have been found in Egyptian pyramids dating back to 1,000 B.C.

    In the Middle Ages, peppermint was used to polish teeth and to keep rats
    and mice out of stores. By the 18th century, in Western Europe, peppermint
    was used for nausea, morning sickness, vomiting, menstrual disorders, and
    respiratory infections. Mint was listed in the London Pharmacopoeia in
    1721 as a remedy for colds, headaches, sores, and venereal disease.

    Mint was also acknowledged for its ability to interact with the central
    nervous system in traditional medicine. For example, in South Africa, the
    dried leaves were burned and the smoke inhaled as a [68]treatment for
    mental illness. In Mediterranean countries, mint was used to treat
    neuralgia (nerve pain), as well as an anticonvulsant and sedative.

    Recently, scientists have confirmed the many healing properties of mint
    through [69]numerous studies demonstrating its effectiveness in regulating
    the nervous system.

    Modern Science Catches up to Ancient Wisdom

    While the healing power of mint has been harnessed among ancient cultures
    for thousands of years, modern medicine has been slow to recognize its
    benefits. However, the perception of mint is changing as scientists have
    begun validating the wisdom of the ancients through studies that
    demonstrate numerous healing abilities, such as:

    Fights cancer: Peppermint inhibited the growth of colon cancer cells,
    according to a [70]study published in the Journal of the Science of Food
    and Agriculture. Peppermint may also inhibit prostate cancer growth.
    According to [71]preclinical research, peppermint contains menthol, which
    was reported to induce prostate cancer cell death.

    Reverses diabetes: Mint is a "promising [72]treatment" for diabetes,
    according to a [73]study published in 2017. Mint was found to decrease
    fasting blood sugar, total cholesterol, triglycerides, and low-density
    lipoprotein-cholesterol. "These effects were comparable with the effects
    of [the] standard antidiabetic drug (glibenclamide)," according to the
    researchers.

    Alleviates pain from osteoarthritis: Combining peppermint with rosemary
    essential oil reduced pain from osteoarthritis by increasing antioxidant
    capacity and improving the integrity of the structure of the knee joint in
    rats, according to a [74]study published in 2021.

    Improves memory and cognitive ability: Peppermint aroma can enhance memory
    and increase alertness, according to a [75]study published in the
    International Journal of Neuroscience. A second [76]study confirmed that
    peppermint, whether exposed orally or through aroma, positively affected
    cognition and mood.

    "Treats" Alzheimer's disease: Mint extracts protect nerve cells and can be
    used as "possible sources of treatments in managing AD," according to a
    [77]review article published in the journal Antioxidants in 2020. For
    example, mint extract reportedly protects against age-induced stress and
    neurodegeneration and improves memory and cognitive ability.

    Diminishes skin aging: Peppermint peel skin treatment was effective in
    treating signs of skin aging, including discoloration, wrinkles, and skin
    inelasticity, according to a [78]study published in the Journal of
    Biological Regulators and Homeostatic Agents.

    Relieves allergies: Peppermint may relieve symptoms of allergic rhinitis,
    according to a 2001 [79]study. Peppermint inhibited histamine release from
    rat mast cells. Nasal symptoms, including sneezing and nasal rubbing, were
    also inhibited. Consequently, peppermint extract "may be clinically
    effective in alleviating the nasal symptoms of allergic rhinitis,"
    according to the researchers.

    Diminishes shingles-associated pain: A 2002 [80]case study reported that
    applying peppermint oil directly to the skin resulted in an "almost
    immediate improvement" in pain caused by shingles. Pain relief persisted
    4-6 hours after application. Furthermore, peppermint continued to exert a
    "strong analgesic effect on neuropathic pain" during the two months of
    follow-up monitoring.

    Improves sleep: Aromatherapy with peppermint essential oil reportedly
    improved sleep quality in [81]cardiac and [82]cancer patients.

    Promotes alertness: The smell of peppermint led to increased alertness
    among drivers, as well as decreased frustration, fatigue, and anxiety,
    according to a [83]study published in the North American Journal of
    Psychology.

    Antifungal: The [84]most common human fungal pathogen is Candida albicans.
    It is normally present in small amounts in the mouth, skin, and
    gastrointestinal tract. When out of balance, it can result in painful
    mucosal infections such as vaginal yeast infections and oral thrush.
    Peppermint showed strong antifungal action against Candida albicans,
    according to a 2021 [85]article in Mini-Reviews in Medicinal Chemistry.

    Soothes irritable bowel syndrome (IBS): Enteric-coated peppermint oil
    capsules were reported as safe and effective in the treatment of irritable
    bowel syndrome, according to a [86]study in the Journal of
    Gastroenterology. 79 percent of adult patients who consumed the capsules
    three to four times daily, 15-30 minutes before meals for one month
    reported an alleviation of the severity of abdominal pain, 56 percent were
    entirely pain-free and 83 percent reported less abdominal distension.

    The healing effect of enteric-coated peppermint oil extends to children,
    as well as adults. Seventy-five percent of children receiving peppermint
    oil for two weeks reported reduced severity of pain associated with IBS,
    according to a [87]study in the Journal of Pediatrics. The researchers
    concluded, "Peppermint oil may be used as a therapeutic agent during the
    symptomatic phase of IBS."

    Mint may be effective, in part, in relieving symptoms of IBS by relaxing
    the muscles of the gastrointestinal tract. According to a [88]study in
    Gastroenterology, researchers concluded that peppermint oil had a relaxing
    effect on the smooth muscles of the gastrointestinal tract of rabbits and
    guinea pigs due to reducing calcium influx.

    Relieves tension headache: Local topical application with peppermint oil
    is effective in treating tension-type headaches, the most common form of
    headache. Peppermint oil is as effective at relieving tension headache as
    [89]acetylsalicylic acid (aspirin) or [90]paracetamol (acetaminophen).

    Relieves nausea: A 2016 [91]study concluded that "peppermint oil
    inhalation is a viable first-line treatment for nausea in postoperative
    cardiac surgery patients." Post-surgery, 34 patients experienced nausea
    with an average nausea rating of 3.29 on a scale of 0 to five, with 5
    being the greatest nausea. Two minutes after inhaling peppermint oil, the
    average nausea rating significantly dropped to 1.44.

    Likewise, a 2021 [92]study concurred that peppermint essential oil is "an
    effective independent or complementary modality for relief" of nausea and
    vomiting in hospitalized patients when inhaled using aromatherapy.

    Reduces anxiety: Peppermint has been shown to reduce anxiety. For
    instance, a 2022 [93]study concluded that peppermint essential oil
    inhalation significantly reduced anxiety in patients with acute coronary
    syndrome.

    Relieves coughing: A 2013 [94]study, reported that patients with chronic
    cough benefited from inhaling menthol, an active component of mint.
    Compared to the placebo, patient's cough thresholds were significantly
    higher following inhalation of nebulized menthol.

    How to Add Mint to Your Diet

    The whole mint plant is edible, including the stems, leaves, and flowers,
    and can be used in culinary and medicinal applications. Mint can also be
    consumed as an essential oil.

    How to procure mint

    Mint can be grown in your yard or indoors. The plant needs a good amount
    of sun, plenty of water, and space to grow. Alternatively, fresh mint can
    often be purchased at a local farmers market or grocery store. Dried mint
    can also be purchased online. Only consume mint that is organically or
    regeneratively grown.

    Simple ways to incorporate mint into your diet

    * Herbal tea: Boil water, reduce heat to simmer, add 5-10 mint leaves
    and stems, cover, and steep for 10 minutes.
    * Smoothies: Add a few fresh mint leaves or a drop of essential
    peppermint oil to your favorite smoothie or drink-pairs nicely with
    lemonade (see recipe below).
    * Soups: Add a few mint leaves to soup while cooking. Cream-based soups,
    such as pea soup, are ideal.
    * Salads: Toss a few mint leaves on your salad to enhance the flavor.
    Mint pairs well with cucumber and pomegranate.
    * Dressing: Grind fresh or dried mint with a pinch of salt in a mortar
    and pestle and add to an olive oil and vinegar dressing.
    * Desserts: Mint pairs well with chocolate, such as peppermint bark,
    peppermint fudge brownies, or chocolate peppermint ice cream.

    For a refreshing drink on a hot summer day, try mint lemonade!

    Mint lemonade

    Yields 8 glasses

    Ingredients:

    1-1/2 cups freshly squeezed lemon juice (~10 large organic lemons)

    1/2 teaspoon lemon zest

    5 cups cold filtered water

    1 cup lukewarm filtered water

    1/2 cup raw, unfiltered local organic honey

    1 cup organic mint leaves, loosely packed

    2 ice cubes

    Instructions:

    * Juice lemons and add to a glass pitcher along with 5 cups cold water.
    * In a high-powered blender, combine 1 cup lukewarm water, lemon zest,
    honey, and mint leaves. Blend until thoroughly combined. Add to glass
    pitcher and stir until combined.
    * Add ice to the pitcher. Garnish each glass with a sprig of fresh mint.
    Serve immediately or store covered in the refrigerator for up to 3
    days.

    Please do not try this recipe if you are allergic or sensitive to any of
    the ingredients.

    Precautions and Possible Interactions

    Pregnant or breastfeeding women should consult their healthcare provider
    before consuming mint. Peppermint may interact with some prescription
    drugs, such as cyclosporine, acid-reducing medications, ulcer medications,
    calcium channel blockers, and other drugs used for hypertension or high
    blood pressure. People with a hiatal hernia, gastroesophageal reflux
    disease, diarrhea, or a condition where the stomach does not produce
    enough acid should consult with a healthcare provider before consuming
    mint. Peppermint oil is [95]contraindicated in children under two years of
    age.

    Links:
    61. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3560124/
    62. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3619623/
    63. https://www.theepochtimes.com/t-healing
    64. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7402171/
    65. https://www.researchgate.net/publication/321979135_Essential_oil_of_peppermint_ Mentha_piperita_L_from_fields_in_Eastern_Slovakia
    66. https://www.mdpi.com/2076-3921/9/7/631/htm
    67. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7402171/
    68. https://www.mdpi.com/2076-3921/9/7/631/htm
    69. https://www.mdpi.com/2076-3921/9/7/631/htm
    70. https://www.researchgate.net/publication/50937544_Anti-tumorigenic_activity_of_ five_culinary_and_medicinal_herbs_grown_under_greenhouse_conditions_and_their_c ombination_effects
    71. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/18955132/
    72. https://www.theepochtimes.com/t-treatment
    73. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5963648/
    74. https://bmccomplementmedtherapies.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/s12906-021 -03236-y
    75. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/18041606/
    76. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/20589925/
    77. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32709074/
    78. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32425029/
    79. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/11201253/
    80. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12048423/
    81. https://sleep.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/s41606-020-00047-x
    82. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7132346/
    83. https://www.researchgate.net/publication/281526859_Effects_of_peppermint_and_ci nnamon_odor_administration_on_simulated_driving_alertness_mood_and_workload
    84. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/21538235/
    85. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32600229/
    86. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/9430014/
    87. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/11148527/
    88. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/1646142/
    89. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27106030/
    90. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/8805113/
    91. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27333231/
    92. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32985338/
    93. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35007899/
    94. https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0954611112004283
    95. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7163989/
    ===

    - Sean
    ... "Thanks for calling and not reversing the charges."
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    * Origin: Outpost BBS * Johnson City, TN (618:618/1)
  • From Jas Hud@618:200/44 to digimaus on Sat Jan 28 13:26:23 2023
    To: digimaus
    Re: Mint
    By: digimaus to All on Sat Jan 28 2023 01:10 am

    From Newsgroup: Micronet.MIN_CHAT

    [ I love mint in its many forms... -- SD]


    I have a mint garden in the front of the house for the woman.
    What i didn't know is that mint will mate with other types of mint,and
    almost all of the time the results are not idea. So i had chocolate mint, apple mint, citrus mint, and catnip and they blended together.

    They're thriving, but only the spearment kept its diversity.
    the catnip mutated and the cats wont go near it.

    The funny thing is the woman wanted mint for making tea. so i have these little purple bushes in the front and they were done blooming. she made TEA out of those leaves. i'm surprised she didn't get a sore throat.
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