PEPPERMINT PERFECTION ALL YEAR LONG
Hello and welcome back to the blog everyone. It’s that time of year when cooking and baking go into high gear, and the chef in all of us makes a triumphant appearance.
Every season has it own sights, smells and, of course, tastes and flavors. And during the holidays our favorites come to mind, including cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg and always, peppermint, which is one of the most popular and healthy foods in the culinary world.
So, let’s begin with 6 great reasons to pile on the peppermint herbs, extracts and oils this holiday season!
REDUCE HEADACHES
Just a few drops of peppermint oil on the forehead and temples can reduce a headache in as little as 15 minutes. Because the oil improves circulation and relieves muscle tension, it can prevent throbbing for up to an hour. And the menthol in peppermint also can relieve coughs and acts as a decongestant.
RELIEVE NAUSEA
Peppermint can help control breathing and reduce nausea. According to studies, this herb has a numbing effect on stomach muscles. This relaxes the muscles and allows them to break down the fats that can cause stomach distress and nausea.
PREVENT BAD BREATH
Peppermint has always been known as a great ingredient in toothpaste and mouthwash. Its natural oils freshen the breath, cleanse the mouth and reduce cavities. In fact, just one drop of peppermint essential oil on the tongue will keep your oral hygiene fresh all day long.
INCREASE ENERGY
Peppermint has been linked to greater performance, alertness, and motivation in recent studies. Apparently, just the smell of peppermint can perk us up because it acts as a stimulant on the central nervous system. So, if the holidays begin to tire you out, treat yourself to a peppermint anything and jump-start your energy anytime.
RELIEVE PAIN
We know peppermint is a muscle relaxer, yet it’s also a natural painkiller. It can be extremely helpful in aiding an aching back or relieving sore muscles. The natural compounds in peppermint oil have the same effect on the body that they have on muscle tension in the head and neck area and the sinus cavities.
AID DIGESTION
In any form, be it an herb, an oil or a tasty treat, peppermint can reduce the discomfort of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) and other digestive troubles. It decreases the inflammation that causes stomach aches, bloating and gas, and can prove indispensable when we tend to over-indulge during the holiday season.
Yes, peppermint is one of the most popular taste-treats this time of year and certainly one of the healthiest. We can use it in cocoa, pies, cookies, salads, and just about anything else we can think of. By itself, or in a holiday recipe, peppermint is packed with flavor and wonderful health benefits.
So, please enjoy this fabulous natural product this season and all year long. Once again, thank you for joining me everyone and may your holidays be sweet and safe!
Until next time dear friends, stay well, stay in GOOD HEALTH and . . .
TAKE THE COURSE AND TAKE CHARGE!
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