Mint, (genus Mentha), genus of 25 species of fragrant herbs of the mint family (Lamiaceae). Native to Eurasia, North America, southern Africa, and Australia, mints are widely distributed throughout the temperate areas of the world and have naturalized in many places. A number of species, particularly peppermint and spearmint, are used as flavourings for foods (including candy and gum) and for liqueur and dentifrices.
The essential oils of mints are used as scents in perfumery. Some species are commonly used in herbal medicine.
PROPERTIES
Mint leaves are packed with antioxidants and phytonutrients, and contains vitamin A, vitamin C, and B-complex, phosphorous, calcium, and has anti-bacterial properties
It is one of the rich sources of iron, potassium, and manganese which improves haemoglobin levels and promotes brain function
Mint leaves are low in calories and contain a minimal amount of protein and fat so you can add mint leaves in your weight loss diet program easily.
CHEMICAL COMPOSITION:
Among monoterpenes, menthol is the major constituent (35–60%), followed by menthone (2–44%), methyl acetate (0.7–23%), 1,8-cineole (eucalyptol) (1–13%),
menthofuran (0.3–14%), isomenthone (2–5%), neomenthol (3–4%), and limonene (0.1–6%), whereas β-caryophyllene is the main sesquiterpene (1.6–1.8%)
BENEFITS:
Treat Indigestion.
Relieve Irritable Bowel Syndrome.
Improve Respiratory Complaints.
Oral Help in Breastfeeding Pain.
Care.
Improve Brain Power.
Boosts Immunity.
Beats Stress & Depression.