MEXICAN MINT

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Image result for mexican mint

 Scientific name: Plectranthus amboinicus.

Facts: 

  • It is native to Southern and Eastern Africa.
  • The leaves have a unique smell which can be described as a pungent combination of the aroma of thyme, oregano and turpentine. Meanwhile,  the taste of the leaves is best described as similar to oregano but with a sharp mint-like flavour. 


Why Mexican mint is the most demand plant?

- Ideal for flavouring meat and vegetable dishes.
- The ground-up dried leaves can be added to soups, stews and other meals and as a herb.
- Its essential oils can be extracted from the leaves and commonly used in full or powdered form. It can be eaten normally or rubbed topically on the skin.


Health benefits of the Mexican plant

  • Relieves respiratory issues - Chewing the leaves or brew a tea from the leaves. This is due to the compound contained in the herbs can act as a powerful expectorant to eliminate mucus and phlegm from the respiratory tract and also clear out the sinuses. 

  • Skincare- Mexican mint contains an anti-inflammatory compound that can reduce redness and swelling while eliminating itchiness and irritation. Thus, it also can be used to treat bug bites and stings, eczema and psoriasis. 

  • Omega-6 content- The volatile compound that comes from the extraction of the leaves to make essential oils consist of Omega-6 fatty acids which can reduce arthritis by increasing joint regeneration. 
  • Vitamin C and A - The high content of Vitamin C found in the herbs make it important as an immune system booster. Carotenoids and Vitamin A content will help in improving vision by reducing oxidative stress in the eyes and even possibly preventing macular degeneration. 

  • Reduced stress and anxiety - In folk medicine, it has been used as a herbal remedy, particularly in tea form. Especially for those who have high anxiety or chronic stress to induce relaxation, peace of mind and healthy restful sleep. 
  • Enhance diuresis - Mexican mint can get rid of toxins in the body by stimulating urination. By this process, the excess salt, fat and water from the body also can be reduced to keep the kidney and lymphatic system functioning well.
  • Treats fever- Mexican mint is considered to be sudorific which means that it can stimulate sweating. On the other hand, it helps to clear out toxins through the skin and speed up the recovery process. 

  • Irritable bowel syndrome- In folk medicine, Mexican mint was commonly used to settle an upset stomach and relieve irritable bowel syndrome by regulating digestion and soothing stomach inflammation. This can be done by brewing tea from the leaves of this plant since it is the most effective way to take advantage of this health benefit.  However, pregnant and breastfeeding mother are discouraged to use this herb 

Other uses of Mexican mint

  • Since the leaves are strongly flavoured, they are used for stuffings of meats and poultry, beef and lamb. It is used as a substitute for oregano to mask the strong odour and flavour of fish, mutton and goat. 
  • The leaves are used to make fritters in Telugu cuisine and consume occasionally as snacks.
  • Fresh leaves are used to scent laundry and hair. 
  • Grown as an ornamental plant. 


FOR FURTHER INFORMATION, VISIT 
http://www.globinmed.com/index.php?searchword=mexican%20mint&ordering=newest&searchphrase=all&Itemid=123&option=com_search#content.

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