This Popular Herb Could Improve Your Gut Health and Brain Function

Whether it’s added to salads or included as a garnish on cocktails, mint has long been one of the most common herbs in cooking. Its icy, cool flavor brings a pop to any dish or beverage. But it’s good for more than just taking your food to the next level, it’s also great for your health!

What are the health benefits of mint?

Mint comes in many forms, including peppermint and spearmint, but they all have several of the same incredible health benefits. Are you dealing with bloating, an upset stomach, constipation, or other digestive problems? Research shows that mint can boost gut health and soothed inflamed tissues. The compounds in mint help the muscles in your stomach and intestines relax, making it easier for food to pass through and for the body to absorb nutrients and convert any excess into waste.

On top of that, studies have found that mint can provide some serious benefits to your brain, too. It may improve memory, reduce levels of anxiety and fatigue, and increase blood flow to lower the number of migraines and headaches you’re experiencing. Researchers are still unraveling just how much of a difference mint makes, but the results so far are extremely promising.

How should you consume it?

One of the best elements of mint is how versatile it is. You can add it to alcoholic beverages for an icy kick (and not just in mojitos!), sprinkle it over your salads, include it in pasta sauces, mix it into yummy desserts, and so much more.

If you really want to get those health benefits though, more concentrated options depending on your health concerns could help. The two most common ones are peppermint tea (Buy on Amazon, $3.26) and peppermint oil (Buy on Amazon, $14.95). If you feel an upset stomach coming on, you can sooth it immediately by brewing a pot or applying some oil to the area could do the trick. Just make sure you talk to your doctor if you’re looking to get more medicinal benefits out of mint!