Peppermint has been grown and refined as a natural aid to digestion for thousands of years. We asked the experts at Greenliving Pharma to explain why.
What causes trapped wind and what is the best way to deal with it?
Trapped wind is completely normal and is caused by unknowingly swallowing air when eating and drinking.
Trapped wind is a common cause of bloating and pain in the abdominal area which occurs when air is swallowed while eating or drinking or consuming carbonated drinks, it is completely normal and affects most people. Peppermint can be effective in eliminating digestive discomfort due to its soothing and cooling properties. You could also try to include more fibre in your diet. Fibre contains good bacteria which assists with breaking down food.
What are the best ways to deal with acid reflux?
Acid reflux occurs when stomach acid travels up to the throat and chest, which can be very uncomfortable and can cause a sour taste in your mouth and a burning sensation in the chest. Acid reflux can be managed by eating little and often to allow time for food to fully digest. A common cause of acid reflux is stress, so it may help if you find ways to relax and unwind.
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What are the best ways to deal with bloating?
Feeling bloated is usually due to gas building up in the digestive system causing the abdomen to look/feel swollen, which can sometimes be painful and uncomfortable. You could ease stomach pain and bloating with a simple self-massage in circular motions, starting on one side of your abdomen to the pelvic bone. Relaxing can also help to reduce bloating; you could try having a warm bath.
What are the best ways to deal with heartburn?
If you have a pain in your stomach or chest after eating it is likely that you suffer from heartburn; it is very common and affects most people at one time or another. Try to avoid eating later in the evening before you go to bed. Consider drinking peppermint tea before or after a meal as a soothing caffeine free hot drink.
What are FODMAP foods and why should we avoid them?
FODMAPs are fermentable carbohydrates which are poorly digested in the human digestive system such as dried fruits, cheese, legumes and onions. Due to the short chains of sugars within FODMAP foods, they can cause digestive discomfort such as bloating and diarrhoea in people that are sensitive to them. This can be managed by a low-FODMAP diet that avoids or limits foods high in FODMAP carbs.
What conditions can peppermint be used for?
Peppermint has been praised for a variety of health benefits over the years and supporting the body’s immune system. The immune system is responsible for defending your body against infections and viruses such as colds and the flu. Peppermint oil could also help to support the well function of the digestive system and may ease conditions such as indigestion and flatulence which can become very uncomfortable from the build-up of gas.
How is peppermint prepared for use?
The peppermint oil used in Colomint Peppermint Oil Capsules is taken from the peppermint plant, Mentha piperita. The harvested peppermint leaves are then pressed and distilled to remove moisture and impurities. Raw peppermint oil is combined with distilled peppermint oil to create the perfect natural balance, which is then filtered and prepared for packaging.
In what forms can peppermint be used?
Peppermint can be used as an essential oil in aromatherapy or applied to the skin and used for massaging. It can also be used as an extract to add flavour to food or taken in a capsule as a dietary supplement. It can be used in chest rubs and creams which can help to relieve colds. It can come in the form of dry or fresh leaves which can be used in food or tea.
What are the health benefits of peppermint?
Peppermint may relieve digestive discomfort, indigestion and flatulence, as well as providing freshness for bad breath due to its antibacterial properties which help to kill germs that cause an odour in your mouth. Peppermint tea is a great alternative for a bedtime drink as it’s naturally caffeine-free.
What are the other uses of peppermint?
The peppermint herb was originally cultivated for cookery, flavouring and essential oils. Its unique scent and flavour has widened its versatility ranging from teas, topical oils, perfumes, mouth washes, toothpastes and more. Peppermint oil also has anti-fungal and antibacterial properties which would make excellent natural cleaning products for your home. For a refreshing calming self-care routine, add a few drops of this essential oil to a warm bath.
Greenliving Pharma are committed to producing ethical healthcare products using natural ingredients to provide maximum nutritional support for you and your family. We believe that by observing the human body’s needs, we can develop quality food supplements and healthcare solutions to support your wellbeing and promote a healthy balanced lifestyle from the inside.
