Spearmint
Benefits of Spearmint
Take a deep breath? Refreshing...sweet...gentle. Must be Spearmint!
Some people prefer Spearmint to Peppermint and other mints. It is milder than many of its relatives.
It can help with digestion, and may even help reduce the discomfort of an upset stomach. It has an uplifting scent that is perfect for diffusing.
Because Spearmint is milder it can be used topically and is a great option for people with sensitive skin.
So now that we know some of its great benefits lets talk about some specific ways to use it.
Uses of Spearmint
Water - A few drops of Spearmint in your water has great benefits. Try adding about one drop to four ounces of water. Internal use of Spearmint can aid digestion and help comfort upset stomachs. If you prefer something with a little more flavor you can make this Spearmint Lemonade.
Fresh Breath - Add a drop of Spearmint to your toothpaste to help freshen your breath. Not only will it freshen your breath, but it also has cleansing properties to help cleanse your mouth. Do you want another way to freshen your breath? Try this Breath Spray using Spearmint, or this Homemade Spearmint Mouthwash.
Veggie Capsule - If you want the internal benefits of Spearmint without drinking it, you can also put it in a veggie capsule.
Mood Boost - Down in the dumps? Need a natural pick-me-up? Some of the key components in Spearmint are carvone and limonene. They are know for having energizing and uplifting properties. So the next time you are feeling a little blue try diffusing Spearmint, wearing it on diffuser jewelry, or apply a few drops to your wrists or behind your ears.
Focus Power - Spearmint can not only boost your mood, but can help you focus. So the next time you are working on a long task or have a child plugging away at their homework, use Spearmint in the same ways as in the Mood Boost tip. If you want to diffuse it by itself, just put three to four drops in the diffuser.
Motion Sickness - A lot of people like to use Peppermint for motion sickness, but as mentioned above some people find Peppermint too strong. That makes Spearmint a great option. Next time you have a car trip down a winding road, give Spearmint a try.
A Touch of Flavor - Spearmint's refreshing taste can be a great addition to many recipes. Try adding it to your baking, salad, or entrees. One or two drops will be enough.If you need some ideas to get you going try these Butter Mints, this Spearmint Infused Watermelon Smoothie, these Spearmint Chocolate Chip Cookies, or this Black Bean Fudge.
Kitchen Cleaning - Have a stinky garbage disposal? With a little Tangerine and Spearmint you can make these Garbage Disposal Refreshers to help clean and deodorize your garbage disposal.
Better Lung Function During Exercise - A study showed that inhaling Spearmint (or Sweet Orange) improved lung function. You can find information on the study here.
Self Cleansing - How about some soap for yourself? Here is a recipe for some refreshing soap using Spearmint and Rosemary. Rosepmary Spearmint Soap.
I know many people love Spearmint, and I would love to hear how you use it! Leave me a comment telling me your favorite use for Spearmint!
If you'd like to learn more about essential oils, check out these blog posts!
