The first word for Spearmint is “Spear”, probably because its leaves are sharply serrated. The leaves are often consumed as tea after meals to relieve stomach pain, acid reflux, and flatulence.
However, Spearmint differs from peppermint. It is lower in menthone content. It is also milder and is the sweetest tasting.
In terms of physiological effects, Spearmint oil is a powerful antiviral and antibacterial agent. In terms of psychological effects, it can improve alertness, elevate depressed moods and clear the mind.
If you happen to have Spearmint essential oil, take a whiff of it will it feel a familiar smell? Yes, it smells the same as Green Arrow gum. Spearmint is widely used in everyday products, toothpaste, chewing gum, body wash, and more.
In medieval Europe, Spearmint became a representative medicine for oral hygiene, and for good reason indeed: its antibacterial and antiviral properties kill harmful microorganisms in the mouth.
Its anti-mucosal inflammatory properties can improve mouth ulcers and gingivitis, and its fresh, cool taste can remove bad breath or make your breath more attractive, while also stimulating the brain nerves and invigorating the spirit.
A recent study also found that Spearmint essential oil can improve women’s hairiness, rough skin, and ovarian problems caused by high androgens because the level of testosterone (an androgen) in women’s bodies will be reduced after using Spearmint oil.
The main effects of Spearmint:
- Anti-bacterial, anti-fungal, anti-viral powerful
- Anti-inflammatory, anti-mucositis, mucus dissipation
- Analgesic, anti-spasmodic
- Used to treat sore gums and maintain teeth
- Improve indigestion, abdominal cramps, flatulence
- Spices used in cooking
- Psychological healing: stimulates a tired mind, can help open knots and gain a sense of balance; improves alertness, and promotes a calm mind.
It is worth noting that the stimulating properties are much milder than Peppermint, but it should still be used with caution by pregnant women and is not recommended for infants.