Peppermint is used as an essential oil in the manufacturing of many confectionaries and is widely used for its medicinal properties. Peppermint oil is also used in chewing gum, toothpastes, and mouthwashes.
The best source of peppermint oil comes from a plant called Mentha x piperita, which has small purple or white flowers and downy leaves. This plant, found in Europe and Asia, belongs to the mint family and generally is used as a flavoring agent. It thrives in moist, shaded locations.
The benefits of peppermint oil are numerous: it is used for the treatment of asthma, colic, exhaustion, fever, and flatulence; it is used in aromatherapy, can ease headaches, nausea, scabies, sinusitis, vertigo, and digestive disturbances.
China is one of the most prominent suppliers and exporters of peppermint oil, and Japan, Korea, and India also contribute to the market.
© Newsmax. All rights reserved.