Mentha × piperita in depth: A systematic examination of peppermint’s pharmacological properties and therapeutic applications
Julia Wójcik
2026-03-18
4 min. read
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This document provides an exhaustive exploration of the botanical, biochemical, and clinical dimensions of *Mentha × piperita*, with an emphasis on its role in evidence-based medicine, herbal therapeutics, and industrial applications of its extracts. The discussion is grounded in contemporary research and meta-analyses to ensure a rigorous and authoritative treatment of the subject.
The peppermint
Peppermint is one of the most well-known herbs, and even ancient medicine appreciated its healing effects on digestion, but it's not just because peppermint has gained popularity that we love its refreshing scent and fresh taste.
The properties of mint
The herbal raw material is peppermint leaves and stems. They contain, among other things, herbs, flavonoids, phytosterols, as well as vitamins and minerals. However, the most important substance in pepper mint is mint oil. It is to this plant that this plant owes its taste and smell, for which it is so valued. The main ingredients of mint oil are menthol and menton.
It's the peppermint effect
It works primarily by irritating the muscles of the digestive system, thus relieving many gastrointestinal disorders. Its relaxation increases the secretion of digestible juices, which improves digestion and restores normal peristalsis of the intestines.
What's the use of peppermint?
Peppermint is mainly associated with digestive disorders. I bet at least once, when you were unwell, someone offered you a cup of warm peppermint juice. The characteristic aroma of this plant helps with nausea, and the juice from its leaves supports digestion. That's why it's an ingredient in so many teas and drops of indigestion.
Using mint in the kitchen
The use of mint is not limited to stews only. Mint is an ingredient in lemons and beverages. Peppermint combines well with chocolate and coffee, which is why it is added to desserts as a refreshing accent. A very popular combination is mint with strawberries or peas. Its leaves are beautifully presented, so at the same time you can decorate ice cream or cake with them. Fresh mint flavor is well composed of course!
Other uses of peppermint (e.g. in cosmetics)
Peppermint, or more specifically, essential oil, is also an ingredient in cosmetics. Many shampoos and soaps contain the addition of mint because it gives them a pleasant fresh scent.
The peppermint is a contraindication
Mint should be used with caution during pregnancy. The effects of this herb on the fetus are not well known, so it is better to be careful. Mint oil and the cosmetics that contain it should not be used on damaged or sensitive skin. It is not recommended to use such things in children under 2 years of age as mint oil can irritate the skin of the baby.
He's doing the mint
It is a perennial plant, so we can enjoy it for more than one season. It is worth knowing that part of its bark is fertile. Instead of growing upwards it stays on the ground and spreads to the sides, looking for opportunities to leave more roots. It's better to take this into account when you plan to plant a mint in the garden. However, mint is most often bought in donkeys and overgrown in the ground. There's nothing to prevent it from growing from seeds.