Spearmint grows more extensively than its neighbor plant peppermint, but it is used in oil production on a lesser extent, thus, purchasing a spearmint essential oil can be more costly on chose a peppermint alternative; but spearmints are also considered to be stronger than peppermints, so there is indeed a rather huge difference between the two. In herbal medicine, spearmints are used to reduce headaches; it is also used as a diuretic and has an anti-spasmodic effect. It also acts against infections and it is common to see it being applied to bruises and scars. It also shrinks tumors, but on a much lesser extent than the pharmaceuticals out there. Spearmint Essential Oil can be attributed to its properties as an antiseptic, antispasmodic, carminative, cephalic, emenagogue and insecticide, restorative and stimulant substance.
Spearmint essential oil is suitable for children and those who find peppermint too strong to use. Spearmint oil is both cleansing as well as uplifting. It relaxes the body, unlike peppermint that works by rejuvenating the body. Spearmint oil is believed to have originated in Europe. Now, spearmint is cultivated in many places like Asia, Europe, Middle East and the USA. Countries where major production of spearmint oil occurs are USA, England, France, Spain, Russia, India, China, and Germany.
Spearmint is an herb. The leaves and oil are used to make medicine. Spearmint is used for digestive disorders including gas, indigestion, nausea, diarrhea, upper gastrointestinal tract spasms, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), bile duct and gallbladder swelling (inflammation), and gallstones.
It is also used for sore throat, colds, headaches, toothaches, cramps, cancer and inflammation of respiratory tract. Some people use it as a stimulant, germ-killer, local pain-killer, and anti-spasm medication.
Spearmint is applied directly to the skin for swelling inside the mouth, arthritis, local muscle and nerve pain and skin conditions including pruritus and urticaria.
While spearmint is most popularly used as a seasoning for food and beverages, it is also used for its healing benefits, which are similar to those of peppermint. Many people prefer the less intense flavor and scent of spearmint over that of peppermint. Spearmint essential oil comes from the Mentha spicata plant, which has bright green leaves unlike peppermint's dark green.
Benefit & Uses:
Spearmint seems to be safe when taken by mouth in food or medicinal amounts or when applied to the skin.
The antibacterial, anti-fungal and antiviral properties of Essential Oil of Spearmint make it a disinfectant. It can help get rid of both internal and external infections. It is particularly effective in protecting internal wounds and ulcers, like those in the stomach, food pipe, and intestines, from infections. In ancient Greece, it was used to treat infectious diseases like Scabies, Dermatitis, Athlete’s Foot, Syphilis, Gonorrhea and other infectious or transmittable diseases.
Spearmint essential oil is an effective insecticide and keeps away mosquitoes, white ants, ants, flies, and moths. It can also be safely applied on the skin for protection against mosquito bites. Spearmint essential oil is sometimes used in mosquito repellant creams, mats, and fumigants.
The Essential Oil of Spearmint can help treat asthma and congestion due to its decongestant properties. It also relieves fevers, excess flatulence, constipation, sinusitis, acne, gum and teeth problems, migraines, stress and depression. Being far lower in menthol content, it can be safely given to children to relieve their various ailments.
Spearmint was used in the past by Native Americans for digestive troubles and is still used today for the same purpose. This essential oil relieves problems such as indigestion, flatulence, diarrhea and a lack of appetite. Combine one drop of spearmint oil and a little bit of honey with one cup warm water and drink to ease digestive troubles.
It also helps in relaxing the nerves and relieving stress, depression, and anxiety. It is also used in the management of asthma, constipation, sinusitis, acne, and teeth-related problems.