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As we approach the season of candy canes and peppermints, it’s a perfect time to pay homage to the medicinal herb that gives these winter treats their flavor: peppermint.

Far from just a flavoring for candies, the therapeutic effects of fresh peppermint leaves and peppermint essential oil have been known since ancient times, and its aromatic aroma has come to symbolize hospitality in many cultures. According to GreenMedInfo:

“Dried peppermint leaves have even been found in several Egyptian pyramids carbon dating back to 1,000 BC.”

Today modern research has continued to prove what these ancient cultures already know, which is that peppermint is one of nature’s most valuable herbal remedies.

21 Health Benefits of Peppermint

Why might you want to add peppermint to your natural medicine chest? Here are 21 valuable uses for this therapeutic plant.

1. Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)

Peppermint oil capsules have been described as ‘the drug of first choice’ in IBS patients, as it safely helps alleviate symptoms and improve quality of life. Research has shown that it is effective in children and adults alike, with one study showing a 50 percent reduction in “total irritable bowel syndrome score” among 75 percent of patients who tried it.

2. Colonic Spasm and Gas

Peppermint oil is an effective alternative to drugs like Buscopan for reducing colonic spasms. It may also relax the muscles of your intestines, allowing gas to pass and easing abdominal pain. Try peppermint oil or leaves added to tea for gas relief.