Introduction to Pudina (Mint)
Mentha, also known as Mint in English and Pudina in Hindi, is a kind of flowering plant which has wide-spreading underground and overground stolons. They are erect, square, branched stems. People generally believe that the original place of birth of mint is in various European and Asian countries. But gradually in almost all the places of the globe like America, Africa, and even in different islands, people started cultivating this medicinal plant. Due to the simple and easy way of cultivation and various nutritional and health benefits of pudina, this wonder herb has become immensely popular.
Moreover, mint is a fragrant herb which is widely used in cooking, beverage, and traditional medicine. It is popular among the people due to its flavor, nutritional value, and its easy inclusion in different diets.
In addition, the oil present in the leaves and flowers of mint/pudina is used in ice cream, candy, beverages, toothpaste, mouthwash, etc.
Nutritional Value of Pudina (Per 100g)
- Energy 88 kcal
- Carbohydrate 8.41 g
- Minerals 0.70 g
- Cholesterol 0
- Dietary Fiber 6.8 g
- Protein 4.8 g
- Water 83%
MINERALS
- Calcium 1.99 mg
- Copper 0.240 mg
- Iron 11.87 mg
- Magnesium 63.00 mg
- Manganese 1.118 mg
- Zinc 1.09 mg
- Phosphorus 8.00 mg
- Sodium 30.00 mg
- Potassium 458 mg
VITAMINS
- Vitamin A 2700 mg
- Vitamin C 13.3 mg
- Thiamine B1 0.078 mg
- Riboflavin B2 0.175 mg
- Pyridoxine 0.158 mg
- Niacin 0.948 mg
- Folate 1.05 micro mg
Top 12 Health Benefits of Pudina/Mint
The health benefits of pudina are extensive-from boosting digestion to improving skin health. Here are some of the most well-known medicinal uses:
Rich in Antioxidants
- First and foremost, mint or pudina is rich in antioxidant properties. Hence, it helps in protecting the body from free radicals and boosting the immune system.
Relieves Cold, Cough and Fever
- Additionally, herbal tea using mint leaves is very beneficial for health. Its consumption during fever, bronchitis, cold or cough, and headache proves to be beneficial for health.
Aids Digestion
- Moreover, pudina stimulates digestive enzymes. Thus, it helps in digestion as well.
Erase Bloating and Gas
- Also, it can release blotting and gas and minimize the problem of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS).
Supports Lung Health
- As Pudina contains anti-inflammatory properties, it works well in relieving symptoms of asthma. It improves breathing.
Improves Oral Hygiene
- Furthermore, the health benefits of pudina extend to achieving better oral health as it can remove bad breath and kill bacteria in the mouth.
Erase Muscle Pain
- Mint oil is useful for curing rheumatic pain and weakness in muscles.
Uplift Mental Health
- Most importantly, it is also beneficial for upliftment of mental health. Properties like carvone available in pudina or mint remove fatigue and stress of body and mind.
Promotes Heart Health
- In terms of heart health, potassium available in pudina leaves helps in regulating blood pressure.
Enhance Skin and Hair Health
- Equally important, mint is excellent for skin and hair as it is abundant in antibacterial properties. It helps to treat acne. Also soothes itchy skin and irritation on the scalp.
Reduces Food Cravings
- Interestingly, pudina also helps to curb food cravings, making it beneficial for weight management.
Boost Metabolism
- Most importantly, this herb can boost metabolism. It is low in calories.
Traditional and Household Uses of Mint
To conclude, in various ancient medical texts, across different traditional healing systems like Ayurveda, Yunani, Greek medicine etc., the health benefits of pudina or mint have been highly recognized. ‘Menthol’ found in leaves of mint and its tree trunk became a great source for curing cancer during those days. Spreading mint or pudina leaves on the floor or mats in our homes, we can keep insects, flies, ants, and even mice and rats away from that area.
