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In Chinese Medicine, Mint (Bo He), is used in many formulas to help ease our digestive system, help recover from rashes quickly, and soothe our throats and coughs. We are so lucky to be able to grow it extensively (sometimes too extensively!) in our gardens here in Calgary, and there are many things that it is good for, so it would be a shame to let it go to waste.
From a western perspective we are able to incorporate it into our diets to help with cellular protection and repair. This is made possible by all the antioxidants that it contains, not to mention the antiviral and antimicrobial properties.
As a herb used in Traditional Chinese Medicine, we say that it works with our Liver and Lung Meridians, and its cool nature releases Wind Heat or Summer Heat. These are pathogenic heats that are trapped in the body and cause fevers, headaches, sore throats, rashes, red eyes, and nasal congestion. It also helps to move the energy of the Liver and helps to reduce irritability and depression. Its aromatic flavour is also helpful to alleviate those digestive woes such as nausea and vomiting, and can help with diarrhea.
By adding Mint to salads, meat marinades, or teas, it helps to neutralise some of the hot properties of food and allows the body to cool from the inside out. No longer is it just a garnish or an ingredient in a Mojito! Drinking one cup of mint tea a day is safe and healthy… so get gardening!