The Health Benefits Of Peppermint

May Fight Bacterial Infections

Right now, there haven't been any published studies regarding the effectiveness of peppermint tea as a bacteria-killing compound. However, multiple studies have shown peppermint oil is capable of killing bacteria. If individuals want to fight bacterial infections, they'll have better results with peppermint oil than tea. There is no data regarding how much tea individuals would need to drink for antibacterial properties to have a measurable effect. Studies have shown peppermint oil can prevent many common bacterial infections from spreading and growing, including salmonella, listeria, and E. coli. The oil is also able to kill bacteria that cause illness in humans like bacteria linked to pneumonia and the bacteria that cause staph infections. Sipping peppermint tea or sucking on peppermints may also help reduce the common bacteria found in the mouth. It's not a replacement for good oral hygiene habits, but it's worth noting if individuals want to freshen up between brushings.

Freshens Breath

Many different types of mint are touted as great choices for those who want to freshen their breath. However, some qualities set peppermint apart from the rest. Peppermint is one of the most popular flavors for mouthwash, toothpaste, and chewing gum. It has the same pleasantly minty smell all mints do, but it also has antibacterial properties that attack the germs and bacteria responsible for plaque, one of the biggest contributors to bad breath. When peppermint prevents plaque from growing, an individual's breath might improve. Another study of participants who'd just had spinal surgery showed those who rinsed the mouth with lemon, tea tree, and peppermint oils experienced a reduction in bad breath when compared to those who didn't. Another study of schoolgirls with a peppermint mouth rinse showed one week of usage led to improved breath when compared to the students who didn't use the rinse. Peppermint compounds can improve breath, but since there hasn't been enough research done on the effect of peppermint tea on breath, individuals are better off sticking to chewing gum and mouthwash.