Pudina is the most traditionally used herb in Ayurveda. It has various health benefits. Ayurvedic physicians recommend pudina leaves and its preparations for indigestion. It has antibacterial and antifibrile properties. Essential oils and menthol are extracted from pudina plant. The oil is an effective treatment for headache, cough, colic and vomiting.
The botanical name of the herb is Mentha arvensis and it belongs to the family Lamiaceae. Whole plant is used for treatment of various diseases.
Pudina Benefits
Pudina has the following health benefits:
- Carminative _ Pudina is a good carminative agent.
- Expectorant — Pudina is used as an expectorant.
- Cold and Headache — The herb is widely used in treatment of cold and cough, headaches, colic, vomiting and prurigo.
- Blood Cleanser — Pudina acts as a good blood cleanser. It is antibacterial and antiseptic.
- Tooth Problems — Pudina is an effective remedy for mouth ulcers, swollen gums and toothaches.
- Insect Bites — Crushed leaves of pudina are used to treat insect bites.
- Dizziness — Fresh pudina leaves are crushed and sniffed for relief from dizziness.
- Arthritis — Fresh leaves should be heated on a low flame. Pound the leaves and apply when still warm on the paining joints and muscles.
- Mouthwash — Soak 2 tbsp of chopped pudina leaves in hot water for 30 minutes and strain. It is ready to use as a mouthwash.
- Flavoring Agent — Pudina is greatly used as a flavoring agent in culinary preparations.
- The infusion and decoction of stems and leaves are used to treat stomachaches, diuresis, dysmenorrhea and fever.
These are some of the benefits of pudina. Pudina oil should not be administered to infants and children. It should also not be used by pregnant and breast feeding women. People with asthma, liver disorders, gallstones and other gall bladder conditions should not use this oil.
