Introduction
Mentha spicata L. of Labiateae family popularly known as Mint is mainly used for its aromatic characteristics. And is widely found in Eurasia, Australia, South Africa, the USA, and China. Spearmint essential oils are widely used in food, cosmetics, confectionery, chewing gum, toothpaste, mouthwashes, and pharmaceutical industries (1). Some of the spearmint essential oil uses are mainly as a mosquito repellent, in the treatment of Alzheimer’s and other neurodegenerative diseases.
Constitutes of spearmint oil
Spearmint oil contains oxygenated monoterpenes (90%) followed by sesquiterpene and monoterpene hydrocarbons (6 and 3%, respectively). The aroma and flavor of spearmint oil are due to the presence of carvone (22%–73%). It also contains limonene (8%–31%), with smaller quantities of 1,8-cineole (4%–7%), menthone (1%–5%), menthol, eucalyptol, and other minor compounds (2).
Spearmint essential oil benefits
Some of the spearmint essential oil uses and benefits are as follows
1. Spearmint oil as Mosquito repellent
Spearmint oil contains carvone (48.60%), cis-carveol (21.30%), and limonene (11.30%) which show toxic effects against Culex quinquefasciatus, Aedes aegypti, and Anopheles stephensi thus protect from mosquito biting (3).
2. Treat Obesity, Alzheimer’s Disease, Dermatophytosis
Spearmint oil contains a high amount of carvone which inhibits the activity of an enzyme that causes Alzheimer’s disease (AD) and overweight diseases (cholinesterase and porcine pancreatic lipase) and has also shown strong anti-dermatophytic activity against Microsporum canis, Trichophyton rubrum, mentagrophytes, and Epidermophyton floccosum. Furthermore, spearmint oil helps to fight against Staphylococcus aureusthat causes drug-resistant infection. Therefore the application of spearmint oil may be used to treat obesity, Alzheimer’s disease, and dermatophytosis (4).
3. Treat arthritis
Spearmint oil is a good source of carvone, limonene, and menthol which exhibit analgesic effects therefore massage with spearmint oil reduces the pain severity in osteoarthritis patients (5).
4. Radioprotective properties
Intake of spearmint oil (10%) protects the gastric mucosa caused by gamma radiation thus preventing radiation-induced damage (6).
5. Keep oral healthy
A combination of Spearmint and red gum essential oil inhibits the growth of Streptococcus mutants and Streptococcus pyogenes by affecting biofilm formation thus preventing tooth decay (7).
6. Treat neurodegenerative disorders
Spearmint oil contains 1, 8-cineole which shows a wonderful effect on the treatment of neurological disorders such as Alzheimer’s disease (8).
7. Spearmint tea
The benefits of spearmint tea include it is good for treating PCOS, body pain, anxiety, and insomnia.
8. Aromatherapy
The irresistible aroma of this oil makes it a popular choice for aromatherapy. This oil promotes mental clarity, reduces stress and anxiety, and provides a refreshing feeling or relaxation. It can also help alleviate headaches and soothe nausea when diffused or inhaled.
9. Good for digestion
Spearmint essential oil is known for its digestive benefits. When diluted and applied topically or ingested in moderation, it can help ease indigestion, bloating, and nausea. It may also stimulate the appetite and support overall digestive health.
10. Clear congested airways
Spearmint essential oil can assist in respiratory health. When diffused or used in steam inhalation, it can help clear congested airways, reduce symptoms of respiratory conditions, and promote easier breathing.