peppermint leaves

Mint is a popular herb for horses, dogs and other animals thanks to its soothing properties and rich inviting smell. Mint is widely used to help support healthy digestion and for encouraging horses that tend to be " fussy eaters " to eat up. For people it can be used to make a soothing tea. Horses love the smell and flavour mint adds to their food.

One of peppermint’s best-known applications in the health world is in treating Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) – and while it’s long been a folk remedy to soothe the constipation and bloating associated with IBS, modern medicine is catching up. Multiple studies have revealed that peppermint is more effective than fibre or prescribed muscle relaxants. #Peppermint’s high menthol content has a calming effect on the intestinal smooth muscle and holds antispasmodic properties. Additionally, the cooling menthol activates the anti-pain channel known as TRPM8, delivering temporary yet effective pain relief by dulling pain-sensing fibres in the gut.

Peppermint essential oil has several uses. Processed from the leaves of the plant, the essential oil is used as flavouring for toothpastes and chewing gum. The oil also has a high concentration of natural pesticides – predominantly pulegone. So, it is also used within the gardening industry and is known to repel some insects including mosquitoes.

Some distilleries use peppermint in gin production for a refreshing twist on the popular drink.