Originally, spearmint only grew in Asia and Europe before spreading to the rest of the world. Most people are acquainted with the plant as an herb commonly used in certain foods and chewing gum. Spearmint is also used in many oral hygiene products. However, many people don’t know about the many health benefits associated with the common mint plant.
Culinary Options
Fresh or dried leaves can be used for flavoring in baked goods, ice cream, or sauces or made into teas. Making spearmint tea simply involves combining a handful of fresh leaves or a teaspoon of dried leaves with two pints of water and bringing the mixture to a boil. Allow the leaves to steep for approximately 10 minutes. Strain and enjoy the following benefits.
Nutritional Benefits
Each teaspoon of dried spearmint leaves contains 10 milligrams of potassium and one percent each of the daily recommended requirements of calcium and vitamin A. The serving also provides two percent of iron. Each of these nutrients are important for senior health and wellbeing.
Seniors who want to remain healthy as they age can benefit in a variety of ways when they receive professional elderly home care. Assisting Hands Home Care is here to help your loved one accomplish daily tasks, prevent illness, and focus on living a healthier and more fulfilling life.
Cardiovascular Benefits
The potassium levels contained within spearmint regulate blood pressure, as the mineral acts as a vasodilator. This way, spearmint aids in protecting against heart attacks and strokes. Seniors taking diuretics commonly need potassium supplementation to regulate the cardiovascular system. Additionally, the iron content provided by spearmint stimulates red blood cell and hemoglobin production, which aids in anemia prevention. Increasing iron intake also boosts circulation, elevates energy levels, and enhances the healing process.
Gastrointestinal Benefits
Consumed by drinking tea or chewing fresh leaves, spearmint has been known to relieve nausea and vomiting. The chemical compounds also relax the smooth muscles of the digestive tract, which in turn alleviates bloating, cramping, and the excess gas commonly associated with indigestion and other gastric disorders.
If your loved one needs help planning and preparing nutritious meals, a home caregiver can be a wonderful source of support. The type of home care Frederick seniors need can vary. Some need assistance a few hours a day, while others require more extensive around-the-clock assistance. At Assisting Hands Home Care, we tailor our care plans based on each senior’s individual care needs, and the plans can be adjusted at any time.
Respiratory Benefits
Hot spearmint tea thins mucus, while the aroma reduces nasal and lung congestion. The anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties of the herb help the immune system fight infection.
Ensuring an elderly relative maintains a nutritious diet is often an arduous task for family members. Families who find it difficult to care for their aging loved ones without assistance can benefit greatly from professional respite care. Frederick, MD, family caregivers who need a break from their caregiving duties can turn to Assisting Hands Home Care. Our caregivers can encourage your loved one to eat well, exercise regularly, get plenty of mental and social stimulation, and focus on other lifestyle factors that promote longevity. Schedule a free in-home consultation by giving us a call today.
