Jamaican black mint tea, also known as black peppermint tea, is made from one of the more than 20 varieties of spearmint. This hybrid mint, scientifically known as Mentha spicata, originated from the natural cross-breeding of watermint and spearmint. It has a much stronger mint profile than regular garden mint.
European colonists brought Mentha spicata to the Caribbean where it adapted to the tropical climate and became integrated into local herbal practices. In Jamaica, the herb gained the name “Jamaican black mint” due to its dark appearance.
How Black Mint Tea Helps IBS
Research-based findings determined how Jamaican black mint may help relieve symtoms of Irritable Bowel Syndorme. Jamaican black mint tea contains natural compounds the perform these functions:
- Muscle Relaxation: By relaxing the smooth muscles in the intestines, peppermint oil can help ease pain and spasms associated with IBS.
- Reduced Gas Production:The carminative properties of menthol help reduce gas formation, alleviating bloating and discomfort.
- Improved Digestive Function: Consuming Jamaican black mint tea can stimulate bile flow, aiding digestion and reducing symptoms of indigestion often linked with IBS.
Take Note: The use of Jamaican black mint tea for IBS is supported by a limited number of clinical trials, and more research is needed to fully understand its benefits. Stay informed as more studies unfold.
Jamaican Black Mint Health Benefits
Several studies confirm that black peppermint contains active compounds beneficial for managing Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS). These compounds include menthol, flavonoids, and rosmarinic acid. Let’s explore how they work.
Menthol
Menthol in black peppermint for digestive health: Menthol in spearmint tea has antispasmodic properties. It also has pain-relieving properties1, providing a soothing effect that can alleviate abdominal pain and discomfort associated with IBS.
Flavonoids
Flavonoids in black peppermint tea for gut health: The Flavonoids in black peppermint have anti-inflammatory properties. Drinking peppermint tea can help reduce inflammation in the gut, which is a common cause of IBS symptoms.
Rosmarinic Acid
Using rosmarinic acid in black mint for IBS: Rosmarinic acid has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that help balance digestive system bacteria2. So, consuming black mint tea can reduce IBS symptoms.
Related Article: You may also like Rare Bush Mint Tea
Traditinal Uses
In Jamaica and the wider Caribbean, Jamaican black mint tea has been adopted into traditional herbal medicine.This mint tea is used as a natural remedy for headaches, respiratory problems, and nausea. It is also is one of of the most widely used Jamaican bush teas for stomach issues, including Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS).
How to Use Jamaican Black Mint for IBS
Enteric-coated peppermint oil capsules are the most effective way to use peppermint for IBS. The enteric coating ensures that the capsules pass through the stomach intact and dissolve in the intestines, where the menthol can provide the most benefit
1. Enteric-coated Peppermint Oil Capsules
Enteric-coated peppermint oil capsules can significantly reduce IBS symptoms, including abdominal pain and bloating. Swallow the capsules whole with water. Do not chew or break them. Experts recommend taking 1 to 2 capsules (0.2 ml to 0.4 ml of peppermint oil) three times a day before meals.
2. Black Peppermint Tea
Drinking black peppermint tea can provide a milder dose of menthol and other beneficial compounds, offering some relief from IBS symptoms. Here’s how to make Jamaican black mint tea.
- Boil water and pour it over 1-2 teaspoons of dried mint leaves or one tea bag.
- Steep for 5-10 minutes, depending on the desired strength.
- Strain the leaves (if using loose leaves) and drink the tea.
- Add a small amount of honey for flavor and added benefits.
Recommendation: Drink 2-3 cups of black peppermint tea daily, preferably after meals to get its benefits for Irritable Bowel Symptom.
3. Peppermint Oil Extracts
Peppermint extracts can be used in a variety of ways to provide relief from IBS symptoms. Add a few drops to water, tea, or another beverage and drink. While this method is less studied than capsules, it can still offer benefits due to the presence of menthol.
Tips: For Best Results
- Be consistent: For best results, use Jamaican black mint as part of your daily routine.
- Pick the right time: Taking black peppermint oil capsules before meals can help prevent IBS symptoms triggered by food.
- Talk with your doctor: Always consult with a healthcare provider before starting any new supplement, especially if you have other health conditions or are taking medications.
Conclusion
Using Jamaican black mint tea for IBS can be an effective natural remedy, especially in the form of enteric-coated peppermint oil capsules and peppermint tea.
These methods help deliver the active compound menthol in mint, to the intestines, providing relief from symptoms like abdominal pain, bloating, and gas.
References
- Yousuf, P. M. H., et al. “Analgesic, Anti-Inflammatory and Antipyretic Effect of Mentha Spicata (Spearmint)”. Journal of Pharmaceutical Research International, vol. 3, no. 4, July 2013, pp. 854-6, doi:10.9734/BJPR/2013/4640. ↩︎
- Connelly, A Erin et al. “High-rosmarinic acid spearmint tea in the management of knee osteoarthritis symptoms.” Journal of medicinal food vol. 17,12 (2014): 1361-7. doi:10.1089/jmf.2013.0189 ↩︎
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