A Versatile Herb in Chinese Medicine

Overview

Spearmint is renowned in traditional Chinese medicine for its potential in addressing common colds, coughs, headaches, abdominal pain, and menstrual pain.

Description

• Warm, pungent, and sweet, spearmint promotes energy circulation and relieves pain.

Preparation

• Cook tender, fresh peppermint leaves in water with chicken eyes (a colloquial term for small, rounded parts of the chicken) and eat as soup to alleviate headache symptoms.
• Spearmint has calming effects on the spirits and may also provide relief for the common cold. It has a long history in Chinese folk medicine for easing headaches and dizziness. One anecdote tells of a woman who, after suffering from chronic headaches for ten years, found solace by drinking spearmint soup for less than a month.
• Many Vietnamese women consider spearmint an essential herb for headache relief, often consuming it as tea.

Notes

Spearmint's potential effectiveness in relieving headaches might be attributed to its action on the liver. In Chinese medicine, the liver is thought to be responsible for headaches related to stress.

Conclusion

Spearmint's unique properties have cemented its place in the world of Chinese medicine. Its warm, pungent, and sweet nature, coupled with its potential ability to promote energy circulation and alleviate pain, makes it a versatile herb. Whether enjoyed in a soothing tea or a nourishing soup, spearmint continues to be a cherished part of wellness routines around the world.