In a world where traditional and natural medicine intertwines, the Brazilian mint emerges as a groundbreaking discovery. Research has shown its pain-relieving properties, comparable to synthetic drugs.
The Pain-Relieving Effects of Mint Tea
A study conducted by the renowned University of Newcastle in England found that Hyptis crenata, commonly known as “Brazilian mint,” has pain-relieving properties similar to conventional medicines available in pharmacies.
Do you experience pain? You might want to consider mint tea as a potential remedy. This finding stems from research conducted on mice, presented at the International Symposium on Medicinal Plants and Nutraceuticals in New Delhi, India.
Before beginning their experimental tests, the research team conducted a thorough survey in Brazil. Their goal was to understand how mint is used in traditional medicine and determine the optimal dosage for consumption.
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Through their study, they found that the most common way to prepare this plant is through an infusion. The dried leaves of the Brazilian mint are boiled in water for about 30 minutes. After boiling, the infusion is allowed to cool before consumption.
Remarkably, the team found that when the mint was administered in a dosage similar to that recommended by traditional healers, the pain relief was comparable to indomethacin, a synthetic drug similar to aspirin. With these results, the researchers plan to conduct clinical trials to assess the effectiveness of Brazilian mint on humans.
Graciela Rocha, the leader of this research, reflects on the historic relationship between humans and medicinal plants: “From the dawn of time, we have looked to nature for remedies.” In fact, it’s estimated that over 50,000 plants are currently used for medicinal purposes worldwide.
Beyond their ancestral use, it’s astounding to think that over half of the drugs prescribed today originate from molecules naturally present in plants.
“Our research aims to scientifically validate the use of a plant popularly employed for pain relief. Now, the challenge is to understand why and how it works,” says Rocha.
The Science-Backed Analgesic Secret and Its Difference from Common Mint
The Pain-relieving Properties of Brazilian Mint: Tradition and Science Together in Medical Discoveries
Graciela Rocha, from Brazil, shares a personal story. She recalls that during her childhood, she was given mint tea to ease various discomforts. However, she points out a key difference:
“The taste of Brazilian mint is quite different from the commonly known mint flavor. In fact, it tastes more like sage, another mint family member, and not everyone likes it.”
Regarding the research, Dr. Beverly Collett, chair of the Chronic Pain Policy Coalition, suggests that more studies are needed to pinpoint the molecule behind these pain-relieving effects.
Yet, she acknowledges the significance of this research for creating new analgesics. Highlighting the long-standing relationship between humans and plants, she mentions that the benefits of substances similar to aspirin have been known since ancient Greeks wrote about using willow bark to fight fever.
“The leaves and bark of the willow tree contain salicin, a natural compound similar to acetylsalicylic acid, the main ingredient in aspirin,” the expert concludes.
Brazilian mint, traditionally known for its healing properties, has been scientifically validated for its pain-relieving qualities by researchers at Newcastle University.
These findings, on par with synthetic drugs, pave the way for a future where natural remedies can coexist with conventional medicine.
It’s vital to remember the rich history of plants in medicine and to keep exploring their potential for humanity’s benefit. The fusion of tradition and science might be the key to innovative and effective treatments in the future.
This article was developed based on information and content provided by BBC Mundo.
