Mint (Mentha spicata, Mentha x piperita), the matriarch of the mint family, is used extensively as a culinary herb for its refreshing flavor and its cooling effect on the tongue. The herb is also widely cultivated for medicinal purposes, particularly its anti-inflammatory and gastrointestinal benefits.
It is also used as an herbal remedy for its calming and relaxing effects on the body, mind, and spirit. It is said to relieve stress, indigestion, and tension. It is also believed to increase blood flow and relax the nerves. Additionally, it is said to help clear the lungs and respiratory passages.
Recently, it has been discovered that smoking mint leaves can help a smoker quit tobacco. Smoking the herb, which doesn’t contain nicotine, has a similar effect profile to that of cigarettes and can reduce withdrawal symptoms associated with quitting tobacco use. In addition, mint is known to boost concentration and improve mood.
The herb is often smoked by itself and is available at most grocery stores. However, it is most frequently combined with tobacco for a smoking blend. Smoking blends made from mint leaves and other herbs, including uva ursi (bearberry) and yerba buena (sweet yerba mate), have been a huge success among a segment of tobacco smokers for quite some time.
The weed plant contains natural chemicals called terpenes, which produce the herb’s unique aroma and can enhance the therapeutic effects of the herb when smoked. The terpenes can have analgesic, anti-inflammatory, and antibacterial properties. They can also relieve nausea and vomiting. The plant’s extracts can also help reduce the side effects of chemotherapy drugs.