The older one gets, the seriousness of maintaining a healthy lifestyle increases three-fold. We opt for healthy choices by adhering to certain kinds of foods, diets, and supplements. But when on a diet, how can one not include greens? Here, we are talking about herbs and spices such as coriander, parsley, thyme, rosemary, and mint. Now, talking about mint – wouldn’t you be amazed to know that there is something known as Japanese mint? Well, we most certainly are amazed!
Japanese mint is a strong plant known for a plethora of reasons but mainly released as an essential oil due to the menthol that comes from the flowering herb. It is not just restricted to essential oil but is also popular as a Japanese weight loss patch, which is used for losing weight on a specific body part. Now, let’s dig a little deeper and find the intricacies in detail.
Japanese Mint
Japanese mint is a plant, also scientifically known as Mentha Arvensis. To obtain medicine, the oil is removed from the parts that grow above the ground. The field mint is widespread all over Asia and Europe up to China and Siberia. The plant is sturdy and a frost-immune herb that grows abundantly in high altitudinal conditions and survives areas of up to 1500 meters. When the leaves are rubbed, they release a strong menthol aroma and therefore are easily confused with peppermint. This mint is also the principal origin of menthol – a food flavoring agent. Besides, the Japanese mint is also known for its oil and weight loss patches. Let us know more in detail. [1]
Japanese mint is used for its medicinal and holistic properties. Photo Credit: Shutterstock
Japanese Mint Oil
The Japanese mint oil is used for various ailments such as common cold, fever, poor appetite, indigestion, gas, nausea, diarrhea, and irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). Furthermore, topical menthol present in this herb also helps in increasing blood flow and acts as a vasodilator. Besides, it has a mild aromatic fragrance which is a good addition in toiletries. According to a study in the Journal of Essential Oil Research, results show the feasibility of using Japanese mint oil as a refreshing agent in toiletry products. [2] [3] [4]
Japanese Weight Loss Patch
Weight loss is a booming industry. From paleo diets to slimming patches and pills, a whole gamut of supplements and medications are available. Japanese people are popular for their toned physique and glowing skin. Lately, the mint patches are creating a stir in the weight loss market as they are easy to use and effectively free from side effects. These skin patches claim to show results in two ways: boosting metabolism and decreasing appetite. Others promise benefits like boosting energy, lowering blood pressure, and improving focus. However, the British Journal of Pharmacology suggests that future studies are required to establish the genuineness of this product. [5]
Word of advice: Japanese mint oil is not advised during pregnancy, for breastfeeding mothers, or even those who are sensitive to allergies. As a prudent measure, it is not recommended for use for children under the age of four. It is advisable to consult with the doctor if you are a first-time user. [6] [7]
