Did you know that those over the age of 65 are actually considered to be the most unhealthy age group? A lot of the time, health concerns, chronic conditions, and certain disorders that seniors may experience can be prevented. It all starts with the intention to be a bit healthier and to pay attention to your general levels of wellness. Something that most people don’t know is that there are at least 600 varieties of mint and they all have their own benefits. There are some that could act as an essential additive to a senior’s diet.
While it may seem like mint will have a universal type of flavor for recognition, regardless of the type, every variety has very distinct flavors and they aren’t hard to tell apart from one another if you’ve tried more than one. Mint is rich in antioxidants and has anti-inflammatory properties, making it an adaptable plant that could lend wellness support to those that have multiple reasons why they might need it.
If you’re a senior living in Florida and you are looking for ways to boost your health and enhance your overall wellness, there are a few plants that you should know about along with some of their hidden benefits.
Uncovering the Benefits of Mint
The main thing to point out about this plant is that it has a long history of being used as an herbal remedy. If you have trouble sleeping, you experience digestive problems, or you suffer from heightened anxiety, mint can help. It’s often overlooked compared to over-the-counter fixes and this might be one of the top reasons that unintended problems are encountered when taking different medications.
The menthol in mint has an analgesic effect that can help to relieve pain and inflammation. Also, it’s ideal for seniors to know that mint has antispasmodic properties which can help to relax the muscles, making it a great natural remedy for cramps. The reason this is important is that it’s versatile enough to calm different types of cramping. So, it could be used as a natural aid for body aches and a remedy for seniors getting conditioned to physical activity on a daily basis.
Additionally, mint is a good source of antioxidants and has antibacterial and antiviral properties, which makes it beneficial for boosting the immune system and the list doesn’t stop there for how it can benefit seniors. Keep in mind, there are more than just a few types.
Harness the Power of Six Different Types of Mint
- Peppermint
Peppermint is one of the most popular forms of the plant and you might have already tried using this particular type for a variety of things. Not only is peppermint known as an aid for the common cold but it helps with sinus infections, headaches, and even muscle pain. For seniors that often experience joint pain, peppermint is a natural way to get some type of relief. - Spearmint
Spearmint is a garden mint and it’s very well-known. When you hear, “spearmint”, you might immediately think of an actual mint or a flavored piece of gum rather than an herb that has uses you might not have ever realized. If you’re a senior that suffers from low blood sugar, spearmint is a great remedy for that.Not only that but it’s good for helping to improve digestion which you will realize is a common trend among different varieties. It’s also high in antioxidants and believe it or not, it even helps with memory improvement.
- Apple Mint
Apple mint is a go-to option for those that deal with persistent problems with digestion. It’s also a great thing to have during colder months because it can help to relieve both headaches and fevers which are two common symptoms associated with the common cold and the flu. For seniors living in Florida, the cold months don’t last too long and they aren’t too harsh but keep in mind that it doesn’t have to be cold out for you to get sick. - Pineapple Mint
This type of mint plant may not be as well-known as peppermint or spearmint but it has a variety of medicinal properties. Not only can it be used to provide support for different ailments, but it’s also often a great addition to smoothies, and salads, or a good choice for a garnish.This means that seniors can enhance their health and wellness while adding a kick to their favorite recipes if they wish to do so. It’s often known as “wooly mint” and aside from its complete existence, not many seniors are even aware that it’s a great solution to mental sluggishness and can even provide aid for those that have certain respiratory issues.
Another thing to consider is that at least 50% of those over the age of 65 have been diagnosed with arthritis. Pineapple mint is a great treatment option for inflammatory diseases…arthritis being one of them.
- Chocolate Mint
Chocolate mint might be thought of in the sense of dessert and that’s because it’s a very popular choice for different dessert recipes. While it is tasty and you might think of a York peppermint patty or a cake flavor, the chocolate mint plant actually has a few notable health advantages for seniors such as;- Anti-inflammatory properties
- Helps with respiratory disorders
- Anti-viral properties
- Acts as an aid for headaches
Along with all of these benefits, seniors that may suffer from insomnia can use chocolate mint as a resource for better sleep and it’s a great palette cleanser as well.
- Water Mint
Water mint hybridizes with other types of mint very easily so, if you put water mint and spearmint together, you would get peppermint. With this mint plant, you get a solution to reducing fevers and headaches. Also, for seniors that struggle with forming a good appetite, water mint can actually help to stimulate it.
Better Wellness for Seniors, From a Different View
Unless you’re used to putting the mint plant to good use for home remedies, chances are you might not have been aware of these types of mint, let alone the variety of health advantages they contain. Mint is a versatile and powerful plant with a wide range of benefits that can be tailored to the needs of any senior living in Florida. From supporting the immune system to relieving pain and inflammation, mint can have a positive impact on your health and wellness with less need for prescription alternatives in some cases.
The next time you are looking for a natural way to support your health or add flavor and a wellness boost to your food, reach for an herb with a lot to offer….mint.
