Who knew that the wild mint that scents afternoon hikes with its fresh smell actually bursts at the helm with health benefits too? Native to Europe, the Mediterranean, Africa and Australia, wild mint (Mentha longifolia) has long been used as a folk remedy for a broad range of ailments, including gastrointestinal problems and sore throats. Wild mint has been found to have potent antimicrobial, antifungal and antioxidative effects, and even anti-cancer activity. With such multifaceted pharmacological applications, this mint varietal offers a refreshing array of health benefits alongside its sweet taste. (Source)
Wild Mint for Antioxidants
Much research has found wild mint to have high antioxidant activity that leads to other health benefits. One study found particularly high antioxidant activity and free-radical scavenging ability in methanol extract of wild mint. (Source) Another study examined ethanol extract of Mentha longifolia and found the extract to protect against crucial types of cell damage. (Source) Wild mint was also found to exhibit markedly high free-radical scavenging activity in an assessment of nine varieties of Mentha species. (Source)
Wild Mint for Gastrointestinal Health
Wild mint is widely used for its digestive benefits, especially for diarrheal disorders. In one study, Mentha longifolia essential oil was found to inhibit diarrhea in rats by preventing intestinal hyperactivity and hypersecretion associated with the condition. (Source) Another study investigated the applications of wild mint in hyperactive gut disorders, and it was found that crude Mentha longifolia extract inhibited spontaneous gut contractions due to its calcium-channel blocking activity. (Source)
Wild Mint for Cancer Treatment and Prevention
Wild mint has also been studied at length for its cancer-fighting activity. One study assessed the anticancer activity of the mint varietal, and found it to produce significant antimutagenic effects on mammalian cell lines. (Source) In another study, methanolic extracts of Mentha longifolia and Ocimum basilicum produced remarkable cytotoxic effects on human breast cancer cell lines. (Source) Methanolic extract of Wild mint, in addition to extracts of two other mint species, was found to have a significant antiproliferative effect against human cancer cells. (Source)
NUTRITIONAL PROFILE
Wild mint, 2 tbsp (11g)
Calories: 5
Total Carbohydrate: 1g
Vitamin A: 9% Daily Value
Vitamin C: 2%
Folate: 3%
Calcium: 2%
Iron: 7%
Magnesium: 2%
Manganese: 6%