11 Kitchen Spices That Work Better Than Your Medicine Cabinet

8. Mint — Soothing for the stomach and breath

Mint is a common herb in chutneys, teas, and summer drinks, and it’s also used for digestion and breath freshness. Peppermint oil, a concentrated form, has been studied for irritable bowel syndrome and shows benefit for easing abdominal pain and bloating in some people. At home, mint tea, mint chutney with meals, or a small sprig in water can soothe stomach upset and lift breath quality. Be careful with peppermint if you have gastroesophageal reflux disease; for some people, mint can relax the lower esophageal sphincter and worsen heartburn. Avoid putting concentrated peppermint oil near the face of infants and young children. Using fresh or lightly brewed mint in modest amounts is a pleasant, generally safe way to try its digestive and soothing qualities in everyday life.