Pudina (Mint)

The name pudina comes from the Persian pudinah, which passed into Hindi and Urdu as the everyday word for mint; in English, the plant is simply called mint. Pudina belongs to the Lamiaceae, or mint, family, and the two species most widely used in India are Mentha arvensis (field mint) and Mentha piperita (peppermint). The plant is native to Europe and temperate Asia and has long been cultivated across the Indian subcontinent, where later Ayurvedic nighantus (classical glossaries of medicinal plants), such as the Bhavaprakasha Nighantu, describe its use as a digestive herb.

In Ayurveda, pudina is classified as Katu Rasa (pungent taste), with Laghu (light) and Ruksha (dry) Guna and a Katu Vipaka (pungent post-digestive effect), and it is traditionally believed to help balance Kapha and Pitta doshas. It is valued for its Deepana (appetite-stimulating) and Pachana (digestion-supporting) actions.

Pudina is known by several names across languages and regions in India. The main ones are listed below.

• Botanical name: Mentha arvensis Linn.
• English: Mint
• Hindi, Urdu, Punjabi and Marathi: Pudina
• Tamil: Pudhina ilai
• Telugu: Pudina akulu
• Kannada: Pudina elegalu
• Malayalam: Putina ila
• Gujarati: Phodina

Pudina's actions are attributed mainly to compounds concentrated in its essential oil. The key constituents identified in scientific studies include:

• Menthol: the main compound behind pudina's cooling sensation and a contributor to its carminative activity (Tafrihi et al., 2021)
• Menthone: contributes to the herb's characteristic aroma and has been studied for its antimicrobial activity (Tafrihi et al., 2021)
• Menthyl acetate: present in the essential oil and contributes to its fragrance profile (Arshad et al., 2023)
• Limonene: a naturally occurring compound with antioxidant activity reported in laboratory studies across Mentha species (Tafrihi et al., 2021)
• Rosmarinic acid and flavonoids: polyphenolic compounds with antioxidant activity reported in laboratory studies (Tafrihi et al., 2021)

Pudina's pharmacological actions have been studied mainly for their role in digestive and general wellness support. Based on the available research, pudina is understood to have the following properties:

• Carminative: may help relieve trapped gas and bloating in the digestive tract
• Antispasmodic: may help ease spasms of the gastrointestinal smooth muscle
• Antimicrobial: shows activity against certain bacteria and fungi in laboratory studies
• Antioxidant: has antioxidant activity, partly attributed to its polyphenol content
• Anti-inflammatory: may help reduce localised inflammation
• Analgesic: traditionally used for mild, topical relief such as tension headache
• Deepana-Pachana: recognised in Ayurveda for its appetite-stimulating and digestion-supporting action

Most of this evidence comes from laboratory and animal research. Clinical evidence in humans is strongest for enteric-coated peppermint oil in irritable bowel syndrome (Alammar et al., 2019), while evidence for the other traditional uses listed above remains limited and is based mainly on traditional practice rather than large trials.

Pudina is traditionally used to support digestion and ease occasional bloating or digestive discomfort. Research on peppermint preparations has also found potential benefits for some IBS symptoms, short-term alertness, tension-type headache and topical nipple discomfort. The strength of evidence varies by preparation and use, so these findings should not be assumed to apply equally to all forms of pudina.

1. Support for Indigestion and Digestive Discomfort

Pudina acts as a natural carminative. Research indicates that menthol may relax the smooth muscles of the gastrointestinal tract, which may help reduce trapped gas and spasms. Traditionally, pudina is taken after meals to ease indigestion, bloating and mild digestive discomfort (Tafrihi et al., 2021).

2. Support for Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) Symptoms

A meta-analysis of clinical trials found that enteric-coated peppermint oil was significantly more effective than placebo in easing IBS-related abdominal pain and improving overall symptoms (Alammar et al., 2019). The enteric coating helps the oil reach the intestine rather than being released in the stomach.

3. Support for Nipple Discomfort During Breastfeeding (Topical, Diluted Use)

A randomised controlled trial found that a properly diluted, topical peppermint water preparation helped prevent nipple cracks in breastfeeding women when applied after feeds (Sayyah Melli et al., 2007). Only food-grade, correctly diluted preparations should be used, and breastfeeding women should consult their doctor before use.

4. Support for Alertness and Mental Focus

In a clinical study, inhaling the aroma of peppermint was associated with short-term improvements in alertness and cognitive performance compared with a control scent (Moss et al., 2008). The effect is temporary and linked to sensory stimulation rather than a direct action on brain chemistry.

5. Traditional Use for Mild Tension Headache

A clinical study found that a diluted peppermint oil preparation applied to the forehead and temples eased pain in people with tension-type headache (Göbel et al., 1994). This is a topical, traditional use only, and it does not replace medical treatment for recurring or severe headaches.

Pudina is commonly used as a culinary herb, traditional digestive aid and ingredient in Ayurvedic preparations. Its leaves and extracts are also used in beverages, oral-care products, and topical or inhalation preparations for their cooling and refreshing properties. These uses are mainly culinary, traditional or supportive in nature.

As a Post-Meal Digestive Aid

Fresh pudina leaves, chutneys or tea are traditionally taken after meals in Indian households to support digestion and freshen the breath.

As a Culinary and Flavouring Herb

Pudina is widely used to flavour chutneys, raita, beverages and savoury dishes, and is a common ingredient across Indian cuisine.

In Traditional Ayurvedic Preparations

Pudina leaves and their extracts, such as swarasa (fresh juice), kwath (decoction) and arka (distillate), are used as ingredients in traditional Ayurvedic digestive preparations (Paul et al., 2019).

In Aromatherapy and Topical Cooling Preparations

Diluted pudina oil is used in inhalation and topical preparations for its cooling, refreshing sensation and pleasant aroma.

In Oral Care Preparations

Pudina extracts are a common ingredient in toothpaste, mouthwash and breath fresheners because of their aromatic and antimicrobial activity.

Pudina offers several traditional and studied benefits, but the precautions below should be followed to use it safely.

• Pregnancy and breastfeeding: Consumption in ordinary food amounts is generally considered acceptable, but pregnant and breastfeeding women should consult their doctor before using pudina medicinally or in concentrated forms.
• Allergy: Avoid pudina if you are allergic to mint or to other plants in the Lamiaceae family.
• Infants and young children: Menthol-containing oil or concentrated forms should never be applied to the face of, or inhaled by, infants and young children, as this may affect their breathing (National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health, n.d.).
• GERD (acid reflux): Pudina may relax the sphincter between the food pipe and the stomach and can worsen heartburn; people with GERD should use it cautiously and speak to their doctor (National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health, n.d.).
• Fertility: There is currently no robust human clinical evidence that pudina improves fertility. Some animal studies suggest that very high, concentrated intakes of certain Mentha species may lower testosterone levels (Akdogan et al., 2004); pudina should not be used as a fertility treatment or for self-medication for fertility concerns.

Note: Speak to a healthcare professional if you experience gastrointestinal discomfort, an allergic reaction, or any other unexpected symptom while using pudina.

Pudina can be used in several forms. Instructions differ slightly depending on the form you have, as set out below.

Using Pudina Tablets

Take a pudina tablet after meals if you are experiencing indigestion or gas, and follow the dose and frequency stated on the product label or advised by your healthcare provider.

Taking Pudina Capsules

Pudina capsules contain a concentrated extract of the leaves and are generally taken with water alongside a meal; follow the label directions or your healthcare provider's advice on frequency.

Applying or Inhaling Pudina Drops

Pudina drops (essential oil) are used in diluted form, either added to hot water for steam inhalation to provide temporary relief from nasal congestion, or diluted in a carrier oil before limited topical use; never apply undiluted.

Using Pudina Oil Topically or in Aromatherapy

Dilute pudina oil in a carrier oil before applying to the skin for muscle discomfort, or add a few drops to a diffuser or bowl of hot water for aromatherapy; avoid contact with the eyes and broken skin.

Preparing Pudina Kwath (Decoction)

Boil fresh or dried pudina leaves in water for 10 to 15 minutes, strain, and drink the decoction once or twice a day, or as advised by your Ayurvedic practitioner.

Brewing Pudina Tea

Steep fresh or dried pudina leaves in hot water for 5 to 7 minutes, strain, and drink warm; honey or lemon can be added to taste.

Herbs Traditionally Used With Pudina

Pudina is traditionally combined with other digestive herbs in Ayurvedic practice. Some common pairings are set out in the table below.

Dosage needs vary by age group. The general guidance below is not a substitute for advice from a doctor or Ayurvedic practitioner, particularly for children and older adults.

• Children: Pudina in ordinary culinary amounts, as a flavouring in food, is generally considered acceptable. Concentrated forms such as oil, tablets or capsules are not recommended for children without medical advice, and menthol-containing preparations must never be applied to the face of, or inhaled by, infants and young children.
• Teenagers: Culinary use is generally fine; medicinal forms such as tablets, capsules or oil should only be used as directed by a healthcare provider.
• Adults: Powder, ½ to 1 teaspoon; oil, 2 to 5 drops, always diluted, for inhalation or topical use; tablets and capsules as directed on the product label or by a healthcare provider.
• Elderly: The same general guidance as for adults applies. Those taking multiple medicines, or with GERD, liver disease or swallowing difficulties, should consult their doctor before regular medicinal use.

Pudina may be well tolerated when used in normal culinary or recommended amounts. Some people may experience the following.

Hypersensitivity Reactions

People allergic to the Lamiaceae family may develop skin rash, itching or, rarely, a more serious allergic reaction after contact with or consumption of pudina.

Heartburn and Acid Reflux

Pudina may relax the sphincter between the food pipe and stomach, which can worsen heartburn or acid reflux in some people (National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health, n.d.).

Gastrointestinal Discomfort

Concentrated forms, such as pudina oil taken in excess, may cause nausea, abdominal discomfort or dry mouth.

Skin and Respiratory Irritation

Undiluted oil applied to the skin, or inhaled in concentrated form, may irritate the skin or airways, particularly in infants, young children and sensitive individuals.

Clinical evidence on pudina's interactions with medicines is limited. The cautions below are based on its known pharmacological actions and general pharmacy practice, and should be confirmed with a doctor or pharmacist.

Antacids and Other Acid-Reducing Medicines

Peppermint oil capsules are often enteric-coated so that the oil is released in the intestine rather than the stomach. Taking antacids at the same time may affect how this coating dissolves; follow the product instructions and check with a pharmacist before taking them together.

Diabetes Medicines

There is currently no well-documented clinical evidence of a specific interaction between pudina and antidiabetic medicines. As a general precaution, people on such medicines should tell their doctor before using pudina medicinally on a regular basis.

Blood Pressure Medicines

No well-documented interaction has been established in the clinical literature reviewed. People on blood pressure medicines should still mention regular pudina use to their doctor, particularly for concentrated oil forms.

Liver-Related Medicines and Conditions

People with pre-existing liver conditions, or those taking medicines that are processed by the liver, should consult their doctor before regular medicinal use of concentrated pudina extracts or oil, as human safety data in this group is limited.

Storage of Pudina

Store fresh pudina leaves in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week, or freeze them in ice cube trays with a little water for longer storage. Store dried leaves, powder, tablets, capsules and oil in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and moisture, in a tightly sealed container, and use them before the expiry date on the pack.

Pudina is a widely used Ayurvedic herb traditionally valued for supporting digestion and easing indigestion, bloating and gas, with a cooling, refreshing sensation. Peppermint oil in particular has clinical evidence supporting its use for IBS-related abdominal discomfort. Pudina is available in several forms, including fresh leaves, tea, tablets, capsules and oil. It is generally well tolerated in recommended amounts, but people with GERD, mint allergies or pre-existing medical conditions, along with pregnant and breastfeeding women and young children, should use it only with medical guidance.