May Mask Bad Breath

When attempting to prevent or treat bad breath, some people turn to mint-flavored chewing gum and breath mints. Most of these products, according to experts, can hide bad breath for a few hours. They don't eliminate the germs or other substances that cause bad breath in the first place; they just mask it. On the other hand, since test-tube studies have emphasized the antibacterial benefits of peppermint oil, consuming peppermint tea and chewing on fresh leaves may be able to both conceal bad breath and kill bacteria.

Research led by Prof. Ron Eccles at the University of Wales, UK, states that menthol, present in mint, may help in relieving nasal congestion. It might also be very effective in clearing up congestion of the throat, bronchi, and lungs, which might give relief from respiratory disorders that often result from asthma and common colds.