Pudina is a staple in Indian kitchens. From refreshing chutneys and raitas to cooling summer drinks, this fragrant herb is used in countless recipes. But pudina is not just about adding flavor and freshness to food. It has also been traditionally used for skincare, digestion, fresh breath and more.

So, what is pudina called in English? It is commonly known as mint. Its scientific name is Mentha, and there are several varieties of mint, including spearmint, peppermint and field mint.

Here are five interesting ways mint is used beyond simply adding it to your meals.

1. Mint for Skin Care

Mint is known for its cooling and refreshing properties, which is why it is often used in traditional skincare remedies. Fresh mint leaves can be crushed and mixed with ingredients such as honey or yogurt to make a simple homemade face pack.

Some people also use mint preparations to soothe the feeling of irritation and discomfort caused by heat. However, it is always advisable to do a patch test before applying any homemade mixture to your face.

2. May Help With Digestive Discomfort

Mint has traditionally been used to support digestion and provide relief from occasional stomach discomfort.

One simple preparation is to boil 8–10 fresh mint leaves in a cup of water and drink the infusion while it is warm. Mint is also commonly combined with lemon and black salt in refreshing digestive drinks.

3. A Traditional Remedy for Headaches

The refreshing aroma of mint may help you feel more comfortable when dealing with occasional headaches, particularly those associated with heat or tension.

Fresh mint leaves can be crushed and their aroma inhaled. Some traditional remedies also involve applying a mint-based paste to the forehead.

If headaches are frequent, severe or unusual, however, it is important to consult a healthcare professional rather than relying only on home remedies.

4. Helps Freshen Breath

One of the easiest uses of mint is to freshen your breath. The strong, refreshing aroma of mint can temporarily mask unpleasant odors.

Fresh mint leaves can be chewed directly, while mint-infused water can also be used as a simple mouth rinse. If bad breath continues regularly, it may be related to dental or gum problems and should be checked by a dentist.

5. Used for Relief From Cold and Nasal Congestion

Mint, particularly varieties containing menthol, is commonly associated with a cooling sensation that can make breathing feel more comfortable when you have a stuffy nose.

Mint leaves are traditionally added to hot water for steam inhalation. However, extreme caution is necessary with hot steam because it can cause burns. Steam inhalation should be especially avoided or carefully supervised for young children.

Mint Is More Than Just a Chutney Ingredient

From its refreshing aroma to its traditional uses in skincare and digestive remedies, mint has long been valued beyond the kitchen. While many of these uses come from traditional practices and some have limited scientific evidence, pudina remains one of the most versatile and popular herbs used in Indian households.