Mint

Mint (Bo He): An Acrid Herb for Releasing the Exterior, Clearing Heat, and Benefiting the Throat

Introduction

Mint, known as Bo He (薄荷) in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), is acrid, aromatic, and cool. It is valued for dispersing wind-heat, clearing the head and eyes, and soothing the throat. Mint is especially used for fever, headache, red eyes, sore throat, and early-stage colds. With its refreshing nature, it also supports liver qi flow and helps relieve stress.

What Is Mint?

Bo He comes from the aerial parts of Mentha haplocalyx and related mint species, harvested when flowering. In TCM, it is classified as acrid and cool, entering the Lung and Liver meridians. Its light, dispersing quality makes it effective for releasing the exterior in wind-heat patterns and for venting rashes.

Health Benefits of Mint

Disperses wind-heat – Relieves fever, headache, and sore throat.

Clears head and eyes – Helps with red eyes, dizziness, and blurred vision.

Benefits the throat – Eases hoarseness and throat discomfort.

Promotes eruption of rashes – Used in measles or early rash stages.

Moves Liver qi – Relieves stress, irritability, and chest or flank distention.

How to Use Mint

Tea – Steeped in hot water for colds, sore throat, or stress relief.

Decoction – Added at the end of boiling to preserve its aromatic oils.

Culinary use – Fresh leaves used in soups, porridges, or as garnish.

Powder – Sometimes used in herbal blends for throat and head conditions.

Where to Buy Mint

TCM shops – Available dried or as part of herbal formulas.

Herbal suppliers – Sold online in bulk, tea bags, or extracts.

Grocery stores – Fresh mint leaves are widely available for food and drink use.

Look for: fragrant, bright green leaves when fresh, or crisp dried leaves with strong aroma.

Are There Any Side Effects?

Mint is generally safe, but excessive use may cause digestive upset or reduce lactation in nursing mothers. Sensitive individuals may experience mild allergic reactions.

Conclusion

Mint (Bo He) is an acrid, cool herb that disperses wind-heat, clears the head and eyes, benefits the throat, and supports qi flow. Refreshing and versatile, it is one of the most commonly used herbs in both TCM and daily life.

FAQ

Can mint help with sore throat? – Yes, it clears heat and benefits the throat, easing discomfort.

Is it safe for children? – Yes, in small amounts, mint is safe and often used for colds and fever.

Does it affect breastfeeding? – Yes, excessive mint may reduce lactation, so nursing mothers should use caution.