We might be a modern day society, but there’s always something to learn from past civilizations. The Incan Empire flourished in ancient Peru between c. 1400 and 1533 CE as one of the greatest (and largest) empires seen in the world at that time. Numerous legends and studies tell us of the importance the Incans placed upon nature. Not only was nature the central focus of their rituals and traditions, but also of their farming-centered economy. They had great knowledge of the natural world around them, and consequently developed deep spiritual connections with “Mother Earth”, whom they called “Pachamama.”
The Incas commonly used Andean mint, more often known as muña, as it was believed to possess healing properties. And while the Incan civilization eventually crumbled, muña is still popular today. Here are five reasons to keep this high-quality oil handy in your day-to-day life.
- Feeling down in the dumps? Muña’s deep, minty aroma may promote a sense of calm and clear-headedness.
- When consumed in teas, seasonings, or medicinal infusions, muña may help soothe and decongest respiratory system ailments, like coughs.
- Less commonly, Andean mint is said to be used externally for other parts of the body. It’s shown to possibly be beneficial in lessening minor ailments, such as rheumatism, bruising and insect bites. Native Peruvians traditionally used it to heal fractures and dislocations.
- Muña is disliked by insects and vermin - making it a potential home remedy to help rid a small space of pesky ants.
- Muña is believed to have positive effects on the digestive system, which may make it helpful in combating travel sickness, vomiting, diarrhea, constipation and nausea.
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