Korean Mint (Agastache rugosa)

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Botanical Information

• Family: Lamiaceae
• Common Names: Korean Mint, Wrinkled Giant Hyssop
• Parts Used: Leaves, flowers

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Description

Agastache rugosa is a perennial herb native to East Asia, particularly China and Korea. With its aromatic leaves and striking purple flowers, it is highly valued in traditional Chinese medicine for its digestive, respiratory, and calming effects.

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Historical and Traditional Uses

• Used in traditional Chinese medicine (as Huò Xiāng) to treat indigestion, nausea, and vomiting.
• Employed to relieve symptoms of colds, flu, and respiratory infections.
• Used in herbal teas and culinary preparations for its calming and digestive properties.

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Constituents

• Essential oils (methyl chavicol, linalool)
• Flavonoids
• Polyphenols
• Tannins
• Saponins

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Actions

• Carminative (relieves gas)
• Antimicrobial
• Antispasmodic
• Anti-inflammatory
• Diaphoretic (promotes sweating)
• Nervine (calms the nervous system)

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Medicinal Uses

1. Digestive Health:
Korean mint is traditionally used to treat nausea, bloating, indigestion, and diarrhea. It helps stimulate digestion and relieve gastrointestinal discomfort.

2. Respiratory Support:
With its antimicrobial and expectorant properties, the herb is effective for colds, coughs, and sinus infections.

3. Calming the Nervous System:
The herb’s mild sedative effect helps ease anxiety, stress, and insomnia when taken as a tea.

4. Antimicrobial and Antifungal:
Its essential oils have shown efficacy against a range of bacteria and fungi, making it useful for infections.

5. Diaphoretic Action:
Korean mint promotes sweating, helping to reduce fevers and cleanse the body during colds and flu.

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Preparation and Dosage

Infusion (Tea):

• 1-2 tsp of dried leaves or flowers per cup of boiling water. Steep for 10-15 minutes and drink 1-3 times daily.

Tincture:

• 2-5 ml of tincture taken 2-3 times daily.

Poultice:

• Mash fresh leaves and apply externally to soothe insect bites or minor wounds.

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Precautions and Contraindications

• Pregnancy and Lactation: Generally considered safe in moderate amounts, but consult a healthcare provider before use.
• Allergic Reactions: Rare, but possible in sensitive individuals.

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Energetics (Traditional Medicine Perspectives)

• Traditional Chinese Medicine: Balances the spleen and stomach meridians, clears dampness, and harmonizes digestion.
• Ayurvedic: Calming to excess vata and pitta.

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Combinations

• For Digestive Health: Combine with ginger and peppermint.
• For Respiratory Support: Combine with mullein and thyme.
• For Calming Effects: Combine with lemon balm and chamomile.

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Harvesting and Storage

• Harvesting: Harvest leaves and flowers during the growing season when the plant is in full bloom.
• Drying: Dry materials in a well-ventilated area away from direct sunlight.
• Storage: Store dried leaves and flowers in an airtight container in a cool, dark place.

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Modern Research

Studies highlight its antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and digestive-supporting properties. Ongoing research is exploring its potential role in managing gastrointestinal infections and respiratory conditions.

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Agastache rugosa remains a valued herb in traditional and modern herbal medicine, offering benefits for digestion, respiratory health, and relaxation.