Mentha: Nutritional and Health Attributes to Treat Various Ailments Including Cardiovascular Diseases

A poor diet, resulting in malnutrition, is a critical challenge that leads to a variety of metabolic disorders, including obesity, diabetes, and cardiovascular diseases. Mentha species are famous as therapeutic herbs and have long served as herbal medicine. Recently, the demand for its products, such as herbal drugs, medicines, and natural herbal formulations, has increased significantly. However, the available literature lacks a thorough overview of Mentha phytochemicals’ effects for reducing malnutritional risks against cardiovascular diseases. In this context, we aimed to review the recent advances of Mentha phytochemicals and future challenges for reducing malnutritional risks in cardiovascular patients. Current studies indicated that Mentha species phytochemicals possess unique antimicrobial, antidiabetic, cytotoxic, and antioxidant potential, which can be used as herbal medicine directly or indirectly (such as food ingredients) and are effective in controlling and curing cardiovascular diseases. The presence of aromatic and flavor compounds of Mentha species greatly enhance the nutritional values of the food. Further interdisciplinary investigations are pivotal to explore main volatile compounds, synergistic actions of phytochemicals, organoleptic effects, and stability of Mentha sp. phytochemicals.


Introduction
Mentha is a perennial, aromatic, and curative herb which has extensive global distribution. Genus Mentha belongs to the family Lamiaceae and comprises 25-30 known species. Mentha grows vigorously at low temperatures but could undergo a wide range of environmental conditions. Normally, it can reach a height of 10 to 20 cm or more. This genus emerged from Midland countries and progressively expanded worldwide by either artificial or natural genesis [1]. They are now predominantly found in Eurasia, Australia' South Africa, and North America. According to various studies, Mentha plants have superabundant ingredients of phenolic compounds distinctly phenols, flavonoids, terpenes, quinines, and polysaccharides [2,3]. These phytochemicals paved the way for significant utilization in the production of pharmaceuticals food and beverage industry [1,4,5]. Numerous species of Mentha are used as spices and for herbal teas. Generally, every part, for instance, the leaves, stems, and roots of Mentha, have been used in tribal and traditional medicines [6,7].

Systematics
Mentha was depicted by Carl Linnaeous from a plant specimen collected from Sweden, who named it M. canadensis L. Bentham pursued Linnaeous in keeping M. canadensis L. as a subglabrous assortment (var. glubrata Benth.) and a villose one (var. villosaBenth.) [39]. However, recent information based on physiological, anatomical, and molecular attributes have demonstrated that Mentha can be grouped into 42 species, hundreds of subspecies, varieties, and cultivars, and 15 hybrids [40]. The scientific classification of Mentha is exceptionally unpredictable and there is no consensus. Mentha is generally classified into five sections, i.e., Eriodontes, Mentha, Preslia, Audibertia, and Pulegium [41]. Recently, Zahra et al. [42] reported that phylogenetically, M. arvensis, M. spicata, and M. × piperita show 98% identity when using matK sequencing.

Essential Oil and the Chemical Composition of the Studied Species of Mentha
In a true sense, essential oils are not really oils; they are in fact volatile chemicals, produced by living organisms, and are mostly extracted by distillation [43,44]. Mentha species contain essential oils with different chemical compositions; for example, in M. pulegium L., natural compounds have been reported to account for 96.9% of the chemical profile, including oxygenated monoterpenes, monoterpenes hydrocarbons, oxygenated sesquiterpenes, and non-terpene hydrocarbons. The essential oils separated from leaves of M. pulegium contain carvone (56.1%), limonene (15.1%,) E-caryophyllene (3.6%,), oleic

Systematics
Mentha was depicted by Carl Linnaeous from a plant specimen collected from Sweden, who named it M. canadensis L. Bentham pursued Linnaeous in keeping M. canadensis L. as a subglabrous assortment (var. glubrata Benth.) and a villose one (var. villosaBenth.) [39]. However, recent information based on physiological, anatomical, and molecular attributes have demonstrated that Mentha can be grouped into 42 species, hundreds of subspecies, varieties, and cultivars, and 15 hybrids [40]. The scientific classification of Mentha is exceptionally unpredictable and there is no consensus. Mentha is generally classified into five sections, i.e., Eriodontes, Mentha, Preslia, Audibertia, and Pulegium [41]. Recently, Zahra et al. [42] reported that phylogenetically, M. arvensis, M. spicata, and M. × piperita show 98% identity when using matK sequencing.

Essential Oil and the Chemical Composition of the Studied Species of Mentha
In a true sense, essential oils are not really oils; they are in fact volatile chemicals, produced by living organisms, and are mostly extracted by distillation [43,44]. Mentha species contain essential oils with different chemical compositions; for example, in M. pulegium L., natural compounds have been reported to account for 96.9% of the chemical profile, including oxygenated monoterpenes, monoterpenes hydrocarbons, oxygenated sesquiterpenes, and non-terpene hydrocarbons. The essential oils separated from leaves of M. pulegium contain carvone (56.1%), limonene (15.1%,) E-caryophyllene (3.6%,), oleic acid (3.2%), and 1,8-cineole (2.4%) [45]. Variations in the essential oil composition and its chemical composition were also observed in some species of Mentha. Major compounds in M. × piperita were observed, including 1-menthone, isomenthone, menthol, menthyl acetate, caryophyllene, and germacrene-D. The study reported a sufficient amount of oil composition, varying from 0.63% germacrene-D to 51% menthol. This indicates that Mentha species contain menthol in maximum quantity [46]. Therefore, the plant has the potential to be used as a medicinal ingredient in the food industry to reduce the risk of cardiovascular diseases. The same study reported 12 essential oil compounds in M. longifolia with different concentrations of oil compounds from April to July. Another study reported pulegone (86.64%) as a major constituent from M. pulegium, possessing antioxidant, quorum sensing, antiinflammatory and antimicrobial activities, indicating that the plant has the potential to reduce the risk of cardiovascular diseases [46]. The chemical composition of Peppermint oil was reported to include oxygen-containing substances, such as menthone (20%), menthol (45-50%), and sesquiterpenes about 3% [47]. It has been reported that M. spicata contains major essential oil compounds, including oxygenated monoterpenes (approximately 67%), sesquiterpenes hydrocarbons (7.5%), monoterpene hydrocarbons (approximately 20%), oxygenated sesquiterpenes (1.2%), and other compounds (1.7%) [47]. Piperitrone (81.18%) and piperitenone oxide (94.8%) were also reported from M. spicata [47]. Detailed information of the essential oils and its composition is provided in Table 1 of some common Mentha species (Table 1). The presence of essential oils indicate that Mentha exhibit high antioxidant, antiinflammatory, and antimicrobial potential, which would help to control the risk of cardiovascular diseases by using Mentha species compounds in food products [48,49]. acid (3.2%), and 1,8-cineole (2.4%) [45]. Variations in the essential oil composition and its chemical composition were also observed in some species of Mentha. Major compounds in M. × piperita were observed, including 1-menthone, isomenthone, menthol, menthyl acetate, caryophyllene, and germacrene-D. The study reported a sufficient amount of oil composition, varying from 0.63% germacrene-D to 51% menthol. This indicates that Mentha species contain menthol in maximum quantity [46]. Therefore, the plant has the potential to be used as a medicinal ingredient in the food industry to reduce the risk of cardiovascular diseases. The same study reported 12 essential oil compounds in M. longifolia with different concentrations of oil compounds from April to July. Another study reported pulegone (86.64%) as a major constituent from M. pulegium, possessing antioxidant, quorum sensing, antiinflammatory and antimicrobial activities, indicating that the plant has the potential to reduce the risk of cardiovascular diseases [46]. The chemical composition of Peppermint oil was reported to include oxygen-containing substances, such as menthone (20%), menthol (45-50%), and sesquiterpenes about 3% [47]. It has been reported that M. spicata contains major essential oil compounds, including oxygenated monoterpenes (approximately 67%), sesquiterpenes hydrocarbons (7.5%), monoterpene hydrocarbons (approximately 20%), oxygenated sesquiterpenes (1.2%), and other compounds (1.7%) [47]. Piperitrone (81.18%) and piperitenone oxide (94.8%) were also reported from M. spicata [47]. Detailed information of the essential oils and its composition is provided in Table 1 of some common Mentha species (Table 1). The presence of essential oils indicate that Mentha exhibit high antioxidant, antiinflammatory, and antimicrobial potential, which would help to control the risk of cardiovascular diseases by using Mentha species compounds in food products [48,49]. Anticancer and analgesic properties [52] Aerial parts Antiinflammatory, antibacterial, neuroprotective, antifatigue, and antioxidant properties [50] Isomenthone 0-6.75 acid (3.2%), and 1,8-cineole (2.4%) [45]. Variations in the essential oil composition and its chemical composition were also observed in some species of Mentha. Major compounds in M. × piperita were observed, including 1-menthone, isomenthone, menthol, menthyl acetate, caryophyllene, and germacrene-D. The study reported a sufficient amount of oil composition, varying from 0.63% germacrene-D to 51% menthol. This indicates that Mentha species contain menthol in maximum quantity [46]. Therefore, the plant has the potential to be used as a medicinal ingredient in the food industry to reduce the risk of cardiovascular diseases. The same study reported 12 essential oil compounds in M. longifolia with different concentrations of oil compounds from April to July. Another study reported pulegone (86.64%) as a major constituent from M. pulegium, possessing antioxidant, quorum sensing, antiinflammatory and antimicrobial activities, indicating that the plant has the potential to reduce the risk of cardiovascular diseases [46]. The chemical composition of Peppermint oil was reported to include oxygen-containing substances, such as menthone (20%), menthol (45-50%), and sesquiterpenes about 3% [47]. It has been reported that M. spicata contains major essential oil compounds, including oxygenated monoterpenes (approximately 67%), sesquiterpenes hydrocarbons (7.5%), monoterpene hydrocarbons (approximately 20%), oxygenated sesquiterpenes (1.2%), and other compounds (1.7%) [47]. Piperitrone (81.18%) and piperitenone oxide (94.8%) were also reported from M. spicata [47]. Detailed information of the essential oils and its composition is provided in Table 1 of some common Mentha species (Table 1). The presence of essential oils indicate that Mentha exhibit high antioxidant, antiinflammatory, and antimicrobial potential, which would help to control the risk of cardiovascular diseases by using Mentha species compounds in food products [48,49]. acid (3.2%), and 1,8-cineole (2.4%) [45]. Variations in the essential oil composition and its chemical composition were also observed in some species of Mentha. Major compounds in M. × piperita were observed, including 1-menthone, isomenthone, menthol, menthyl acetate, caryophyllene, and germacrene-D. The study reported a sufficient amount of oil composition, varying from 0.63% germacrene-D to 51% menthol. This indicates that Mentha species contain menthol in maximum quantity [46]. Therefore, the plant has the potential to be used as a medicinal ingredient in the food industry to reduce the risk of cardiovascular diseases. The same study reported 12 essential oil compounds in M. longifolia with different concentrations of oil compounds from April to July. Another study reported pulegone (86.64%) as a major constituent from M. pulegium, possessing antioxidant, quorum sensing, antiinflammatory and antimicrobial activities, indicating that the plant has the potential to reduce the risk of cardiovascular diseases [46]. The chemical composition of Peppermint oil was reported to include oxygen-containing substances, such as menthone (20%), menthol (45-50%), and sesquiterpenes about 3% [47]. It has been reported that M. spicata contains major essential oil compounds, including oxygenated monoterpenes (approximately 67%), sesquiterpenes hydrocarbons (7.5%), monoterpene hydrocarbons (approximately 20%), oxygenated sesquiterpenes (1.2%), and other compounds (1.7%) [47]. Piperitrone (81.18%) and piperitenone oxide (94.8%) were also reported from M. spicata [47]. Detailed information of the essential oils and its composition is provided in Table 1 of some common Mentha species (Table 1). The presence of essential oils indicate that Mentha exhibit high antioxidant, antiinflammatory, and antimicrobial potential, which would help to control the risk of cardiovascular diseases by using Mentha species compounds in food products [48,49]. Anticancer and analgesic properties [52] Aerial parts Antitumor, neuroprotective, antifatigue, and antioxidant properties [51] Menthyl acetate 0.72-6.89 acid (3.2%), and 1,8-cineole (2.4%) [45]. Variations in the essential oil composition and its chemical composition were also observed in some species of Mentha. Major compounds in M. × piperita were observed, including 1-menthone, isomenthone, menthol, menthyl acetate, caryophyllene, and germacrene-D. The study reported a sufficient amount of oil composition, varying from 0.63% germacrene-D to 51% menthol. This indicates that Mentha species contain menthol in maximum quantity [46]. Therefore, the plant has the potential to be used as a medicinal ingredient in the food industry to reduce the risk of cardiovascular diseases. The same study reported 12 essential oil compounds in M. longifolia with different concentrations of oil compounds from April to July. Another study reported pulegone (86.64%) as a major constituent from M. pulegium, possessing antioxidant, quorum sensing, antiinflammatory and antimicrobial activities, indicating that the plant has the potential to reduce the risk of cardiovascular diseases [46]. The chemical composition of Peppermint oil was reported to include oxygen-containing substances, such as menthone (20%), menthol (45-50%), and sesquiterpenes about 3% [47]. It has been reported that M. spicata contains major essential oil compounds, including oxygenated monoterpenes (approximately 67%), sesquiterpenes hydrocarbons (7.5%), monoterpene hydrocarbons (approximately 20%), oxygenated sesquiterpenes (1.2%), and other compounds (1.7%) [47]. Piperitrone (81.18%) and piperitenone oxide (94.8%) were also reported from M. spicata [47]. Detailed information of the essential oils and its composition is provided in Table 1 of some common Mentha species ( Table 1). The presence of essential oils indicate that Mentha exhibit high antioxidant, antiinflammatory, and antimicrobial potential, which would help to control the risk of cardiovascular diseases by using Mentha species compounds in food products [48,49]. acid (3.2%), and 1,8-cineole (2.4%) [45]. Variations in the essential oil composition and its chemical composition were also observed in some species of Mentha. Major compounds in M. × piperita were observed, including 1-menthone, isomenthone, menthol, menthyl acetate, caryophyllene, and germacrene-D. The study reported a sufficient amount of oil composition, varying from 0.63% germacrene-D to 51% menthol. This indicates that Mentha species contain menthol in maximum quantity [46]. Therefore, the plant has the potential to be used as a medicinal ingredient in the food industry to reduce the risk of cardiovascular diseases. The same study reported 12 essential oil compounds in M. longifolia with different concentrations of oil compounds from April to July. Another study reported pulegone (86.64%) as a major constituent from M. pulegium, possessing antioxidant, quorum sensing, antiinflammatory and antimicrobial activities, indicating that the plant has the potential to reduce the risk of cardiovascular diseases [46]. The chemical composition of Peppermint oil was reported to include oxygen-containing substances, such as menthone (20%), menthol (45-50%), and sesquiterpenes about 3% [47]. It has been reported that M. spicata contains major essential oil compounds, including oxygenated monoterpenes (approximately 67%), sesquiterpenes hydrocarbons (7.5%), monoterpene hydrocarbons (approximately 20%), oxygenated sesquiterpenes (1.2%), and other compounds (1.7%) [47]. Piperitrone (81.18%) and piperitenone oxide (94.8%) were also reported from M. spicata [47]. Detailed information of the essential oils and its composition is provided in Table 1 of some common Mentha species ( Table 1). The presence of essential oils indicate that Mentha exhibit high antioxidant, antiinflammatory, and antimicrobial potential, which would help to control the risk of cardiovascular diseases by using Mentha species compounds in food products [48,49]. Antimicrobial, antioxidant, diuretic, analgesic, and antiseptic properties [57] Aerial parts Cytotoxicity and anticancer properties [54] α-Terpineol 0-0.28 Antimicrobial, antioxidant, diuretic, analgesic, and antiseptic properties [57] Aerial parts Anticancer properties [56]   The essential oils of Mentha are using in aromatherapy. Many food and beverages industries are using Mentha as food additive and flavoring agent. Due to aromatic compounds and secondary metabolites, fresh or dried leaves of Mentha are used in chewing tobacco, confectionaries, analgesic balm, perfumes, candies, and the tobacco industry [66]. Some researchers found potential antidiabetic effects of Mentha [67,68]. The use of Mentha in food industry will open new avenues for epidemiologists to control diabetes and cardiovascular diseases.

Health Benefits of Mentha
Mentha is a much desired and demanded herb due to its medicinal and therapeutic use. The use of Mentha species has been reported in China since the rule of Ming [69]. Mentha became an official item of Materia medical in London Pharmacopeia [70]. In the 18th century, it was commonly used as a medicinal herb [71,72]. Various health benefits of Mentha species have been reported [50,64]. Mentha species have shown analgesic activity during in vivo experiments on mice [61]. Mentha species showed antibacterial and antifungal activities against different bacterial and fungal strains [73]. Mentha species have traditionally used against various diseases and have the potential to be used for cardiovascular diseases [68]. Several studies have indicated that Mentha species contain free radical species and nonradical species, e.g., hydrogen peroxide, which is harmful for molecules of microbes, such as proteins, lipids, nucleic acids, and carbohydrates. Extracts and Leaves Antioxidant, antidiabetic, dermatoprotective, antidermatophyte, and antibacterial properties [3] Terpinen-4-ol 08.72 The essential oils of Mentha are using in aromatherapy. Many food and beverages industries are using Mentha as food additive and flavoring agent. Due to aromatic compounds and secondary metabolites, fresh or dried leaves of Mentha are used in chewing tobacco, confectionaries, analgesic balm, perfumes, candies, and the tobacco industry [66]. Some researchers found potential antidiabetic effects of Mentha [67,68]. The use of Mentha in food industry will open new avenues for epidemiologists to control diabetes and cardiovascular diseases.

Health Benefits of Mentha
Mentha is a much desired and demanded herb due to its medicinal and therapeutic use. The use of Mentha species has been reported in China since the rule of Ming [69]. Mentha became an official item of Materia medical in London Pharmacopeia [70]. In the 18th century, it was commonly used as a medicinal herb [71,72]. Various health benefits of Mentha species have been reported [50,64]. Mentha species have shown analgesic activity during in vivo experiments on mice [61]. Mentha species showed antibacterial and antifungal activities against different bacterial and fungal strains [73]. Mentha species have traditionally used against various diseases and have the potential to be used for cardiovascular diseases [68]. Several studies have indicated that Mentha species contain free radical species and nonradical species, e.g., hydrogen peroxide, which is harmful for molecules of microbes, such as proteins, lipids, nucleic acids, and carbohydrates. Extracts and essential oils of Mentha species have shown several health benefits (Figure 2) [74,75].
The essential oils of Mentha are using in aromatherapy. Many food and beverages industries are using Mentha as food additive and flavoring agent. Due to aromatic compounds and secondary metabolites, fresh or dried leaves of Mentha are used in chewing tobacco, confectionaries, analgesic balm, perfumes, candies, and the tobacco industry [66]. Some researchers found potential antidiabetic effects of Mentha [67,68]. The use of Mentha in food industry will open new avenues for epidemiologists to control diabetes and cardiovascular diseases.

Health Benefits of Mentha
Mentha is a much desired and demanded herb due to its medicinal and therapeutic use. The use of Mentha species has been reported in China since the rule of Ming [69]. Mentha became an official item of Materia medical in London Pharmacopeia [70]. In the 18th century, it was commonly used as a medicinal herb [71,72]. Various health benefits of Mentha species have been reported [50,64]. Mentha species have shown analgesic activity during in vivo experiments on mice [61]. Mentha species showed antibacterial and antifungal activities against different bacterial and fungal strains [73]. Mentha species have traditionally used against various diseases and have the potential to be used for cardiovascular diseases [68]. Several studies have indicated that Mentha species contain free radical species and nonradical species, e.g., hydrogen peroxide, which is harmful for molecules of Some studies found that mint enable lungs surfactants to filter the air and perform better pulmonary action. Methanol from the mint stimulates respiratory muscle strength and increases the end tidal oxygen rate in the human body [76,77]. Mentha plants contain constituents with cytotoxic properties, and could be used in developing anticancer agents; for example, M. longifolia, M. arvensis, and M. × piperita were found to possess cytotoxic activity against breast cancer in humans [78,79] and human laryngeal epidermoid carcinoma [80]. The direct application of Mentha on the skin shows excellent analgesic activity, producing a cooling effect on the skin. Mint oil stimulates blood receptors on the skin and expands blood vessels, resulting in a cold sensation and relaxation [69]. Mentha sp. possesses various secondary metabolites which are useful against different disorders (Table  1). These can be used in the food industry to reduce malnutritional risks in diabetic and cardiovascular patients.

Biological Activities of Mentha
A detailed survey of the biological activities of Mentha is a prerequisite to explore its potential for the treatment of diseases.

Antimicrobial Activity of Mentha
Mentha exhibits a strong antimicrobial potential, which is why it is considered as one of the most industrially, medicinally, and economically important plant genera. Mentha has shown a significant antibacterial resistance against the epidemic bacterium Chlamydia. Additionally, Mentha helps fight pneumoniae associated with respiratory disease [81]. A study conducted by Hussain et al. [82] reported a strong antibacterial potential of various Mentha species. Another study found Mentha extracts to have an effective inhibition activity against various strains of bacteria, including Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Shigella flexineri, Klebsellia pneumoniae, and Styphylococcus aureus (do Nascimento, Rodrigues, Campos, & da Costa, 2009). Mimica-Dukić et al. [83] isolated secondary metabolites from Mentha and tested them against Escherichia coli and Shigella sonei; they showed significant antibacterial activity. Furthermore, using Candida albicans and Trychophython tonsurans, studies have shown that Mentha extracts have strong antifungal properties. Another study by López et al. [84] reported the potential of Mentha extracts against Rhizopus 9tolonifera. Apart from this, various species of Mentha have been shown to possess potential antimicrobial activity against resistant pathogens ( Table 2), indicating that metabolites of Mentha species are highly active against pathogenic organisms. The antimicrobial mechanism of Some studies found that mint enable lungs surfactants to filter the air and perform better pulmonary action. Methanol from the mint stimulates respiratory muscle strength and increases the end tidal oxygen rate in the human body [76,77]. Mentha plants contain constituents with cytotoxic properties, and could be used in developing anticancer agents; for example, M. longifolia, M. arvensis, and M. × piperita were found to possess cytotoxic activity against breast cancer in humans [78,79] and human laryngeal epidermoid carcinoma [80]. The direct application of Mentha on the skin shows excellent analgesic activity, producing a cooling effect on the skin. Mint oil stimulates blood receptors on the skin and expands blood vessels, resulting in a cold sensation and relaxation [69]. Mentha sp. possesses various secondary metabolites which are useful against different disorders (Table 1). These can be used in the food industry to reduce malnutritional risks in diabetic and cardiovascular patients.

Biological Activities of Mentha
A detailed survey of the biological activities of Mentha is a prerequisite to explore its potential for the treatment of diseases.

Antimicrobial Activity of Mentha
Mentha exhibits a strong antimicrobial potential, which is why it is considered as one of the most industrially, medicinally, and economically important plant genera. Mentha has shown a significant antibacterial resistance against the epidemic bacterium Chlamydia. Additionally, Mentha helps fight pneumoniae associated with respiratory disease [81]. A study conducted by Hussain et al. [82] reported a strong antibacterial potential of various Mentha species. Another study found Mentha extracts to have an effective inhibition activity against various strains of bacteria, including Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Shigella flexineri, Klebsellia pneumoniae, and Styphylococcus aureus (do Nascimento, Rodrigues, Campos, & da Costa, 2009). Mimica-Dukić et al. [83] isolated secondary metabolites from Mentha and tested them against Escherichia coli and Shigella sonei; they showed significant antibacterial activity. Furthermore, using Candida albicans and Trychophython tonsurans, studies have shown that Mentha extracts have strong antifungal properties. Another study by López et al. [84] reported the potential of Mentha extracts against Rhizopus tolonifera. Apart from this, various species of Mentha have been shown to possess potential antimicrobial activity against resistant pathogens ( Table 2), indicating that metabolites of Mentha species are highly active against pathogenic organisms. The antimicrobial mechanism of Mentha extracts involve the production of antioxidant agents which disrupt the microbial membrane, and subsequently, damage the cellular organelles. The strong antimicrobial potential of Mentha extracts proved it as a highly essential preservative in the food industry. Further studies are required to find which kinds of extracts and which elements are important for the production of health-oriented food.

Antioxidant Activity of Mentha
The antioxidant activity of the plants and its extracts is of great importance in fundamental science and applied science. Various species of Mentha have shown significant antioxidant activity both in vitro and in vivo. One study reported on the antioxidant activity of M. longifolia oil, with an IC 50 value of 0.659 mL/mL of solution [93]. The antioxidant activity of the five Mentha species, including M. longifolia, M. × piperita, M. spicata, M. rotundifolia, and M. pulegium, was tested by diphenylpicrylhydrazyl (DPPH) and 2,2azinobis (3 ethylbenzothiazoline 6 sulfunic acid) radical (ABTS0+). This study revealed that M. × piperita exhibits the most strongest DPPH scavenging activity [94]. The methanolic extracts of six Mentha species, which included M. villosa Huds., M. arvensis, M. pulegium, M. × piperita, M. rotundifolia (L) Huds., and M. aquatica, were tested. The overall results showed extraordinary antioxidant activity, but M. aquatica showed the highest antioxidant potential, with an IC 50 value of 7.50 µg/mL [95]. Ethanolic extract of M. pulegium improved the catalase, glutathione, and peroxidase level after induced toxicity of CCI4 intraperitoneal injection in rats [96]. Another study reported on the antioxidant potential of M. × piperita by examining various extracts, such as chloroform, ethanol, and aqueous and essential oils, showing 73 to 91% antioxidant capacity at 734 nm and 70.3 to 92.6% free radical scavenging activity [66]. These findings suggest that species of Mentha exhibit significant antioxidant potential, and therefore, they are ideal sources for the medicine and food industry to fight cardiovascular diseases.

Antidiabetic Activity of Mentha
Diabetes is one of the main factors of cardiovascular diseases. Therefore, potential resources of a natural origin are required to help in the reduction of diabetic and cardiovascular diseases. Mentha oils and extracts exhibit a strong antidiabetic potential, as reported by several researchers. The essential oil of M. virdis was assessed by the inhibition of α-glucosidase and α-amylase. The results showed that essential oils of M. virdis exhibit IC 50 = 101.72 ± 1.86 µg/mL inhibitory potential against α-amylase and IC 50 = 86.93 ± 2.43 µg/mL against α-glucosidase [3]. Antidiabetic activity of M. arvensis L. was determined by in vitro and in vivo experiments in rats. The methanolic extract of M. arvensis revealed more than 50% α-amylase and more than 68% α-glucosidase inhibition. Additionally, in rats, significant postprandial hyperglycemia inhibition was observed [97]. Essential oils of M. suaveolens were found to be very active against α-glucosidase and α-amylase, indicating an inhibitory potential of IC 50 141.16 ± 0.2 and 94.30 ± 0.06 µg/mL, respectively [64]. Bayani et al. [98] reported on the antidiabetic effect of aqueous extract prepared from M. spicata leaves. The LD 50 of the extract was more than 1500 mg/kg. The application of the extract showed a significant reduction in cholesterol, low density lipoprotein cholesterol, and triglyceride in diabetic rats as compared to commercially available antidiabetic drug (glebenclamide), indicating that the plant extract possesses a high antidiabetic activity. Thus, it is clear that the use Mentha species directly or indirectly can help to reduce the risk of diabetes, and ultimately, reduce the risk of cardiovascular diseases. Based on the literature review, further research is required to screen Mentha sp. against specific diseases. Additionally, the search for medicinally important compounds in Mentha extracts is also necessary if Mentha is to be used as a source of producing and preserving health-oriented food to control diabetes and cardiovascular diseases.

Cardioprotective Potential of Mentha by Its Antiinflammatory Effect
The Mentha species that exhibit effective antioxidant compounds (Polyphenolic) play an important role in reducing the risk of cardiovascular diseases by the suppression of inflammation. One of the species of Mentha genus, M. arvensis, has shown a cardioprotective potential via inhibition of inflammation [99]. Another species, M. × piperita, revealed antiinflammatory activity against chronic and acute inflammation [100]. The mechanism involves suppression of tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α), fibroblast growth factor-2 (FGF-2), and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) [101]. As cardiovascular patients have high inflammation, the inflammatory activity of M. × piperita may be responsible for reducing risks of cardiovascular diseases. The cardiovascular effects of M. × piperita were also reported by Badal et al. [102]. Another species of Mentha genus, M. pulegium, plays role in the reduction of IL-6, TNF-α, and MCP-1 secretion in murine RAW 264.7 macrophages [103,104]. Moreover, other biological properties, such as the antioxidant, cytotoxic, antidiabetic, and antimicrobial potential of Mentha, also improve the cardioprotective potential of Mentha. Adding Mentha compounds and extracts in food products can facilitate the design of functional foods possessing beneficial health effects.

Mechanism of Active Compounds with Cardioprotective Effects
Mentha plants possess a variety of bioactive compounds with cardioprotective and other medicinal properties, among them carvacrol, rosmarinic acid, quercetin, baicalein, and apigenin. These compounds have cardioprotective effects by regulating numerous molecules, such as growth factors, enzymes, kinases, inflammatory molecules, transcriptional factors, apoptosis, etc. (Figure 3). Menthol from M. arvensis exhibits activity against ischemic heart disease [105]. Phenolic compound quercetin extracted from the leaves of M. pulegium was reported to have cardioprotective effects [106]. Similarly, Pulegone and menthofuran isolated from M. longifolia and M. aquatica possess antiinflammatory effects, which eventually help in reducing the risk of different diseases in the body [107]. Studies also revealed various functions of Mentha species exhibiting cardioprotective effects, decreased toxicity, antiarrhythmic effects, heart rate normalization, and antihypersensitive effects (Table 3) [108][109][110][111].
Molecules 2022, 27, x FOR PEER REVIEW 13 of 21 [115]. Quercetin also showed in vitro and in vivo cardioprotection activities. It inhibits MAPK and focal adhesion kinase activities regulated by thrombin in endothelial cells, leading to cardioprotection [116]. Baicalein promotes the downregulation of the phosphorylation of Ca 2+ /calmodulin-dependent protein kinase II (CaMKII) with the expression of Na + /Ca 2+ exchangers (NCX1), which leads to protection from cardiovascular disorders [117]. Mentha species possess numerous bioactive compounds that facilitate cardioprotection from lethal disorders ( Table 2). The isolation and applications of these bioactive compounds can facilitate the food industry in the production of functional foods that can protect from cardiovascular disorders.   Carvacrol is a phytochemical, also reported from Mentha longifolia, which exhibits a cardioprotective effect through various mechanisms. It suppresses the myocardial ischemic damage in rats of acute myocardial infarction. The compound reduces the infarct size and myocardial enzymes, such as lactate dehydrogenase, creatine kinase, and cardiac troponin T [105]. Carvacrol also increases activities of antioxidant enzymes, including glutathione peroxidase, glutathione, and superoxide dismutase, and reduces malondialdehydes, which facilitate heart protection from cardiac disorders. Carvacrol also promotes the activation of the Akt/eNOS pathway in cardiomyocytes, helping in cardioprotection [112].
Rosmarinic acid shows cardioprotection effects through the regulation of antioxidant enzymes and gene expression of sarcoplasmic reticulum Ca 2+ ATPase 2 (SERCA 2 ) and ryandodine receptor-2 (RyR 2 ), which play a role in Ca 2+ homeostasis [113]. Another study revealed that rosmarinic acid provides protection against cardiac fibrosis through the regulation of AMPKα, nuclear translocation of Smad3, and suppression of phosphorylation. It also induces peroxisome proliferator-activated receptors (PPAR-γ) to constrict cardiac fibrosis [114]. Apigenin present in Mentha tissues facilitate cardiac protection by regulating PI3K/AKT/mTOR pathway and inhibited adriamycin-induced cardiotoxicity in rats [115]. Quercetin also showed in vitro and in vivo cardioprotection activities. It inhibits MAPK and focal adhesion kinase activities regulated by thrombin in endothelial cells, leading to cardioprotection [116]. Baicalein promotes the downregulation of the phosphorylation of Ca 2+ /calmodulin-dependent protein kinase II (CaMKII) with the expression of Na + /Ca 2+ exchangers (NCX1), which leads to protection from cardiovascular disorders [117]. Mentha species possess numerous bioactive compounds that facilitate cardioprotection from lethal disorders ( Table 2). The isolation and applications of these bioactive compounds can facilitate the food industry in the production of functional foods that can protect from cardiovascular disorders. Table 3. Cardioprotecting effects of active constituents of Mentha species.

Utility of Mentha in Food Industry
Mentha is a widely cultivated crop, and several species are used in industry. Currently, phytochemicals of Mentha plants are used to improve the flavor in food beverages. Mint has different flavors and is the third most demanded flavor on the world food market [123].
Mentha oils are commonly connected with flavors used in chewing gums and dental pastes; however, they have many other flavors, which are used in the food industry, ranging from candies, dairy products, sauces, and alcoholic and nonalcoholic beverages [124]. Mentha plants are also used to preserve, improve the quality, and extend the life of food.
The peppermint flavor of Mentha is basically menthol. Menthol causes a cooling effect in the oral cavity and activates cold-sensitive receptors [125]. This molecule also has a sensation of bitterness, so it stimulates both taste and aroma receptors. It releases its minty flavor to food products and other daily life essentials, e.g., tooth paste and mouth fresheners, causing a physiological cooling effect [126]. The essential oils of Mentha are used in aromatherapy. Many food and beverages industries use fermented Mentha as a flavoring agent. Due to aromatic compounds and secondary metabolites, fresh or dried leaves of Mentha are used in the chewing tobacco, confectionaries, analgesic balm, perfumes, candies, and tobacco industries [127]. Large-scale cultivation, isolation, and characterizations can facilitate the food industry to utilize Mentha extracts for different purposes (Figure 4). However, there are still significant knowledge gaps, especially regarding the differing potential of the various composition extracts of different plants; these gaps should be filled to ensure cost effective, compatible ways for the production of foods that include Mentha. It is important to compare extracts of Mentha with other aromatic and medicinal plant extracts, in order to determine which plant extracts are significant for the herbal medicine industry and nutraceutical industries.

Current Challenges and Implementations
Many mint derivatives and their active compounds have been approved by th ropean commission and the United States Food and Drug Administration for their posed used as flavoring agents in food products. Plant extracts have numerous int and extrinsic challenges, which has hindered their applications in the food ind [128,129]. The exiguity of raw materials, chemotypic diversity, inconsistent efficacy explored molecular mechanism of action, adverse effects on food taste, low water so ity, high cost, and threat to biodiversity loss are some leading challenges to Mentha u the food industry [130]. Moreover, plant collection and identification are difficult d the close resemblance of different Mentha species, in addition to the deficiency in the ity assessment of raw materials. Moreover, there is a scarcity in the quantity of ex from the raw materials of Mentha for industrial applications. After mixing with a matrix, i.e., fat, protein, carbohydrates, salt contents, pH, moisture, etc., together wi trinsic factors (temperature, gaseous composition, and microbial diversity), the antim bial potential of Mentha extracts is reduced [131]. The excessive aroma present in extracts may negatively influence the organoleptic properties (flavor, color, taste, an ture) of food items, leading to a reduction in consumer demand [132]. Due to the a mentioned challenges, the interest in plant-based preservatives has been gradually d ing in the past decade.

Conclusions and Future Perspective
Mentha species and their compounds have long been used in folk medicines a flavoring agents. The plants and their extracts are used against digestive, nausea, fe headache, tumors, and skin diseases. Numerous essential oils and phytochemicals a ported from Mentha species, which possess different biological activities. These ess oils and their antioxidant, antidiabetic, and antimicrobial potential demonstrate that tha species could be an extraordinary source for the prevention of cardiovascular dise In order to utilize plant extracts to their complete application, there are several ave

Current Challenges and Implementations
Many mint derivatives and their active compounds have been approved by the European commission and the United States Food and Drug Administration for their proposed used as flavoring agents in food products. Plant extracts have numerous intrinsic and extrinsic challenges, which has hindered their applications in the food industry [128,129]. The exiguity of raw materials, chemotypic diversity, inconsistent efficacy, unexplored molecular mechanism of action, adverse effects on food taste, low water solubility, high cost, and threat to biodiversity loss are some leading challenges to Mentha use in the food industry [130]. Moreover, plant collection and identification are difficult due to the close resemblance of different Mentha species, in addition to the deficiency in the quality assessment of raw materials. Moreover, there is a scarcity in the quantity of extracts from the raw materials of Mentha for industrial applications. After mixing with a food matrix, i.e., fat, protein, carbohydrates, salt contents, pH, moisture, etc., together with extrinsic factors (temperature, gaseous composition, and microbial diversity), the antimicrobial potential of Mentha extracts is reduced [131]. The excessive aroma present in plant extracts may negatively influence the organoleptic properties (flavor, color, taste, and texture) of food items, leading to a reduction in consumer demand [132]. Due to the abovementioned challenges, the interest in plant-based preservatives has been gradually declining in the past decade.

Conclusions and Future Perspective
Mentha species and their compounds have long been used in folk medicines and as flavoring agents. The plants and their extracts are used against digestive, nausea, fevers, headache, tumors, and skin diseases. Numerous essential oils and phytochemicals are reported from Mentha species, which possess different biological activities. These essential oils and their antioxidant, antidiabetic, and antimicrobial potential demonstrate that Mentha species could be an extraordinary source for the prevention of cardiovascular diseases. In order to utilize plant extracts to their complete application, there are several avenues that must be explored further. First, future research should focus on the modes of action of the natural compounds present in the extracts. Second, the metabolic pathways which help keep the food taste and aroma alive should be identified. These are important research questions to explore the core substances necessary for the control of diabetes and cardiovascular diseases via Mentha species compounds in food or in medicine. Advances in the research of medicinal plants will help in determining the quantity and quality of plant extracts required as food additives and preservatives against a specific disease. A final future potential for Mentha extracts does not lie in their potential medicinal values directly, but in their possible use as synergist compounds and processing mechanisms. The applications of natural antidiabetic and cardioprotective agents are likely to grow steadily in the future because of consumer demand for food containing naturally derived preservatives with good taste and aroma, such as Mentha.