HISTORY:
The refreshing taste and smell of this popular perennial herb has been enjoyed by people the world over for thousands of years. We know from records that the ancient Chinese, Japanese, Egyptians, Greeks and Romans all grew mint. It has been found in tombs that date as far back as 3000 B.C., and it is known that Jews used mint to cleanse and perfume the air of synagogues.
There are about thirty species of mint, peppermint being one. Until about the 17th century all the different species were used in the same way. Today in the West, peppermint is preferred for medicinal uses, in China Field Mint is used.
Peppermint is a cross between spearmint and watermint and its characteristic smell is de to a high menthol content.
Mint has been used for medicinal purposes for at least 2000 years. In Roman times garlands of mint were worn to stimulate the brain. In fact the name 'mint' comes from the Latin 'mente' which means 'thought'. It was also used through the ages as an appetite stimulant and digestive aid.
PROPAGATION & CULTIVATION:
Peppermint can be can be cultivated easily by cuttings, in fact, it will propagate by itself quite rapidly and new plants can simply be transplanted as required.
Peppermint is a perennial grown in full sun and is tolerant of most soil types.
HARVESTING & STORING:
Leaves can be picked and used immediately or they can be dried and stored. Leaves are best picked just before flowering as the essential oil content is higher.
USES:
Not only is mint used in many recipes, it is also used in flavouring for toothpaste, antacids and candies. While fresh mint is best for cooking, dried mint will retain many of it’s oils and can be substituted for fresh.
Actions: Digestive tonic, antispasmodic, bile stimulant, carminative.
Used in: Infusions, tinctures, lotions, capsules, steam inhalations, massage rubs, compresses.
Parts Used: Essential oil, Aerial parts.
Note: Avoid excessive or prolonged use. Not suitable for children under 4yrs.
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