Herb Spotlight - Mints

Mint is such an easy-to-use and approachable herb(s). Most of us grew up with the familiar flavors of spearmint and peppermint - gums, minty chocolates, cookies, and even candy canes!

peppermint

spearmint

Peppermint (Mentha piperita L.) and Spearmint (Menta spicata L.) are different, yet similar. Their flavors are different, but their herbal benefits are pretty much the same. As a rule, spearmint is milder than peppermint and peppermint comes with a bit of a warning, so check that out below!

Words of Caution

Even the most banal herbs can cause issues. If you are trying to use herbs to treat a medical condition, always discuss it with a medical professional.

Special notes with peppermint: Mints are often used to relieve nausea and reduce bloating and gas. However, if you have acid reflux, you should avoid peppermint as it can relax the lower esophageal sphincter, allowing acid to travel up the esophagus and worsening heartburn.

Spearmint is gentler and typically does not affect acid reflux. However, it still bothers some people.

Some people are allergic to mint. Allergies can be severe. If you have never used mint use caution the first time.

Lastly, always use care with essential oils as they are very strong. Mint essential oils can feel particularly hot. If you touch a mint essential oil, be very careful to then avoid touching your eyes or any other sensitive areas of the body. If you are ingesting essential oils, be sure the brand you use is approved for internal consumption, and use caution. I will say it again, essential oils are strong!

Watch Me Talk About Mints

The Benefits & Uses

Like most herbs, there are several different benefits from one herb.

Oral Care

Mints have antibacterial and antimicrobial properties. This makes them perfect for oral care. Mints kill the bacteria that cause bad breath and tooth decay while also leaving their pleasant, minty smell behind.

• use a mint essential oil to make your own toothpaste.

• in a pinch chew on a fresh leaf to freshen your breath.

• gargle with mint tea to relieve sore throat.

Digestive System

Mints stimulate hunger and digestion. As mentioned above, mints relieve nausea and vomiting, as well as reduce bloating and gas. However, they can aggravate acid reflux and cause heartburn. (see Words of Caution above)

• have a cup of mint tea before a meal to stimulate digestion.

• dilute mint essential in a carrier oil and massage the belly to relieve gas and bloating (wash hands thoroughly).

Respiratory System

Mints have decongestant properties, relieving coughs and congestion.

• relieve congestion by taking a small drop of peppermint essential oil on your thumb and then touching it to the roof of your mouth as far back as possible. Your sinus will clear instantly!

• diffuse mint essential oil to help relieve cough and congestion due to cold or flu.

Nervous System

Mint (especially peppermint) can help relieve headaches by promoting relaxation and reducing stress. They also have a gentle muscle relaxant quality. Mint is also said to improve memory and cognitive function.

• treat a headache with a cold compress made with mint tea. Place it on your forehead or neck (be sure you don't get the tea in your eyes).

• diffuse mint essential oil while studying to improve information absorption.

I don't know exactly what category to put this in, but mint has cooling, menthol properties that make it great for cooling the body. Make a spray of 1/2 cup distilled water, 1 TBSP vodka, and 10-15 drops of peppermint essential oil. Spray the body to treat fever, alleviate hot flashes or to combat the summer heat. (again, avoid eyes and private parts!)

And it just tastes great, making it a lovely addition to tea blends.

Growing Peppermint or Spearmint

Whether you want to grow one or both, these are easy to grow! All you need is some good dirt, water, sunshine, and plenty of space. These plants grow like a weed, they really do. Therefore, you do have to give some thought to where you want to plant them because they are going to spread and move and take over (like a weed).

When you go to the garden center, you will find a ton of mint varieties. They are all good, but I'm a fan of the classics. Do I really need pineapple mint or chocolate mint? Probably not. But even these odd varietals will have some medicinal qualities, but not to the extent of the original. Therefore, think about what you are going to use the plant for. If you want to make herbal remedies, get the standard plants. If you just want to try out some interesting teas, grab the one that sounds good to you!

Disclaimer

The information provided is not intended to be a substitute for medical treatment. Please be sure to research herbs and consult your medical care provider before using herbal medicine, particularly if you have a known medical condition or if you are pregnant or nursing. The information provided should not be considered health advice. You are responsible for consulting a medical professional before implementing a new herb or herbal remedy. Allergic reactions and interactions with prescription and over-the-counter medication can occur and can be serious.

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