Plant Profile
Mentha spp.
Mint
Lamiaceae
Description: Square-stemmed perennial, up to 2 feet (0.61 m) tall; terminal spikes of tiny purple, pink, or white flowers; opposite toothed leaves; highly aromatic.
Hardiness: To zone 4
Parts used: Leaves
The Health Benefits of Mint
There are many health benefits of mint. From soothing upset tummies, to helping to support your immune system, mint is a valuable household herb not to be ignored.
This herb is also easy to grow and does so with wild abandon. Be sure not to plant it where you can’t control its spread. I like to plant it in large containers, so it can’t take over my whole garden.
You would also be hard-pressed to find a more beautifully fragrant herb than mint. Mint is amazingly versatile and is a helpful and welcome herb in every household. Mint is right at home in an invigorating cup of tea, in a herbal extract or added to many recipes.
There are a ton of varieties of mints to savor. Peppermint, spearmint, chocolate mint, apple mint, pineapple mint, and orange mint are just a few in the Lamiaceae or mint family.
Perhaps most commonly known for its ability to soothe the upset tummy, this herb has found its place among the most revered of digestive soothing herbs. I use this herb often and find it to be a delicious addition to my morning cup of tea. Not only is it soothing to the tummy, but it is invigorating and restorative too!
Potential Health Benefits of Mint
Mint, a delightful and aromatic herb, is celebrated for its numerous uses. Rich in nutrients, mint can be a soothing addition to your diet, often enjoyed to help with digestion. Many find its cooling effect to be refreshing for sore muscles and helpful for maintaining oral health.
Mint is also popular for its potential to support respiratory health, with its invigorating aroma known to help clear congestion and ease breathing. Additionally, its refreshing taste and calming scent are often appreciated for their stress-reducing qualities and ability to enhance mental clarity. Truly, mint is a versatile herb that not only adds flavor to our meals but also contributes to our overall sense of well-being.
Mint, with its refreshing aroma and soothing properties, is renowned for its diverse range of benefits. Let’s explore the various ways this remarkable herb can support our well-being:
1.) Gastrointestinal Comfort: Mint has been traditionally used to provide relief from stomach discomfort. Known for its calming effects, it can help ease feelings of indigestion and stomach cramps. Many find it particularly soothing for conditions like irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) and nausea.
2.) Easing Cold Symptoms: The menthol in mint acts as an aromatic decongestant, helping to break up phlegm and mucus. This can make it a comforting choice when dealing with common cold symptoms.
3.) Support for Allergies: Mint plants contain Rosmarinic acid, which has been studied for its potential antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Some research, including a 2019 study, suggests it may help reduce symptoms associated with asthma and allergies.
4.) Maintaining Microbial Balance: Mint is known for its natural antimicrobial and antifungal properties. This makes it a valuable herb for supporting overall microbial balance, particularly following antibiotic use.
5.) Soothing Inflammation: Traditionally, mint has been used for its anti-inflammatory properties, especially for respiratory health. Some clinical trials are exploring its potential in supporting asthma management by helping to reduce inflammation.
6.) Promoting Relaxation: Mint’s natural compounds are beneficial for muscle and mental relaxation. When used in balms or infusions, it can provide comfort to sore muscles. Additionally, the soothing scent of mint is often used to relieve stress and enhance mental clarity. Incorporating mint into daily routines, whether through teas, aromatherapy, or topical applications, can contribute to a more relaxed body and mind.
In essence, mint isn’t just a culinary delight; it’s a versatile herb that can be a valuable part of holistic wellness practices, supporting everything from digestive comfort to mental and muscular relaxation.
Sources: https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/mint-benefits
Chumpitazi BP, Kearns GL, Shulman RJ. Review article: the physiological effects and safety of peppermint oil and its efficacy in irritable bowel syndrome and other functional disorders. Aliment Pharmacol Ther. 2018 Mar;47(6):738-752. doi: 10.1111/apt.14519. Epub 2018 Jan 26. PMID: 29372567; PMCID: PMC5814329.
Warning
Culinary Uses of Mint
This herb was initially introduced to Britian by the Romans and is still popular in its culinary uses to this day. Britian’s influence throughout the world has ensured that this herb’s uses and potential were realized far and wide.
Aside from the health benefits of mint, this versitile herb has many culinary uses as well. Add mint to desserts, salads, sauces, and jellies and to hot or cold teas and cocktails. Mint can be a refreshing compliment to hot or spicy food. Consider combining chopped fresh mint with chopped cucumber and plain yogurt. I have found that I really like it with fish.
The Many Useful Properties of Mint
The tasty and vivacious mints are known for their many beneficial properties!
- Antispasmodic – helps with muscle cramping
- Antimicrobial – traditionally used to address viral, bacterial, and fungal concerns
- Carminative – rich in aromatic oils, often used to relieve gas, griping, and spasms
- Digestive – commonly used by herbalists to support digestion
- Diaphoretic – traditionally used to promote perspiration and stimulate peripheral circulation
- Nervine relaxant – believed to help calm tension and irritability in the nervous system
- Nervine stimulant – used to support stimulation of the nervous system
- Topical analgesic – applied externally to ease discomfort
*The above information was taken from Herbal Medicine from the Heart of the Earth by Sharol Tilgner, Healing Herbal Teas by Brigitte Mars, Mentha piperita/pudina: Peppermint by Anne McIntyre, and Peppermint in The Herbarium by the Herbal Academy.
In Greek mythology, Minthe was the nymph lover of Hades who was transformed into the fragrant herb by Persephone, the goddess of the underworld, and Hades wife.
Sun Brewed Mint Iced Tea
Equipment
- 2 quart pitcher
Ingredients
- 2 Quarts Water
- 1/4 Cup Wildflower Honey
- 1 Large Lemon
- 2 Bunches Fresh Mint Leaves
Instructions
- Pour the water into a large 2-quart pitcher or container with a lid. Stir in honey until dissolved.
- Zest the lemon, being careful not to include any white pith, and juice the lemon. Combine the zest and juice with the honey-water mixture.
- Hold a bunch of mint in one hand; use your other hand to twist and squeeze the leaves, slightly bruising them to release their fragrance and oils. Immerse the bunches in the water mixture.
- Cover the container and place it in direct sunlight for two hours. Remove the mint leaves, shake, and serve over ice in tall glasses, garnished with a mint sprig.
Disclaimer:
The Outdoor Apothecary website is intended for informational purposes only and should not be considered a substitute for professional medical advice. The information provided is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. While we strive to provide accurate and up-to-date information, it is the reader’s responsibility to ensure proper plant identification and usage.
Please be aware that some plants are poisonous or can have serious adverse health effects. We are not health professionals, medical doctors, or nutritionists. It is essential to consult with qualified professionals for verification of nutritional information, health benefits, and any potential risks associated with edible and medicinal plants mentioned on this website.
