Peppermint is a very tasty herb for most individuals. It can be used for headaches , anxiety and soothing the stomach. It is part of the Mint Family along with Spearmint, Lemon Balm, Bugleweed and Motherwort
Commonly called peppermint, M. piperita is a hybrid of Mentha spicata (spearmint) and M. aquatica (watermint), and is a low-growing, perennial aromatic in the mint family (Lamiaceae). Peppermint grows wild throughout Europe and North America in moist areas and is thought to be of Mediterranean origin. There are records of the plant being cultivated by ancient Egyptians. The leaves and stems of peppermint contain volatile oils that give the plant its pungent fragrance and taste. One of the naturally occurring chemicals in peppermint oil is menthol, which is responsible for the sensation of coolness that is characteristic of peppermint. Used for gastrointestinal and neurological conditions such as indigestion and tension headaches (oil used topically), peppermint’s antispasmodic and antidiarrheal effects are topics of continued research. Peppermint is one of the most popular herbs for use in teas, flavorings, and confections (e.g., chewing gum and candies).
I grow Peppermint in my yard. It grows very quickly as with most Mint Family herbs.
Until tomorrow…