Mint (Peppermint, Spearmint)
Mentha x piperita (Peppermint), Mentha spicata (Spearmint)
PLANT NAME
Mint (Peppermint, Spearmint)
COMMON NAMES
Mint, peppermint, spearmint, garden mint
BOTANICAL NAME
Mentha x piperita (Peppermint), Mentha spicata (Spearmint)
IDENTIFICATION
A creeping perennial herb with square stems, opposite aromatic leaves, and small white or pink flowers. Peppermint has smoother, darker leaves with purple-tinged stems, while spearmint has bright green, sharply serrated leaves.
IDENTIFICATION IMAGE
AI ART TO BE GENERATED
PARTS TRADITIONALLY USED
Leaves.
CULINARY USES
Spearmint is used in savory dishes (lamb, yogurt sauces, chutneys) and sweet drinks. Peppermint is preferred for desserts, candies, and strong teas due to high menthol content.
TRADITIONAL USES
Widely used historically to ease digestive upset, relieve headaches, and clear respiratory congestion.
GROWING / HARVESTING
Extremely vigorous and invasive; best grown in containers. Thrives in moist soil and partial to full sun. Harvest leaves frequently to encourage bushy growth.
SAFETY / CAUTION
Always consult your doctor. Generally recognized as safe in culinary amounts. Peppermint essential oil is highly concentrated and should not be ingested directly or given to young children.