How to Learn about Mints! Part 1

Love the taste, Learn about the plant!

Warning!    Please remember to check all herbs for side effects. 

While mints are for the most part safe, there are side effects for a small amount of people.

Ah, the refreshing mint!  Where would we be without the peppermint candies, the spearmint gum or even the mint toothpastes?  Mint is a very versatile herb, spanning from freshening breath to easing nausea.  This is one of my favorite herbs of all and I would never be caught without some in my cupboard.  And neither should you and I'll tell you why!

Taste!  Where would we be without the taste of mint?  No peppermint candy canes at Christmas or, my favorite, a warm cup of mint tea with a bit of honey for that occasional nasty cold.  Mint flavors a lot of savory dishes, such as lamb, beef and chicken, and is used in jelly and infused in honey.  And of course we can't forget the mint patties smothered in dark chocolate!

Scents!  Mint is a great addition to any potpourri whether it be summer or winter or in between.  The wonderful  perfume of mint takes me back to thousands of memories of childhood and more.  In my garden, the smells of the mint patch gives my time spent digging and planting a so much more pleasant feel.  Put a few sprigs of mint under your pillow and slip into your sweet dreams with a lovely, crisp scent.

Health!  You can enjoy the soothing effects of mint several ways.  Personally, I prefer infusions or teas, especially for the cold days of fall and winter or those coughs and sniffles.  Mints also will soothe the digestive problems and gassy moments in life and will help to ease the nausea of the flu.  Not quite ready to sleep?  Sip away at a hot cup of mint tea and slip into your warm bed and have a good night.

Mint is a very wonderful and simple herb for all to use and enjoy. Next time you're at the supermarket, pick up some fresh mint or even some mint oils and try it out.  With so many uses, you're sure to find a new way to use this herb to enhance your life, even if it is just to enjoy the smell. 

Some Tips:  How to Identify the Mint Plant

• Square Stems:  All mints have a square stem instead of a round one like most plants.  This is the most distinguishing of all the characteristics of the mints
• Deep veined, serrated and pointed leaves:  All mints have heavy and prominent veins through the leaves and come to a point at the end.  They also have serrated edges on the leaf edges.
• Menthol or Minty smell:  When you rub the leaves of the mint plant you'll smell the specific aroma associated with that plant, namely the menthol.