Herb Highlights: Peppermint
Introduction
Peppermint is a naturally occurring hybrid of spearmint and water mint and is native to Europe and North America.1 Today, it can be found growing naturally in parts of India, where it is also cultivated.2 There are many cultivars of peppermint, including “Candy Mint” and “Chocolate Mint.”3 Other countries that cultivate peppermint include China and Australia.2 It has been used for thousands of years as a digestive aid by ancient Greek, Roman, and Egyptian cultures.1
More Menthol
One of the active ingredients in mint is menthol. In fact, peppermint has a high concentration of menthol in it.3 It is one of the mint plants that is used to extract pure menthol that is then used as a topical analgesic, decongestant, antispasmodic, and, of course, as a flavoring in oral hygiene products, gum, and candy.4 Many of us are very familiar with after-dinner mints and – of course – candy canes!
Plenty of Purposes for Peppermint
Peppermint is one of the oldest herbs that humans have used for medicine and food.3 Peppermint often flavors cooked vegetables and meats. It is also a popular tea. In addition, it is frequently used topically as a facial astringent or hair rinse.5 The essential oil of peppermint is used for similar purposes as menthol such as soothing the digestive system.6 Considering all of its uses, it is not surprising that our species has been using peppermint for thousands of years and most likely will continue into the future.
Sources
2 – Investigations of Mentha × piperita L.
5 – Benefits of the Mint Plant | The Old Farmer’s Almanac
6 – Peppermint Essential Oil: Uses, Benefits | Foundation
