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Mint, Peppermint
Mint, Peppermint
Peppermint
Mentha x piperita
Labiatae family Language and mythology The Romans crowned themselves with peppermint, and the poet Ovid referred to mint as a symbol of hospitality. The Greeks believed peppermint could clear the voice and cure hiccups. It was thought to be a remedy for mad dog bites when combined with salt. The colonists brought peppermint to America for medicinal use. Description This sterile hybrid has erect, square stems tinted reddish purple. The dark green leaves are opposite, ovate to lanceolate, with serrated edges. The axillary flowers have purple terminal spikes. Plant type and hardiness Perennial; hardiness zone 5. Height and width Height and width 12 to 24 inches. Light and soil Full sun to partial shade; moist, rich, well-drained soil with a pH of 6.5. Pests and disease Verticillium wilt, mint rust, mint anthracnose, spider mites, loopers, flea beetles, root borers, grasshoppers, cutworms, root weevils, and aphids. Cultivation Since peppermint does not produce seeds, take cuttings in summer and place in a growth medium. Keep moist and transplant when the root system is well established. Peppermint spreads rather quickly by runners. Contain it in pots buried in the garden with the rim exposed or plant in a large area where it can spread. Frequent cuttings or mowing of large plots will keep mints at their prettiest. In late fall, cut plants to the ground and mulch where winters are severe. Companion planting This plant is said to repel aphids, flea beetles, and cabbage pests. Grow near roses to deter aphids. Propagation method Cuttings or division. Bloom time and color July to August; mauve. Harvesting Peppermint is best fresh; cut as needed. It can be frozen in ice cube trays with a little water. Herbal uses Aromatic, cosmetic, culinary, and medicinal.
Fresh or dried leaves scent sachets and potpourris. They also are used in herbal water to refresh and cool skin, in facials to cleanse skin, and in lotions. Peppermint flavors candy, gum, teas, mint water, vinegars, jellies, and sauces. It is said to have some medicinal qualities. Garden notes Our 4-inch seedlings were planted inside 5-gallon pots with the bottoms cut out. Since the garden was a one-season project, we buried the pots in the ground with about 1 to 2 inches of rim exposed to inhibit spreading growth. We controlled creeping runners by ripping them out whenever they invaded adjacent areas. The runners wrapped themselves around the inside of the pot many times despite our diligent efforts.
Aromatherapy Peppermint Essential oil
> Essential Oils
Peppermint almost needs no introduction, we are all familiar with the aroma from a wide variety of products. Peppermint has a long tradition of medicinal use. In 1879 the British Medical Journal reported the reliving influence of menthol upon headaches and neuralgia.
Belonging to the mint family there are is a wide variety of mint species. Mint is a very popular herb, widely grown in the herb garden, they spread rapidly and provide a wonderful fragrance. Peppermint grows wild throughout Europe, North America and Australia and is widely cultivated for medicinal and food use.
Extraction of the oil
The oil varies from colorless to pale yellow or sometimes with a distinct greenish tinge. The strong, penetrating aroma has a sweet undertone. The oil is extracted from the fresh flowering tops of the plants, ideally removed slightly before the plants bloom.
Properties
Peppermint Oil is both soothing and energising. The distinctive 'coolness' of the oil stimulates the body and mind.
Usage
Peppermint invigorates, revitalizes, refreshes and also brings mental clarity. Blending well with other essential oils peppermint creates excellent blends for massage. Used in a cool bath Peppermint is an ideal energiser, yet a soothing bath of peppermint will help you unwind and relax at the end of the day.
Peppermint
Other names: Mentha piperita
Parts Used: THe leaf.
Other names: Mentha piperita, brandy mint, lamb mint, American mint
Uses: Peppermint has been found to improve mental accuracy, and soothe the respiratory system.
It may also relieve nausea, fever, vomiting and acid stomach.
The warm teas of hte herb are used as an antispasmodic stomachic and carminative for indigestion, colic, and flatulence.
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