Mint

Learn how the refreshing flavour of mint is used in food and drink. Discover health benefits of mint, varieties and cultivation, and the history of mint. See how it looks under the microscope. Mentha spicata) grows to about 90 cm (3 feet) in height, with open spikes of pink or Mentha × piperita), a hybrid between spearmint and water mint, has a heavy scent, stalked leaves, and reddish lilac flowers in dense spikes. M. aquatica) commonly grows in ditches and has rounded M. arvensis), native in North America and Eurasia, reaches about 1 metre (about 3.3 feet) in height. Pennyroyal ( M. pulegium) has small oval

What Is Mint? Mint leaves create a cool sensation in the mouth. Toothpaste, mouthwash, breath mints, and chewing gum are all commonly flavored with mint. In addition to freshening breath, mint adds flavor to foods and drinks – everything from ice cream and tarts to lemonade and cocktails to meat dishes (especially lamb). There are many varieties of the mint plant, and most fall under the genus mentha. Because mint plants spread quickly, gardeners tend to grow them in containers. When planted directly into the ground, they can become invasive and take over a garden. Mint grows natively on all continents except Antarctica. Peppermint and spearmint are likely the most commonly used mint varieties, but many others exist, such as wild mint and water mint. Some plants referred to as "mint" also fall under the genus monarda. Both mentha and monarda genuses are within the same family, called lamiaceae. Monarda mints include horsemint, catmint, and stonemint. All varieties of mint leaves may be used fresh, in dried herb form, brewed as a tea, or concentrated in an essential oil. Health Benefits of Mint Traditional medicine uses mint to treat a variety of ailments. Unfortunately, there aren't many human studies documenting the impact mint has on the body apart from digestion support and irritable bowel syndrome relief. With time, research could confirm that mint is useful in treating a wider variety of illnesses. Mint is perhaps most popularly known as a remedy for digestive problem...

annick vanderschelden photography / Getty Images Chocolate mint, a peppermint relative, is an oddball: The "Chocolate" in its name comes from its smell, not its taste. Its taste is actually orangey. It is used to flavor both drinks and desserts. If you are interested in the • Name: Chocolate mint ( Mentha × piperita f. citrata'Chocolate') • USDA Hardiness Zones: 5 to 9 • Light: Full sun to partial shade • Soil: Well-drained, rich, and moist • Mature Size: 12 to 24 in. tall Ana Rocio Garcia Franco / Getty Images While spearmint gets its common name from the shape of its leaves, its botanical name could refer to either its foliage or its flowers, which occur on pointy spikes. The flowers are pink to pale violet. Spearmint is a popular flavoring agent for chewing gum and is also used in salads and to flavor teas. Some gardeners prefer the 'Kentucky Colonel' cultivar over others because they feel it has nicer foliage. • Name: Spearmint ( Mentha spicata) • USDA Hardiness Zones: 5 to 9 • Light: Full sun to partial shade • Soil: Well-drained, rich, and moist • Mature Size: 12 to 24 in. tall By Eve Livesey / Getty Images While is a type of mint, it differs from most in some important respects. For one thing, its most popular use currently is as a pest deterrent rather than as a culinary herb. This mint is toxic and should not be consumed. It also stays shorter and does not have the rapid spread of many types of mint. This makes it effective where a low ground cover is desired. Pen...

Mint is the name for over a dozen plant species, including peppermint and spearmint, that belong to the genus Mentha. These plants are particularly known for the cooling sensation they impart. They can be added to foods in both fresh and dried forms. Mint is a popular ingredient in several foods and beverages, ranging from teas and alcoholic drinks to sauces, salads and desserts. While eating the plant offers some health benefits, research shows that several of mint’s health benefits come from applying it to the skin, inhaling its aroma or taking it as a capsule. This article takes a closer look at eight science-based health benefits of mint. Share on Pinterest While not typically consumed in large quantities, mint does contain a fair amount of nutrients. In fact, just under 1/3 cup or half an ounce (14 grams) of spearmint contains ( • Calories: 6 • Fiber: 1 gram • Vitamin A: 12% of the RDI • Iron: 9% of the RDI • Manganese: 8% of the RDI • Folate: 4% of the RDI Because of its dynamic flavor, mint is often added to recipes in small amounts, so consuming even 1/3 cup may be difficult. However, it’s possible you may come close to this amount in some salad recipes that include mint among the other ingredients. Mint is a particularly good source of vitamin A, a It is also a potent source of antioxidants, especially when compared to other herbs and spices. Antioxidants help protect your body from oxidative stress, a type of damage to cells caused by free radicals ( Summary Alth...

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