Peppermint Herb History

Peppermint herb is a natural hybrid of water mint (Mentha aquatica ) and spearmint(Mentha spicata ) and was first cultivated in England in the late seventeenth century. The herb has been used as a remedy for indigestion since Ancient Egyptian times. In fact, dried peppermint leaves were found in Egyptian pyramids dating back to 1000 b.c. The ancient Greeks and Romans valued it as a stomach soother. During the eighteenth century, peppermint became popular in Western Europe as a folk remedy for nausea, vomiting, morning sickness , respiratory infections , and menstrual disorders. Peppermint was first listed in the London Pharmacopoeia in 1721. In modern times it appears in the British Herbal Pharmacopoeia as a remedy for intestinal colic, gas , colds, morning sickness, and menstruation pain .

Growing Peppermint Herb

You can conduct a soil test through your local extension office to determine the nutrient balance and pH of your soil. The soil pH should be between 5.5 and 6.0. Peppermint will thrive in a part shade to full sun location.  Variegated cultivars require protection from the heat of the midday sun, or the white and cream areas of the foliage can become scorched. This is particularly important if you’re growing in a region with temperatures that go above 85°F.

Preserving And Storing Peppermint

Pick through the fresh mint, removing damaged leaves and tough stems and rinse. Gently spin dry or pat dry between two kitchen or paper towels. Chop the mint leaves (remove stems) and place 1-2 teaspoons into each compartment of an ice cube tray, filling about halfway. Top off with water and freeze. Once the cubes have frozen, remove and store in an airtight freezer bag or container in your freezer, up to 3 months. Don’t forget to label and date.

Peppermint Recipes

The benefits of peppermint have been known for centuries and it’s not out of style now. Feeling a little nauseated? Need an afternoon pick me up? Skip the caffeine and reach for this power-packed affordable herb. There’s power in the plant!

Peppermint Herb Uses

• Ease Digestion
•  Help Relieve Tension
•  Freshen Your Breath.
•  Relieve Clogged Sinuses.
•  Improve Energy.
•  Help Relieve Menstrual Cramps.
• Fight Bacterial Infections.
• Improves Your Sleep.

Peppermint Nutrition

Here are some proven facts: Digestion – Peppermint is good for indigestion and bloating. As a carminative herb, peppermint has the ability to expel gas from the stomach and intestines by relaxing the muscles involved.  It should not, however, be used for the treatment of Gastrointestinal Reflux Disease (GERD) as it may further relax the muscles that prevent the backflow of stomach acid thus worsening the problem. Colds and Flu – Peppermint is a natural decongestant. One of the herb’s active ingredients is menthol, which thins mucus and will therefore loosen phlegm and reduce coughs.

It is soothing to sore throats. Type II Diabetes – Test-tube results show that peppermint may aid in lowering blood sugar and may prove helpful to mild or pre-diabetic patients. This comes with a word of warning. When combined with medication, it may result in Hypoglycemia (low blood sugar). Blood Pressure – Results are similar to those of blood sugar and the same cautions apply.

Other Herb Varieties Worth Checking Out

 Boneset

 Evening Primrose