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Peppermint (menthe piperita) This herb is so common that perhaps it is
easy to overlook it- but it deserved better than that.
Cooling, refreshing, stimulating, fresh…these are just a few words that
describe mint. Common in beverage
tea blends, mint has a place in many medicinal blends, as well as in our
cooking.
There are many different species of mint. We are currently growing a potpourri of peppermint from Horizon Herbs. It is intriguing to see the little plants coming up with subtle differences in shading. The children are all excited about seeing what differences there are between the different plants. We are also growing Mayan Mint from the same source. This is supposed to be sweet, similar to Stevia, and great in tea blends. In the past we have experimented with many different mints, including spearmint and chocolate mint (mmmmmmmmmmmmmm). What variety of mint you at any given time is really up to you. Peppermint is the strongest in most medicinal matters, but sometimes the more subtle spearmint is just the thing to make a blend sing. Investigate and experiment to find what is best for you. I do recommend spearmint for children under the age of three and pregnant women. Mints thrive in shade. I found that the sun dappled shade is the best. Moist, rich soils will assure your mint supply, insh’Allaah. Mint will take over any space in which you put it, so be prepared. Many people who do not want their mint to take over the whole garden plant their mints in containers. Do not put mints close together, as they will cross pollinate, eventually making one all new variety of mint instead of several different varieties.
Key Actions Now, how to write about mints without taking up pages and pages of newsletter???? Internal and External Uses There are at least three ways that peppermint is your herbal ally when dealing with colds and respiratory problems. The first is as a tea. Teas are wonderful when one is stuffed up and miserable, as the heat is as integral to the alleviation of symptoms, as well as activating the herbal components. It also feels good to be tucked up in bed with a book and a warm cup of tea when you need some extra soul nourishment and comfort. Gimme Some Relief Cold and Flu Tea Combine ½ teaspoon each of Pour one quart of boiling water over, cover,
and let steep for 25 minutes. Strain
and keep by your bedside. The second way that peppermint can help you with congestion is through a vapor steam with the herb or its essential oil. Herbal Congestion Steam Bring the water to a simmer and remove from
heat. Add essential oils and herbs immediately. Put them in a place where you
can sit next to it comfortably. (But if it is on the rug, make sure to place a
trivet underneath!) Lean over the pot and drape a towel over your head and the
pot, making a sort of tent. Breathe in the wonderful scent! Peppermint is well known for helping stomach problems such as gas, colic, cramps, flatulence, bloating and diarrhea. It is also very helpful to the digestive system, and increases bile flow. Tummy Ache Infusion 1 teaspoon dried peppermint or 2 teaspoons
fresh Bring water to a boil. Place as strainer in cup, and put the herbs in strainer. Fill the cop with the boiled water. Cover the cup and steep for 10 minutes. Add honey. Take 3 or 4 times a day. Mint is a wonderful plant for children to grow, and its many uses make it a priceless addition to any kitchen garden ~ Khadijah Lacina
DISCLAIMER: This information is for educational purposes, based on the
study, education, and experience of the author, and is not meant to replace the
advice of a trained physician. Soapnuts and the author are not responsible
for any outcome of your use of this information. |
