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Description
Mints comprise approximately 20 species in the plant family Lamiaceae and are grown for their leaves which are widely used as a flavoring. Mint plants are mainly aromatic perennials and they possess erect, branching stems and oblong to ovate or lanceolate leaves arranged in opposing pairs on the stems. The leaves are often covered in tiny hairs and have a serrated margin. Mint plants produce a terminal flower spike and the flowers can be white or purple in color depending on variety. Mint plants are fast growing and can become very invasive. They can reach heights of 23 – 35 inches and will continue to grow for many years once established. Mint may also be referred to by species and these include, but are not limited to peppermint, spearmint, water mint and Japanese mint.
Uses
Mint leaves are used fresh or dried to make teas, jams and desserts. Essential oil can be extracted from the leaves and is used as a flavoring. Mint leaves also can be used as a refreshing and cleansing facial wash. To make this refreshing facial wash simply place a handful of bruised Mint leaves in a quart-sized pan of cool water. Let it sit for an hour or so, then chill in the refrigerator and use as desired. Mint combined with Rosemary in a vinegar is reported to help control dandruff (place the sprigs in a bottle that can be tightly sealed, and let sit for at least a week out of direct sunlight).
Medicinal
Mint also can be used as an appetite stimulant. It reduces hunger for a short time, but when the effects wear off the hunger returns stronger than before. For those lucky enough to need to gain a few pounds, a tea might be tried 30 minutes before a meal for appetite stimulation. New research indicates that mint oil used externally in a cold compress or rubbed directly into the skin can significantly reduce pain in cases of arthritis and chronic joint pain, with few if any side effects.
Sources
https://www.plantvillage.com/topics/mint/infos/
http://www.gardensablaze.com/HerbMintMed.htm
Recipes
http://localfoods.about.com/od/mint/
Disclaimer:
This information is for educational purposes only. Plant Sale does not and can not take any responsibility for any adverse effects from the use of plants. Plant Sale makes no claims to the medicinal/edible effects of these plants. In fact, plants may be harmful or even deadly if taken for the wrong conditions, used in excessive amounts, or combined with other drugs. Consult your doctor about your health conditions and the use of plant-based remedies. Always seek advice from a professional before using a plant medicinally/edibly. The statements on this site have not been evaluated by the FDA. Use information wisely and at your own risk.
Mints comprise approximately 20 species in the plant family Lamiaceae and are grown for their leaves which are widely used as a flavoring. Mint plants are mainly aromatic perennials and they possess erect, branching stems and oblong to ovate or lanceolate leaves arranged in opposing pairs on the stems. The leaves are often covered in tiny hairs and have a serrated margin. Mint plants produce a terminal flower spike and the flowers can be white or purple in color depending on variety. Mint plants are fast growing and can become very invasive. They can reach heights of 23 – 35 inches and will continue to grow for many years once established. Mint may also be referred to by species and these include, but are not limited to peppermint, spearmint, water mint and Japanese mint.
Uses
Mint leaves are used fresh or dried to make teas, jams and desserts. Essential oil can be extracted from the leaves and is used as a flavoring. Mint leaves also can be used as a refreshing and cleansing facial wash. To make this refreshing facial wash simply place a handful of bruised Mint leaves in a quart-sized pan of cool water. Let it sit for an hour or so, then chill in the refrigerator and use as desired. Mint combined with Rosemary in a vinegar is reported to help control dandruff (place the sprigs in a bottle that can be tightly sealed, and let sit for at least a week out of direct sunlight).
Medicinal
Mint also can be used as an appetite stimulant. It reduces hunger for a short time, but when the effects wear off the hunger returns stronger than before. For those lucky enough to need to gain a few pounds, a tea might be tried 30 minutes before a meal for appetite stimulation. New research indicates that mint oil used externally in a cold compress or rubbed directly into the skin can significantly reduce pain in cases of arthritis and chronic joint pain, with few if any side effects.
Sources
https://www.plantvillage.com/topics/mint/infos/
http://www.gardensablaze.com/HerbMintMed.htm
Recipes
http://localfoods.about.com/od/mint/
Disclaimer:
This information is for educational purposes only. Plant Sale does not and can not take any responsibility for any adverse effects from the use of plants. Plant Sale makes no claims to the medicinal/edible effects of these plants. In fact, plants may be harmful or even deadly if taken for the wrong conditions, used in excessive amounts, or combined with other drugs. Consult your doctor about your health conditions and the use of plant-based remedies. Always seek advice from a professional before using a plant medicinally/edibly. The statements on this site have not been evaluated by the FDA. Use information wisely and at your own risk.