Peppermint

Additional Info

A cross between spearmint and water mint, peppermint has a pronounced aroma and flavor. The menthol in peppermint gives the herb its characteristic effect when eaten, that is, an initial hotness, followed by coolness in the mouth. This has made peppermint oil a popular ingredient in toothpaste, confectionery, such as chewing gum and mint sweets, and aftershave. When it comes to cooking, peppermint oil rather than fresh peppermint leaves are used, like other mints, peppermint is valued for its digestive and mouth-fresh qualities and peppermint sweets are often eaten after a meal. It is also considered to be an effective antispasmodic, a decongestant, and an antiseptic agent. As with other mints, peppermint is very easy to cultivate and should be grown in a pot to contain its invasive tendencies.