Mint Magic: From Myth & Medicine to Meals & Fresh Breath

Lamiaceae (same as basil, rosemary, sage)

Because both words ended up in English as “mint”, people sometimes assume “mint condition” has to do with freshness like the herb’s cool flavour. But historically, it’s only about coins.

In Greek mythology, Minthe was a nymph transformed into the fragrant herb by Persephone.

Spearmint. Peppermint. Applemint. Chocolatemint. Ps. And remember Origanum is also part of the Mint family!

Grow it on your windowsill and pick the leaves just before the plant flowers. Like most of the herbs we discuss as part of our #backtoEden series, it is cheap, safe and readily available.

There is a good reason your local pizzeria has a bowl full of peppermints next to the till. They make a nice after-dinner sweet as well as good short-term breath fresheners. Peppermint, in the right form, also combats indigestion and reduces wind and bloating. Peppermint is among the best herbs for digestive problems and intestinal pain. The oil it contains – especially menthol and menthone, relax the smooth muscles that line the intestinal tract, helping to relieve cramping.   

Thus, perfect to use before a coloscopy. Peppermints will relax the colon and reduce spasms in the colon. Some doctors spray peppermint oil on the tip of the scope to reduce spasms.

The mint family have two traits; the stem is square, the leaves come off opposite and alternate. Two grows north south, and two grow east west.

This aromatic herb can be used in sauces or with lamb, game, veal, fish or fruit. Mint spreads prolifically – grow it in containers or away from other plants. Propagate from offshoots or runners planted in October or November in moist, loamy soil in semi-shade.

Mint benefits on Digestion:
(Add peppermint Oil + Fennel)

IBS
Abdominal Cramps
Bloating
Gas

Mint benefits on Respiratory
Asthma
Lung Congestion
Mucus
Sinus Congestion
Sore throat
Coughing / chronic cough (+ calcium)
irritation in the throat
hoarseness
Freshens breath (intermittent fasting)

Steam inhalations are helpful for both dry and wet coughs, as they can both soothe and scratchy throat and help to bring up phlegm. Fill the bathroom sink with very hot water and add 5 drops of any of the following essential oils: rosemary (to clear sinuses), lavender (soothing), eucalyptus (throat / asthma) or pine (mildly antiseptic). Drape a towel over the sink and tent your head. Inhale the aromatic steam for 10 minutes at a time.