|
Mints
Mentha species
The name Mint comes from Minthe of Greek mythology, a nymph beloved of
Pluto, who transformed her into this aromatic plant when his wife threatened
action against her. Mint has been valued ever since, reference being made to
it in the Bible. The Hebrews scattered it on synagogue floors, and it was
used centuries later in the same way in Italian churches, then in Medieval
times, also as a ‘strewing’ herb. The Romans flavored sauces and wines with
Mint. In Japan, people valued the invigorating scent so highly that they
made little scented balls of it to hang around their necks. By the 9 th
Century hundreds of Mint varieties had been introduced to Europe, as the
plant readily self-hybridizes. The more well-known and commonly-grown mints
are: Chocolate, Corsican, Eau de Cologne, Spearmint, Peppermint, Curly, and
Variegated Apple. But most people just smell the plants in order to pick the
variety they want to grow or use, rather than choose a plant by name. Most
mints enjoy growing in partial shade in a rather wet spot, though
well-drained, and alkaline soil high in nutrients. The plants can be grown
indoors. To harvest, the leaf-stems are picked just before the plant
flowers. They can then be dried, frozen or infused in oil or vinegar, to
preserve.
USES
Decorative Leaf - Use in herb posies and bouquets for invalids.
Culinary Leaf - Mint makes a refreshing tea, especially when different kinds
are blended. Use in mint sauces, vinegars, syrups, and with chocolate in
desserts. Crystallize as a sweet for decoration. Add fresh leaves to veggie
dishes, such as new potatoes and peas, and to fruit salads, sun tea and
punch. Use sparingly in soups and stuffings.~
Household Whole Plant - (Spearmint and Peppermint) Grow near Roses to keep
aphids away.
Leaf - Mice detest mint, so scatter the leaves around food to discourage
them. To attract honeybees to a new hive, rub Spearmint leaves on the hives.
Use the essential oil to overpower tobacco smells. Lay Pennyroyal in pet
beds to deter fleas.
Cosmetic Leaf - Make a strong tea to heal chapped hands. Add to bathwater
for an invigorating bath. (Eau de Cologne Mint) Makes a refreshing bath.
Aromatic Leaf - Use in potpourris and herb bags.
Medicinal Leaf - (Spearmint) Inhale drops of essential oil sprinkled on a
handerchief, for relief from colds’ congestion. (Peppermint) Make a tea to
help heal indigestion, colds and flu. Sip cold tea for relief of flatulence
and hiccups. (Spearmint and Peppermint) Soak leaves in oil to massage into
the head where migraine pain appears, or for facial neuralgia (KEEP AWAY
FROM EYES.), and rheumatic and muscular aches, especially during winter.
CAUTION: Do not take Pennyroyal in large doses when pregnant or
suffering from kidney problems. Use only under medical supervision.
(some information obtained from "The Complete Book of Herbs“,
by Leslie Bremness)
<Back
|
