Spearmint Leaf | Mentha Spicata | Certified Organic

Description

Fresh and fragrant USDA-certified organic spearmint leaf.

Originating in the Mediterranean, spearmint has a history of being used in Greece as an aphrodisiac, perfume and to scent bath water.

As more recent history suggests, it may be used to relieve nausea, vomiting, and respiratory issues, including common colds. Everyone is familiar with spearmint as the main ingredient in oral hygiene products and candies that leave a cool, tingling sensation and freshen breath. More scientific study and research is needed.

Botanical name: Mentha Spicata
Plant family: Lamiaceae
Also called: Brown Mint, mackerel mint, Our Lady’s Mint, Sage of Bethlehem, Garden Mint, Common Mint, Lamb Mint, Fish Mint, Pea Mint and Mackerel Mint.

Identification

Spearmint has green, rounded leaves that are lanced and oblong with opposite sided, paired square stems and lax, tapering spikes of lilac, pink, or white flowers.

Habitat

Spearmint is native to much of Europe and Asia but is now growing in many regions of the world, including Africa, the Americas, and several oceanic islands. The herb prefers partial shade and loamy, highly mulched soils, but can flourish in full sun to mostly shade as it will grow in almost any temperate climate.

Uses

Spearmint Tea

Spearmint makes a great tea and is also used in tea blends. A small amount goes a long way.

Try starting out with 1 gram of spearmint per 16 ounces of water. Boil the leaf in the water for at least 3 minutes, allow it to cool, and strain out the remaining material. If you would like a stronger or weaker tea, you can increase or decrease the amount of leaf used and the amount of time it is boiled in small increments.

Smoking Spearmint

Spearmint is a smoking herb and has a distinct flavor and aroma, but it does not smell or taste like spearmint. Most herbs and flowers do not retain their fragrance when burned. Spearmint does contain menthol, but in a much lower concentration than its relative, peppermint or field mint.

Smudge

Spearmint is used in smudging, but unfortunately, it loses much of its flavor and aroma when burned.

Herbal Supplement

Spearmint has been used in traditional medicine for various purposes.
1. Digestive Health: Spearmint is commonly used to help alleviate symptoms of indigestion, nausea, and gas. It is thought to relax the stomach muscles, thereby reducing digestive discomforts. Spearmint tea is often consumed for its soothing effect on the gastrointestinal tract.
2. Respiratory Benefits: Due to its menthol content, spearmint can help in relieving congestion in the respiratory tract. It is used to soothe sore throats, colds, and headaches. Inhalation of its aroma or consumption in tea form can help clear the sinuses and relieve respiratory discomfort.
3. Stress and Anxiety Reduction: Spearmint has mild sedative properties, making it beneficial in reducing stress and anxiety levels. Its aroma is used in aromatherapy to promote relaxation and mental clarity. Drinking spearmint tea or using spearmint essential oil in a diffuser can help calm the nerves and promote a sense of well-being.

This material is meticulously processed and cleaned by hand. Please take a look at our Hand Processing Herbs page for more information.