Mint is a square-stemmed annual that grows from 32-36 inches high. It has aromatic leaves and grows almost everywhere. There are two main forms of mint: black mint and white mint. Black mint has violet-colored leaves and stems and a high essential oil content. White mint has pure green leaves and a milder taste.

Mint is digestive, carminative, antispasmodic, cooling, and is a mild stimulant.

Mint leaves contain oil that is high in menthol. This menthol is a relaxant and releases tension from the body’s digestive tract.

Mint is used for digestive problems such as cramps, bloating, gas, nausea, loss of appetite, and irritable bowel syndrome. It can also be used as a painkiller to treat toothaches, headaches, and migraines. It relieves itching, can be applied to congested skin, relieves the pain of sprains and strains, and helps fight bad breath. Mint is also very good for treating coughs, colds, and fevers.

Capsules may cause a sensation of rectal burning. Large doses can cause gastrointestinal upsets and seizures.

Avoid mint if you have heartburn, acid reflux, gallstones, gallbladder disease, biliary duct disease, liver disease, or ulcers. Do not give the oil to children. Avoid large doses during pregnancy.

Mint was widely used by the Romans and Egyptians.

This plant grows everywhere.

Leaves.

Tea and tincture.