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Mint

Latin Name: Mentha
Spearmint: Mentha spicata L. / Peppermint: Mentha piperita L.

Geographic Source: United States, Europe, Middle East

Description:
Mint is the dried leaf of a perennial herb. There are two important species, Peppermint and Spearmint.

Taste and Aroma:
Mint is strong and sweet with a tangy flavor and a cool after taste.

History:
Spearmint and peppermint are both native to Asia. Peppermint was used by Egyptians, and spearmint is mentioned in the Bible. Spearmint grew wild in the United States after the 1600s, and peppermint was cultivated commercially before the Civil War.

Uses:
A Perennial. All mints are perennial and are used for both cooking and medicinally. They are easily hybridized and are invasive if the plant is not contained. Mint flavors drinks, candy, cigarettes, toothpaste and medicine. Mint aids digestion and treats stomach complaints. Peppermint in particular has additional antiseptic, antiviral and sweat inducing properties.

Types:

• Chocolate ~ Latin Name: Mentha x peperita x M - bronze foliage with a chocolate-mint fragrance.
• Grapefruit ~ Latin Name: Mentha citriodoro x M arvensis - grapefruit scent with crinkled green leaves.
• Kentucky Colonel Spearmint ~ Latin Name: Mentha spicata var. - delicious spearmint flavor. Large leaves, great for Mint Juleps and Iced Tea.
• Lemon Bergamot ~ Latin Name: Mentha x peperita V. citrata - lemonmint flavor.
• Orange ~ Latin Name: Mentha x peperita var. - good for tea, has an orange-citrus flavor.
• Peppermint ~ Latin Name: Mentha peperita var. - small pointed dark green leaves with a strong peppermint flavor.
• Pineapple ~ Latin Name: Mentha suaveolens Variegata - pineapple-mint scented with variegated leaves.

Note: The information provided is for educational purposes only. Do not consider this information complete.

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