Mint, Julep - Mentha spicata

Parts used: Leaves, stalks, flowers

Actions and qualities: Anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, stimulating, promotes focus and mental clarity. Helps ease stomach and digestive discomfort, including very quick relief for intense nausea. It is nutrient dense, stress relieving, helps relieve symptoms of the common cold, asthma and breathing problems, and acne. 

Specific uses: This variety of mint has hardy, robust stalks that make great cocktail mixers, and the flavor goes perfect with bourbon. It is commonly added to teas, tinctures, oils, salves, baths and poultices. It is also commonly used in toothpaste, breath fresheners, air fresheners, and deodorants.

Contraindications: It is known to cause dry mouth, heartburn and nausea if taken in large amounts. Pregnant and nursing mothers should consult a physician before use.

History and lore: The name ‘mint’ comes from Greek mythology: Pluto was said to be having an affair with a nymph named Menthe, and when his wife discovered them, she cast Menthe into the lowly plant to punish her for the transgression.