DESCRIPTION

A herbaceous plant that grows to a height of 50cm, with erect quadrangular stems that are covered with very fine hairs.

It has long, elliptical leaves with slightly serrated edges that are arranged in opposite pairs. These are dark green on the upper side and paler on the lower side.

Flowers may be white or violet and clustered in separate whorls along the stem.

It is a very aromatic plant with a spicy or sharp flavour. Mint is a plant that grows in crops, however sometimes it is unexpectedly found on embankments and near to gardens; reproduction is normally by stolons.

COLLECTION AND PRESERVATION

During the summer months. 

PART USED

The leaves and flower heads. 

ACTIVE INGREDIENTS

The whole plant contains an essential oil made from menthol, menthone and other terpenic derivatives. It also contains flavonoides and phenylcarboxy acids.

PROPERTIES AND INSTRUCTIONS

Mint has the following actions: gastrointestinal spasmolytic and analgesic, choleretic, cholagogue; carminative and antipruritic.

Indications approved by ESCOP are: Used for the symptomatic treatment of digestive disorders such as dyspepsia, flatulence and gastritis.

COMMON USE

As a nasal decongestant and mucolytic. As an inhaler: for illnesses that affect the respiratory tract (sinusitis, bronchitis, colds, etc.)

PRECAUTIONS

If suffering from gallstones, Mint as a drug must not be used unless prescribed by a doctor.

COMBINATIONS

I has been said that "mint to medicinal plants is like salt in the kitchen", as it combines with virtually everything. It can be found as part of digestive herbal teas, preparations for respiratory problems, etc., as well as in any type of herbal tea as an organoleptic corrector.

PRESENTATION

It usually comes in the form of dry leaves or essential oil.

DID YOU KNOW ?

A homemade liqueur can be made by leaving mint and camomile to soak in spirit for 40 days. Sugared water can be added to reduce the alcohol level, making an excellent digestive.