Mint

by Mary Loan

There are numerous varieties of mint (Menthe species), including spearmint, peppermint, ginger mint, chocolate mint, pineapple mint and several others. Mint is an aromatic, low-growing and easily spreading perennial herb that is considered easy to grow.  The documented history of mint cultivation dates back to 1550 B.C. in Egypt and has spread world-wide since. Mint plants thrive in full sun to partial shade. It is recommended to use cuttings from the top 5-6 inches of the plant, soak them in water until root sprouts appear then plant them in a mostly sunny location that has a water source to keep the soil and plant moist, but not waterlogged. It is advised to poke the soil and water only when the top inch is dry.  Mint grows in poor soil or rich as long as the location is well draining. Adding compost and mulch helps to keep the soil moist.  Mint is considered to be invasive as the plants spread via their shallow root system and can easily take over space in your garden.  Growing plants in containers helps to keep the mint plants from invading the rest of your garden.  Regular pruning helps to encourage bushy growth and the mint can be used for making beverages such as hot or iced tea.  It is advised to space the plants from 18 to 24 inches apart.  If you are growing several varieties of mint it is better to space them further apart. 

While you are enjoying mint in beverages and food using mint leaves, you will also be improving your health.  Mint plants contain antioxidants, fiber, vitamins A and C, calcium, iron, folate and manganese.

Mint has been used for many centuries to promote good oral and digestive health.  It is antibiotic and antiviral and helps to calm allergies and to sooth the common cold as the leaves contain menthol.

It is easy to make hot or iced tea from mint leaves. Simply clip a handful of fresh mint leaves or slightly less dried mint leaves, add to a teapot filled with boiling hot water and steep for 5 minutes, add sweetener if desired.  Drink hot or allow to cool and add ice for iced mint tea.

Mint is an ingredient in a South Indian rice recipe called Pudina rice.  It is made by mincing mint, cilantro, green chilies, garlic and ginger then sauteing the mixture to blend into hot rice before serving.