PLANT PROFILE : Peppermint ~ Mentha piperita
Description
Part of the Lamiacaea family, Peppermint is a perennial plant with opposite leaves and hairy stems. The flowers are purple and bloom from mid-summer to autumn. Peppermint has a strong characteristic scent with an aromatic and cooling taste profile. Not to be confused with common Mint.
Habitat and Cultivation
Prefers rich, damp, well-drained soils and dies back in winter. Frost resistant and drought tender.
Parts Used
Leaves or aerial parts just prior to flowering.
Active Constituents / Volatile oils (menthol), flavonoids, Vitamins A, C, Niacin, Iron, Magnesium, Calcium, Potassium, Zinc.
Actions
Carminative – improves digestion and relieves discomfort of flatulence and/or colic
Spasmolytic – counteracts or relieves spasmodic pains
Choleretic – stimulates the production of bile in the liver
Diaphoretic – increases perspiration and elimination through the skin
Anti-emetic – reduces or prevents nausea
Therapeutics
Widely used for soothing upsets of the digestive system, particularly spasms and indigestion. Peppermint helps to reduce inflammation in the respiratory tract and alleviate nausea. A calming herb, Peppermint is also useful for decreasing nervous tension and aiding sleep.
Safety / Contraindications / Interactions
The neat essential oil should not be applied directly to skin.
Traditional Uses
In ancient Rome, Peppermint was placed under pillows to bring the sleeper good dreams.
Egyptians buried Peppermint with the deceased to protect them on their journey into the afterlife.
In the older Asian cultures, rolling peppermint in a scroll then passing on to someone else was considered a sign of friendship and love.
Peppermint was worn as a wreath around the head to alleviate hangovers.
References;
Materia Medica of Western Herbs by Carole Fisher
Herbs and Natural Supplements; An evidence-based guide 3rd edition by Lesley Braun and Marc Cohen
A Clinical Guide to Blending Liquid Herbs by Kerry Bone
The Constituents of Medicinal Plants by Andrew Pengelly