Spearmint Leaf (Mentha spicata)
Information about Spearmint Leaf
Spearmint is a member of the mint family that is widely distributed throughout North America, Europe, Asia and Africa and now naturalized in many other places. The dried leaf is commonly used in Asian and Middle Eastern cuisines. The herb is also tinctured or used to make syrup.
Its common name refers to the spear-shaped leaves that taper to a sharp point.
In Greek mythology, the goddess Persephone, jealous of Pluto's affection for the nymph Minthe, transformed Minthe into the spearmint plant. Pluto, unable to return the lovely nymph to her original form, ensured her that, at least, her fragrance would be enjoyed by all as a pleasant aroma, arising each time it was walked upon. In further consolation, the gods maintained special fields of mint just for bees to enjoy their sweet honey.
Spearmint owes its aroma to a compound known as R-(–)-carvone, and its flavor to trace amounts of menthol. The latter also lends flavor to cocktails like the mint julip, southern sweet tea and toothpaste.
It is considered to be a bee herb. Mythological gods maintained special fields of mint just for bees to enjoy in their prolific honey making.
Mints served as a form of currency in antiquity. Tables were scrubbed with fresh leaves in preparation for feasts. The naturalist Pliny (1 AD) had his students wrap their heads with mint braids to bring delight to the soul, improve the mind, and enhance scholarship. Aristotle prohibited soldiers' use of mint before battles, believing it would diminish their aggressiveness. In the Middle Ages it said to have mystical powers and was used to dispel the evil eye.
In the Middle Ages it was commonly included in what were called strewing herbs, scattered about the floors of dwellings for its delicious fragrance, it also discouraged rodent infestations. Sprigs were kept with stored grains to repel rodents. It was used as a cleansing tonic and to help purify drinking water that had turned stale.
Steam vapor of infused mint has been used to freshen the air in hospitals. Mints were used to scent bath water.
Mint, untaxed by the English government, became a popular tea substitute during the American Revolution. Spearmint then became a significant cash crop in Connecticut. Its popularity returned during the American Civil War when imported black tea was virtually unavailable.
Origin: Egypt
Active Compounds: Volatile oil, Flavonoid thymonin, Caffeic acid, Rosmarinic acid, Carvone, and Limonene.
Plant Part Used: Leaf
Storage Tips: Store in an airtight container in a cool, dark place.
Appearance and Aroma: Leafy with a bright, minty aroma.
Culinary Uses: Prepare as tea, alone or in combination with other herbs.
Flavor Profile: Mint flavored. Goes well with many other herbs and serves as a background or base for tea blends.
Cosmetic Uses:Infuse in oil or tincture for use in making salves, ointments, soaps, lotions and other skin and hair products.
Household Uses: Tinctures or strong infusions may be used in natural cleaning formulas.
Industrial Uses: Spearmint is widely used in the pharmaceutical, cosmetic and food industries.
Safety: Before making any changes to your diet you should always consult with your doctor, especially if you are pregnant, nursing or have existing conditions.
This information is for educational purposes only and has not been evaluated by Health Canada or the Food and Drug Administration. This information is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.