Peppermint, Mentha piperta
Peppermint (Mentha piperta)
$6.50 per plant in 9cm pot
Peppermint (Mentha piperta) is a hybrid from spearmint and watermint that has been around for 300 odd years. It is now one of the most popular tea herbs in the world, for its refreashing-ness and digestive properties. Peppermint grows in a wide range of sites but will grow best in full sun and good drainage. Spreads like other mints but is not as tolerant of water logged situations.
Here’s what David Hoffman has to say about the uses of peppermint in his book The Complete Illustrated Guide to The Holistic Herbal…
“….a relaxing effect on the visceral muscles, anti-flatulent properties and stimulates bile and digestive juice secretion, and so can relieve intestinal colic, flatulent dyspepsia and other associated conditions. the volatile oil acts as a mild anesthetic to the stomach wall, which helps to relieve the vomiting of pregnancy and travel sickness. Peppermint plays a role in the treatment of ulcerative colitis and Crohn’s disease. It is most valuable in the treatment of fevers and especially colds and flu. as an inhalant it can be used as a temporary treatment for nasal catarrh. Where migraine headaches are associated with the digestion, this herb may be used. as a nervine it ease anxiety and tension. In painful periods it relieves the pain and eases tension. Externally it relives itching and inflammations.”