Characteristics of Spearmint

Spearmint (Mentha spicata), also known as Roman mint, is an aromatic herb with upright, square stems and oval, pointed green leaves with serrated edges. During the summer months the plant blooms with white and purple flowers. It belongs to the same family as peppermint and usually reaches 50 centimeters in height, but with proper care it can grow up to 1 meter. It lives for about 10 years and originates from Europe and regions of Western Asia. It thrives in warm climates and needs plenty of sunlight to produce quality essential oil. Spearmint is known to help with insomnia, migraines, palpitations, dizziness, spasms and to combat gingivitis. It is used in the preparation of herbal teas and cocktails such as mojito. It is also a key ingredient in confectionery, cooking, oral care products and pharmacy.

History of Mint

Mint was very popular among the ancient Greeks because of its many beneficial properties. People of that time used mint leaves as a fragrance and as a medicine for good digestion. They rubbed mint leaves on the table to stimulate the appetite. Hippocrates and Galen recommended the use of mint to combat indigestion, bloating and cough. Mint tea was extremely popular among Eastern peoples and Arabs.
Mint is rich in antioxidant substances and phytonutrients. Its essential oil has antibacterial action and is still used today as a preservative in foods. It significantly helps improve the digestion of legumes and dairy products when it accompanies a meal.

Ingredients

Essential oil of spearmint from the leaves, flowers and tender shoots of the plant, obtained by steam distillation.

Chemical composition of peppermint essential oil

40.8% carvone, 20.8% limonene, 1, 8-cineole, β-myrcene, monoterpenes, 2.2% β-pinene,
menthone, piperitone, isomenthone.

Directions for use
- Used in soap making, in products for oily skin, and in oral hygiene.
- In an oil burner add a few drops of peppermint and lemon essential oil for a cool and fresh atmosphere in your space.
- For colds, add peppermint and eucalyptus essential oil to a warm bath to open your airways.
- Summer body mist: Mix 4 drops of peppermint essential oil and 3 drops of bergamot in 100 ml of water. Shake well before each use and spray from a distance.

Chinese medicine

In TCM, the cool nature of mint is recommended for the lung, stomach, spleen and liver meridians. It expels hot wind, moves vital energy and calms the Shen spirit. Massage with peppermint essential oil on specific acupuncture points significantly improves digestion and helps relieve menstrual cramps and irritable bowel symptoms.

Useful tips

- The use of essential oils should be avoided during pregnancy, breastfeeding and by small children.
- Avoid direct contact with skin, eyes and mouth.
- Always use essential oils diluted in a carrier oil or other medium.