Medicinal plant

Mint

Mentha × piperita

An aromatic digestive for gas, bloating, and upset stomach. Also called Peppermint, Garden Mint.

An aromatic carminative traditionally used for indigestion, gas, bloating, and upset stomach, most often as a tea. This entry covers common culinary mint — peppermint (Mentha × piperita) and spearmint (Mentha spicata) — not pennyroyal (Mentha pulegium), a toxic relative that does not belong in home preparations. Spreads aggressively by underground runners; best grown in a container.

Properties

Aromatic — Rich in aromatic oils that often support digestion or breathing

Carminative — Helps relieve gas, bloating, and digestive discomfort

Antispasmodic — Helps relax cramps, spasms, or tight muscles

Energetics
Cooling Stimulating
Take care May worsen heartburn or acid reflux in some people.
Look alikes This entry covers common culinary mint (peppermint, spearmint) only — do not substitute pennyroyal (Mentha pulegium). Pennyroyal oil is highly toxic when swallowed and has caused severe liver injury, organ failure, and death.
Mint (Mentha × piperita), historical botanical illustration

Growing and using it

Life cycle

Hardy perennial.

What to buy

A common culinary mint — peppermint (Mentha × piperita) or spearmint (Mentha spicata); not pennyroyal (Mentha pulegium).

Best way to start

Nursery plant or a cutting; mint is very easy to propagate from cuttings.