Mint
Mint is a plant found in many of the Pagès herbal infusions and teas.
Mint, a plant with a rich history and a fresh taste so characteristic
Origins of mint
Mint, under its general name because it is present in many varieties, was known and appreciated by the Ancients. The Assyrians and Babylonians used it to fight laziness and the Hebrews as a stimulant. Dioscorides used it for stomach weakness.
In the 19th century, Trousseau recommended it not only against vomiting, but also against incoherent coughing quinteuses. But its virtues are not only digestive and antispasmodic. If Hippocrates and Aristotle considered it anaphrodisiac, Dioscorides and Matthiole thought the opposite. Leclerc, along with others, considered Mint to be a stimulant "very suitable for love games".
More generally in Antiquity, the Mint had an almost magical symbolism, it is said that it could cure the evils of the soul, give courage, help beneficial actions to be realized, etc..
Characteristics of mint
Name: Mentha spicata
Family: Lamiaceae
Species: Perennial plant
Mint is a perennial plant native to Europe. It can now be found all over the world. There are about 69 species of Mint, many of which are hybridized. Among these species are more than 600 varieties of Mint. The best known being the Aquatic Mint (Mentha aquatica), Fields Mint (Mentha canadensis), Bergamot Mint (Mentha citrata), Deer Mint (Mint Cervina), Horse Mint (Mentha longifolia), Spearmint (Mentha spicata), Pepper Mint (Mentha piperita) and Corsican Mint (Mentha requienii).
Mint is a perennial herbaceous plant known and appreciated for its aromatic qualities. It has also been used since ancient times for its virtues. It is easy to grow, as long as it has moist soil and regular sunshine. It can even become invasive in a garden where it pleases! The whole plant spreads an aromatic and penetrating scent.
Uses of mint
Mint is an excellent condiment, chopped raw in salads or in various dishes. It can also be used to flavour creams, custards, fruit salads and drinks. Mint essential oil and menthol are widely used in pharmaceuticals, perfumery, confectionery and the liquor industry.
Mint is also found in slimming cures. However, Mint should be seen as an ally to the body, not as a slimming active ingredient.
Mint has very intense refreshing flavours. It is therefore often found in product compositions to keep breath fresh.
Mint leaves can be consumed in hot or cold drinks. Indeed, the famous Mojito alcoholic cocktail is no longer a Mojito without Mint! Similarly, Mint is often found in hot beverages such as herbal infusions and teas.
Benefits of mint
It is said to be able to increase bile production and, thanks to the menthol that is strongly present in the plant, is a good antiseptic. It is also recommended for painful digestion. This information is validated by ESCOP. It also recommends distilled Mint essential oil in case of digestive disorders, coughs and colds.
Other perfumed plants are often mixed, such as Rosemary, Thyme, Sage, etc. These associations of plants are found in the use of aromatic baths.
