Peppermint – old lithograph showing leaves, flowers, spreading rhizomes
Common Name: Peppermint
Latin name: Mentha peperita
Family: Lamiaceae
Parts used: leaves
Tissue or system affinity: digestive system, nervous system
Taste: pungent
Energetics: cooling & drying
Actions: mild analgesic, antinauseous, carminative, diaphoretic, digestive
Uses: This herb is so commonly known and so legendary, that we know it is safe and effective (and a key herb in anyone’s medicine cabinet). Great for intestinal cramps and gas. Works on the nervous system to ease tension; can relieve tension headaches. Settles the stomach. Good to blend with herbs like yarrow for colds and flus (will help you sweat the flu out). Encourages a clear and uplifted mind (basically, perk up the mind without caffeine). Infuse in vinegar for a mineral-rich vinegar infusion or to use a hair rinse (especially great in the summertime). Great as a tea, glycerite, or tincture. I won’t go into essential oil use because there is enough info out there!
Side note: contraindicated for acid reflux as it relaxes the esophageal sphincter
Lindsay Kolasa 