Peppermint (Mentha x piperita)

Peppermint (Mentha x piperita) :

  Peppermint is one of the strongest acting members of the mint family, yet is still safe for the general population. As an aromatic digestant that is also an anodyne, peppermint is able to soothe indigestion and relieve gas as well as alleviate pain associated with these digestive complaints. I like to harvest peppermint just before or just as it is flowering. 

    I leave at least six inches above the ground, so that more growth will sprout that growing season. The stems and leaves can be used

for tea. I’ve been to several locations where the mint had jumped out of its original container and was growing thickly in the lawn. It created a wonderful smell as I walked and played in these minty fields. Its strong and delightful smell can freshen breath and the steam from the tea can be inhaled to relieve sinus congestion. The essential oil of peppermint is a strong pain reliever and can be used topically to relieve muscle spasms and pain associated with diabetic feet.
   Richo Cech recommends a strong brew of peppermint tea or tincture for relieving stubborn hiccups.
    Like a lot of mints it is used traditionally for colds and the flu, especially in cases of fever associated with clammy skin that is cool to the touch. It is often combined with elderflower and yarrow – a very old recipe that goes back centuries.
    In his book The Earthwise Herbal Matthew Wood quotes Eva Graf as recommending spearmint in place of peppermint for use with infants. She further notes that daily use of peppermint can overly relax the peristaltic actions of the colon, and because of this does not recommend it after dinner.
Externally peppermint can be used to soothe itching and  inflammation of the skin such as mosquito bites and rashes. Internally peppermint is contra-indicated for those people with acid reflux and other similar issues in the esophagus.

Peppermint Bath Herb :
• Option #1 Begin by making a strong tea or infusion from  peppermint.
For a bath I like to make a quart infusion (two ounces steeped for at least 30 minutes.) 

 • To add to my bath I strain the plant material and add the liquid to the water. The more bath water there is, the more diluted the end result. 

 • Option #2 For direct application I make a cup full by steeping two tablespoons in a cup for at least 30 minutes. With both of these methods be sure to cover the container while steeping. 

 • To apply directly, soak a washcloth with the tea and lay over the affected area, or simply use it to wash the affected area.