In a glass of tea or atop a tart, mint reveals its one-of-a-kind aromas. Behind this familiar herb lies a rich botanical genus: mints are perennial herbaceous plants of the Lamiaceae family, cultivated since antiquity as aromatic, culinary, ornamental or medicinal plants. They are credited with digestive virtues and mood-lifting effects that modern medicine continues to explore. Here is an overview of mint's benefits, its uses and how to grow it in the garden.
A rich and diverse botanical family
Mints form a genus of perennial herbaceous plants belonging to the Lamiaceae family. This genus includes many species grown as aromatic, culinary, ornamental or medicinal plants.
Since antiquity, mints have charmed us with their remarkable aromatic qualities. Some species have acquired considerable economic value in recent decades.
Among the 18 species currently recognised, three dominate the global market: Mentha aquatica, M. canadensis and M. spicata. Their hybrids (M. X gracilis, M. X piperita, M. X villosonervata) round out this essential-oil production.
What are the benefits of mint for digestion?
Mint has well-established digestive virtues. It soothes the stomach and stimulates the production of bile thanks to its concentration of iron and its vitamin C. This action naturally supports digestion.
Mint also curbs acid reflux and effectively fights bad breath. Its antispasmodic, carminative, antiseptic, tonic and stimulant properties contribute to overall digestive balance. It thus joins other natural treasures prized for vitality, such as the benefits of pollen, that superfood of the hive.
Instant, natural well-being
You need only walk through a field of mint to feel its positive effects on your mood. This natural therapy acts quickly on our mental well-being.
Modern medicine regularly uncovers new benefits in this age-old plant. Mint improves overall vigour and plays an active part in our physiological balance.
The global production of mint essential oils
Four species dominate the economic development of the extracted oils:
- Japanese mint (Mentha canadensis)
- Peppermint (M. X piperita)
- Spearmint (M. spicata)
- Scotch spearmint (Mentha x Gracilis Sole)
India currently produces 50,000 tonnes of mint essential oil. This output surpasses that of Japan, the historic leader of the first half of the 20th century, and then of Brazil.
Culinary and commercial uses of mint
In drinks
Mint flavours many drinks. Mint spirit, mint liqueur and mint syrup either tint cocktails artificially green or remain colourless.
Classic cocktails such as the mint julep and the mojito make the most of these refreshing aromas. In France and Belgium, the blend of pastis, mint syrup and water goes by the name “perroquet” (parrot). Mint shares this dual calling — at once aromatic and full of character — with other flavourful plants such as the jalapeño, that Mexican chilli with a thousand virtues.
In commercial cultivation
Four mints are the subject of developed commercial cultivation, depending on the region of the world:
| Country | Mints cultivated |
|---|---|
| United States | Peppermint, Scotch spearmint and native spearmint |
| India | Mentha canadensis, peppermint, Scotch spearmint and spearmint |
| China | Mentha canadensis, Scotch spearmint and spearmint |
How to grow mint in your garden
This plant tolerates frequent pruning and enjoys moist soil in partial shade. That said, it adapts easily to other conditions.
One word of caution, though: mint can become invasive. To limit its spread through stolons, mark out its growing area. Sink a rigid barrier (slate, bricks, metal) at least 35 cm deep.
Japanese mint, the main source of natural menthol
Japanese mint resembles the European field mint. Nevertheless, it contains far more natural menthol. This aroma flavours cigarettes, chewing gum, drinks, oral hygiene products, cosmetics and medicines.
Asia cultivates this variety on a massive scale, as it provides the world's main commercial source of natural menthol.
A medicinal plant thousands of years old
Mint ranks among the most famous medicinal plants. The Mediterranean basin has used it since antiquity for its many therapeutic virtues. It is thus part of the long tradition of the health benefits of plants.
Today, modern science confirms and enriches this ancestral knowledge. Mint continues to reveal new benefits for our health and well-being.
