Characteristics of Spearmint

Spearmint (Mentha spicata), also known as Roman mint, is an aromatic herb with upright, square stems and oval, pointed, green leaves with serrated edges. During the summer months, the plant blooms with white and purple flowers. It belongs to the same family as mint and usually reaches 50 centimeters in height but with proper care it can reach 1 meter. It lives about 10 years and is native to Europe and parts of Western Asia. It thrives in warm climates and needs a lot of sunshine to produce quality essential oil. It is known that spearmint helps with insomnia, migraines, palpitations, dizziness, spasms, and fights gingivitis. It is used in the preparation of herbal teas and cocktails such as mojito. It is also a key ingredient in confectionery, cooking, oral hygiene products, and pharmacology.

History of Mint

Mint was very popular among the ancient Greeks due to its many beneficial properties. People of the time used mint leaves as a fragrance and medicine for good digestion. They rubbed mint leaves on the table to improve appetite. Hippocrates and Galen recommended the use of mint to combat indigestion, bloating and cough. Mint tea was extremely popular among the Eastern peoples and the Arabs.
Mint is rich in antioxidants and phytonutrients. Mint essential oil has antibacterial properties and is still used today as a preservative in foods. It significantly helps in better digestion of legumes and dairy products when accompanied by a meal.

Ingredients

Mint essential oil from the leaves, flowers and tender branches of the plant using the hydrodistillation method.

Chemical composition of peppermint essential oil

40.8% carvone, 20.8% limonene, 1, 8-cineole, β-myrcene, monoterpenes, 2.2% β-pinene,
menthone, piperitone, isomenthone.

Instructions for use
- It is used in the manufacture of soaps, in products for oily skin, and in oral hygiene.
- In a diffuser, add a few drops of mint and lemon essential oil for a cool and fresh atmosphere in your space.
- For colds, add peppermint and eucalyptus essential oil to a warm bath to open your airways.
- Summer body mist: Mix 4 drops of mint essential oil and 3 drops of bergamot in 100 ml of water. Shake well before each use and spray from a distance.

Chinese medicine

The cooling nature of mint in Acupuncture is recommended for the meridians of the lungs, stomach, spleen and liver. It expels hot air, moves vital energy and calms the spirit Shen. Massaging with mint essential oil on specific acupuncture points significantly improves digestion and treats menstrual cramps and irritable bowel symptoms.

Useful tips

- The use of essential oils should be avoided during pregnancy, breastfeeding and by young children.
- Avoid direct contact with skin, eyes and mouth.
- Always use essential oils dissolved in a base oil or other catalyst.