| |
The Many Varieties Of Mints (Page 1 of 2)
This article was provided by Jennifer Moore Click Here to view more of her articles
Ah mint! We could use it everyday all throughout the year; either in salads, teas, candies or salves. Where would we be without it? The mint family is a large one, with most of us recognizing peppermint, but there are many others that please us.
Mint requires a full-sun to part-shade location and a spot to expand its size without being a nuisance to other plants. It can be successfully grown in containers or in those hard-to-grow areas as it's not fussy with soil or moisture requirements. When you do plant mint, make sure to find its permanent spot, because once established for a season it is very difficult to get rid of.
Peppermint - This is most commonly used in candies at Christmas and salves in chest rubs for colds. It tends to be a "pushy" plant, therefore planting it alone or confined in a large pot sunk into the ground is best. If planted in a pot, be sure to keep the lip of the pot one inch above the ground to confine its runners. It is a wonderfully aromatic plant, just rubbing it as you pass by releases its oils into the air.
It can be used in green teas alone or mixed with other plant leaves; such as lemon balm, chamomile or monarda to help soften the taste. Simply wash the plant leaves under cold water, place into a tea pot and pour over boiling water, allowing it to steep to acquire the strength you desire. It is a plant used to help aid digestion and can alleviate stomach cramps and nausea.
It is also helpful with skin irritations and can be used to stimulate the skin when used in bath water. Simply swish a few stems in the bath water as it is being poured.
Its leaves are round and dark green with smooth edges. Of all the mint plants, it is the only one that likes a moisture-retaining spot, although it can be successfully grown in any garden when given adequate water.
The above article and any related images are the works of the author and may not be reproduced in part or whole without prior written consent.
| |
 |