Herbs of the Mint Family

The mint family is also known as Lamiaceae , and contains approximately 6900 to 7200 species. Many of the herbs of the mint family are known for their strong and pleasant aroma. Basil, thyme, lavender, peppermint, spearmint and rosemary are some of the common species of herbs of the mint family that have found a wide range of applications in human society.

Spearmint

The botanical name of spearmint is mentha spicata. It is a common herb of the mint family and is a native of Europe and Southwest Asia. This herb grows abundantly in wet soils of all temperate climates. It usually grows to a length of 30 to 100 cm with hairy or hairless stem and serrated leaves. Spearmint oil is widely used as a flavoring agent in chewing gum, confectionery, toothpaste and several pharmaceutical products. It is considered a valuable herb for its medicinal properties and is mainly used in alleviating a number of ailments including fever, bronchitis, headache, nasal congestion, and hysteria.

Peppermint

Peppermint is actually not a species, but a hybrid of the watermint and the spearmint species. It is perhaps one of the oldest herbs used for medicinal purposes, dating back almost 10,000 years. It contains a high level of menthol and is used as a flavoring agent in tea, ice cream, toothpaste and confectionery. Nowadays, it is also used in many shampoos and soaps. Peppermint is also used in relieving stomach cramps, indigestion, anxiety, nasal congestion, headache, menstrual cramps, nausea, vomiting, etc. The plant usually reaches a height of 30 to 90 cm and has a smooth stem and serrated dark green leaves.

Basil

Basil is another herb of the mint family that is prominently used in Italian cuisine. There are many varieties of basil, out of which the American, French, Egyptian and Indian basil are the major types. It is mainly used for flavoring soups, meat and fish dishes. Besides this, as a flavoring agent it has found many applications in different food items and in dental and oral products. The plant has a great significance in Indian culture, and is termed as the 'holy basil'.

Thyme

Thyme is a well-known herb of the mint family with several culinary and medicinal uses. In ancient Egypt, it was the herb used for embalming in mummification or the creation of mummies, while ancient Greeks used it in their bath and as incense in their temples. The strong flavor of thyme can be attributed to the high concentration of thymol. Thyme is an essential ingredient of the French, Greek, Italian, Spanish and Persian cuisines. It is also used in mouthwashes for its antiseptic properties. Besides these, it is beneficial in removing fungal infection of the toenails. Thyme tea is commonly used in relieving cough and bronchial problems.

Rosemary

Rosemary is a woody herb with needle-shaped leaves and is a native to the Mediterranean region, Spain and Portugal. The name is derived from the Latin word, rosmarinus, which means 'dew of the sea', probably for its abundance near the sea. Rosemary is a very rich source of iron, calcium and vitamin B6. The plant has been cherished for a long time for its presumed effect on improving memory. Some recent studies have also indicated that the plant contains carnosic acid, which is a powerful antioxidant that can protect the brain from free radicals and lower the risk of stroke and neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer's and Lou Gehrig's diseases. It is traditionally used as a digestive aid and stimulant.

Lavender

Lavender is a flowering plant of the mint family and is native to the Mediterranean countries and India. The plant usually grows to a height of 60 cm with erect woody branches and violet flowers. It is widely used in aroma therapy to provide relief in a number of health problems. Due to its soothing and anti-convulsive effects, it is widely used in alleviating restlessness, anxiety, depression and insomnia.

The hundreds of varieties of the mint family have been used as herbal medicines for treating several diseases and disorders from time immemorial. Several studies conducted in this regard have also disclosed the potential benefits of many of these herbs in containing various diseases. However, studies have also cautioned against consuming an excessive amount of mint herbs. Therefore, it is always advisable to consult a health expert before using these herbs for medicinal purposes.