Peppermint

Mentha piperita

Common name: Peppermint

Family: Lamiaceae

Part used: Leaf

Habitat: Little known factoid: Peppermint (Mentha piperita) is a hybrid mint, believed to be a cross between Watermint and Spearmint. It is a perennial herb, dying back in the winter and enjoying sunny positions with rich, damp well drained soils. Peppermint is cultivated very widely and many variants have been bred. 

Constituents: Volatile oil 1-3% mainly menthol, menthone anf menthyl acetate. Flavonoids (approx 12%), phenolic acids, bitter principle. 

Actions: Antipuritic, antiseptic, anti-emetic, carminative, choleretic, diaphoretic, spasmolytic

Traditional and current uses: 

• Nervous tension
• Insomnia
• Vertigo (seek advice about the cause)
• Cholecystitis, flatluence, dyspepsia, ulcerative colitis, indigestion, colic, IBS, cholelithiasis, Crohn's disease, vomiting (safe in pregnancy but use as a tea rather than tincture)
• Colds, flu, fevers (diaphoretic)

Disclaimer: The information on this website is provided for educational use only, and is not intended as a replacement for the services of a qualified medical herbalist, doctor or licensed health practitioner. The information contained herein is not diagnostic, always consult a medical health professional before embarking on a treatment programme. Urban Fringe Dispensary disclaims any liability, loss, injury or damage incurred as a consequence of the use and application of the advice given herein.