Mentha herbs or mint

The mint family has more than 600 members and has been esteemed all over the world for thousands of year of its versatility. Today, the two most popular varieties of the mints, peppermint, Mentha piperita and spearmint, Mentha spicata, are grown commercially.

Mint, traditionally regarded as a symbol of hospitality, is said to have been named after Minthe, a nymph in Greek mythology. Pluto the god of the underworld fell in love with her, and his wife Proserpine became so jealous that she transformed her into this scented herb.

Peppermint

Most mints contain respectable amounts of vitamins A and C, plus they are rich in antioxidants. The menthol in mint aids digestion and can even calm intestinal cramps.

The culinary mints such as American apple mint, orange mint, peppermint and spearmint add their delicate flavors to an infinite variety of beverages and foods such as fruit drinks, juleps and other iced beverages,; teas, vinegars and jellies; soups, sauces and vegetables; meats, fish, salads and desserts.

Mint goes well with a range of proteins, including beef, pork, lamb, game, duck and poultry. It can be chopped and incorporated into a stew or used in a side dish, pesto, sauce, or jam to complement the meat.
Mentha herbs or mint