A lesson on Mint, June 8, 2009

Mint!

Mint leaves. From left to right peppermint, Eau de Cologne mint (M. citrata), Japanese mint (M. arvensis var. piperascens, also known as var. japonica), horsemint or silver mint (M. longifolia), Moroccan green mint (M. spicata), pineapple mint (M. suaveolens) and Carinthian mint (M. carinthiaca = M. arvensis x M. suaveolens)

Photo and description from Gernot Katzer's Spice Pages.

I love when I go to my neighbor's house for dinner or a visit, she always offers me mint herbal tea over ice. Made fresh from her garden, I have become fascinated with how good it makes me feel. So, after some poking around I found it has so many wonderful benefits for the body and soul. It is known as the symbol of hospitality in Greek mythology, but that is only the beginning of its many uses.

Mint makes a revitalizing foot scrub or rub. Combine 1 cup of Epsom salt, 1/3 cup olive oil and 6 drops of Peppermint essential oil. Scrub your feet, or better yet, ask someone else to scrub your feet and do the same for them. Rinse and enjoy the tingle!

Lake Austin Spa has a wonderful recipe for taking away dandruff. Add one sprig of mint and of rosemary in 8oz of cider vinegar, let sit for a week, and then use after shampooing.

As a feel good all over, put mint in hot water to steep, then serve hot or over ice. It is fun to play with herb combinations, for a fun summer blend try basil or pineapple juice! Mint soothes the tummy and muscles.

Mint is also know for curbing hunger. Smell or sip tea and it will satisfy you enough to avoid those snack habits. Peppermints are low cal usually and provide the same benefits...but only one please!

At the end of the day, to get the full relaxing benefits of Mint, head over to NE Portland's Mint 829 Restaurant and enjoy a Pan American Bistro with influences from the Pacific North West, the Mediterranean and Latin America. "Located in the historic Frederick Torgler Building, Mint's sleek, yet cushy interior allows the vibrant drinks and cuisine to take center stage, inviting guests to relax and enjoy."

~ MJ
Copyright 2009 MJ's Table Talk