Spearmint (Mentha spicata Syn. Even if the name is not that common, spearmint is arguably the most commonly used of the mint varieties. It is this type of mint that gives toothpaste, chewing gum or sweets their minty taste. It originally comes from Europe but is now also widespread in large parts of Asia and Africa.
Is spearmint the same as regular mint?
It’s most widespread use is Wrigley’s® Spearmint Gum. Peppermint’s flavor is similar to spearmint, but it contains the ingredient menthol, making its flavor stronger and more pronounced. Both spearmint and peppermint have menthol in them but peppermint contains a higher menthol content (40% versus . 05% in spearmint).
What is another name for spearmint?
Spearmint, also known as garden mint, common mint, lamb mint and mackerel mint, is a species of mint, Mentha spicata, native to Europe and southern temperate Asia, extending from France in the west to southern China in the east.
Is spearmint or peppermint better?
Both are used in cooking, have medicinal purposes, and make for great essential oils and tea. Both also have square stems and spear-shaped leaves. However, when it comes down to it, spearmint is better in savory dishes while peppermint is better used for a chocolate dessert.
What type of mint is sold in supermarkets?
Spearmint
Spearmint and peppermint are the two most common and widely available of the many mint species. Of the two, spearmint is the one almost always sold in grocery stores and markets.
What is the best mint for cooking?
Spearmint. Spearmint is most commonly used in cooking for many recipes, including lamb, vegetables, and of course, mint juleps and mojitos.
What can I use spearmint leaves for?
Uses for Mint Leaves
- Make your own mint syrup. Mint syrup can be used to flavor your summer drinks, snow cones, desserts and more.
- Perk up your pesto.
- Utilize as an insect repellent.
- Chew for fresh breath.
- Give your potatoes some pop.
- Fancy up your beverages.
- Spice up your salads.
- Give your butter a boost.
What bugs does spearmint repel?
Spearmint and peppermint are often noted for their ability to repel flies, fleas, and spiders in the garden. One thing to keep in mind when planting mint is that it is an invasive plant and will spread quickly.
Can you chew spearmint leaves?
Mint leaves are generally safe for consumption, however people with gastroesophageal reflux disease should minimize the consumption as it may cause stomach irritation. Menthol oil is contraindicated in children to use topically as it may cause breathing difficulties.
What is the sweetest type of mint?
1. Apple Mint. Apple mint, Mentha suaveolens, is sweeter than most other mint varieties.
What type of mint is best for tea?
Peppermint
The two varieties used most often for tea are Peppermint and Spearmint. Both boast properties long celebrated in the ancient medicinal cultures of the world and are actually closely related.
Does spearmint plant repel mosquitoes?
Spearmint and peppermint are reputed to work well against insects like mosquitoes, flies, and spiders, making them ideal for the backyard garden.
Which is the best mint?
Spearmint (Mentha spicata) is the best garden mint, especially with peas.
Does spearmint settle your stomach?
Spearmint may also contribute to a healthier stomach and alleviate symptoms like nausea. Spearmint tea may be able to help your stomach muscles relax, helping these and other digestive problems subside. Spearmint tea may also help improve your memory.
Can I use spearmint instead of mint?
If you are looking for a really intense minty flavor in a dish, peppermint is the way to go. If you are looking for a milder minty flavor that won’t overwhelm your dish, spearmint is the better choice.
Are there any poisonous mint plants?
Perilla mint has a shallow taproot and fibrous roots. Perilla mint causes more cattle deaths in Tennessee than any other toxic plant. Perilla is very poisonous to cattle and other ruminants, as well as horses. All plant parts are toxic, especially the flowering structures.
What kind of mint is used in drinks?
Spearmint
Spearmint is the most common type of mint used in American cocktails (there are hundreds of species within the family), though Voisey says the plant grows pretty much anywhere in the world.
Does mint grow back every year?
Mint is frost tolerant. It usually dies back in the winter but comes back in spring. Because mint tends to take over, many gardeners plant mint in a small pot and then plant that pot in the ground or inside a larger container.
What is the most common mint?
Spearmint (Mentha spicata Syn.
Even if the name is not that common, spearmint is arguably the most commonly used of the mint varieties.
What can I do with mint stems?
One advantage mint stems have over the leaves is that they freeze very well. Midwinter you can pull them out of the freezer and throw them into pots of white beans or whole grains or add them when you steam fish. If you’re going for aesthetics, by all means stick with the leaves.
Can I drink spearmint tea everyday?
Spearmint extract has most often been used by adults at a dose of 900 mg by mouth daily for up to 90 days. Spearmint tea has most often been used as two cups daily for up to 16 weeks. Speak with a healthcare provider to find out what dose might be best for a specific condition.