The History of the Mint Plant

Mint: Myth, Medicine, and Cuisine

Mint (Mentha) is a perennial herb with square stems, jagged leaves, and unmistakable aroma when crushed. Grows aggressively in shade to part sun, average soil. Leaves and stems used fresh or dried.

Mythological Origins

Named for Minthe, a nymph in Greek mythology—Pluto's girlfriend. Jealous Persephone turned her into a ground-clinging plant. Pluto couldn't reverse it but gave her the power to sweeten air when crushed.

Historical Uses

• Stomach/digestion aid
• Breath freshener
• Dried leaves whitened teeth
• Pest repellent

Still used in medicine, beauty products, food, teas, and landscaping.

Identification

• Square stems (not round)
• Jagged leaf edges
• Distinct mint odor when crushed
• Some variegated/fuzzy leaves
• Family includes catnip, horehound (not always considered "mint")

Geography

Grows worldwide except permanently frozen regions. Prefers moist soil, afternoon shade in heat. Dies back to roots if dry, regrows when favorable. Invasive in some gardens. Grows indoors in sunny windows.

Common Culinary Types

Spearmint, peppermint, chocolate mint, pineapple mint, apple mint, orange mint, Swiss mint. Hundreds of varieties exist; cross-pollination creates undocumented types. Not all are groundcovers—mountain mint to 3 ft, lemon/purple horse mint to 4 ft (native, citrusy).