KYI | Peppermint

By Organic Fusion Kitchen

Peppermint, freshness and digestion support

The benefits of peppermint a wide reaching, peppermint is much more than just a refreshing breeze, as it is also packed with dietary fibre, folates, vitamin A and C, folate, calcium, iron, manganese, as well as zinc. Peppermint is one of the key herbs for mouth, skin, hair, and body treatment.

"As for the garden of mint, the very smell of it alone recovers and refreshes our spirits, as the taste stirs up our appetite for meat."

Pliny the Elder

OFK Chefs Corner Tip

Peppermint is a beautiful fresh and dried, and we recommend it for tea, drinks and broth, as well as boosting your cooking. High quality peppermint is very potent and particular, paring it with the right types of ingredients is therefore key. We find it works best with tomato, honey, cheese, salads, lamb and game, as well as obviously African, Asian and Indian cuisine in general.

Did you know this about peppermint?

Many believe that origins of mint can be found in Northern Africa. Archaeologists have found that mint had been dried 3000 years ago in the Egyptian pyramids. Egyptians were also know to appreciate essential oils.

Peppermint is probably most hailed for its ability to promote digestion, but it is also great for it calming anti-stress and skin care capability. No surprise either that it is great for treating bad breath.

Peppermint tea stays fresh for long due to its antioxidant properties, but it needs to be stored in an air-tight container. If it is not stored in an air-tight container, it loses its aroma and flavour quite quickly.

Remember to give peppermint plenty of space to grow. This natural hybrid of watermint and spearmint can grow like crazy underground if enjoys its surroundings. The roots literally have a life and mind of its own.

Active Ingredients & Health Benefits

Peppermint has been grown and used since ancient times for both food and medicinal purposes. The key active substances of peppermint are found in the essential oils of the plant. Out of these especially menthol has a soothing effect and counteracts inflammation and pain. Peppermint brings relief to stomach aches and ailments, muscle pain and indigestion. It relieves the symptoms of hay fever, opens the airways, improves memory and concentration, reduces headaches and stress, and crucially protects cells and DNA from radiation.

Folklore & Legend

In Greek mythology, mint got its name because Hades affair with a nymph named Minthe. When his wife found out about his infidelity, she chose to humiliate her. She cursed Minthe, which made her turn into a common plant, more specifically weed, which would always be trampled on by people. Hades found the curse too harsh, so he chose to soften it by giving the weed a sweet scent with cooling and calming effects. This subtle adjustment to the curse would remind anyone who stepped on Minthe of her presence.

Things To Be Mindful Of

Large amounts of peppermint may raise blood pressure, cause stomach pain, as well as drowsiness and even lead to shortness of breath.

Peppermint is not recommended for children under 2-3 years of age due to possible sensitivity to menthol. Large amounts of peppermint can increase the risk of miscarriage, so pregnant women are advised to be careful when using the herb. Hypersensitivity to the plant's essential oil can cause skin symptoms and the essential oil should not be used internally.