Latin Name
Mentha piperita

General Description
Peppermint plants, which reach a height of 2 feet or more, have stems with a purplish cast; long, serrated leaves; and a familiar minty aroma. This pleasant-tasting herb has been used as a remedy for indigestion since the era of ancient Egypt. Menthol, the principal active ingredient of peppermint, stimulates the stomach lining, thereby reducing the amount of time food spends in the stomach. It also relaxes the muscles of the digestive system. Peppermint can be grown easily from root cuttings; but if it is not confined, it tends to spread rapidly.

Target Ailments

• Cramps (including menstrual), stomach pain, heartburn, gas, nausea associated with migraine headaches, morning sickness, travel sickness, insomnia, anxiety, fever, colds and flu. (Taken internally.)
  
• Itching and inflammation. (A few drops applied externally.)

Preparations
Over the counter:
Peppermint is available as commercial tea, tinctures and fresh or dried leaves and flowers.

At home:
Tea: Commercial brands consumed, or 1 to 2 heaping tsp. dried herb per cup of boiling water steeped for 10 minutes.
Bath: A cloth bag filled with several handfuls of dried or fresh herb and hot water run over it.
Combinations: For colds and flu, peppermint may be used as a tea or tincture with boneset, elder flower and yarrow.

Special Information

• WARNING: Do not ingest pure menthol or pure peppermint; these substances are extremely toxic. Pure peppermint may cause cardiac arrhythmias, and pure menthol can be fatal in a dose as small as a teaspoon.
  
• Give only very dilute preparations to children younger than 2 years old and only under the supervision of a doctor or an herbalist.
  
• Pregnant women with morning sickness should use a diluted tea rather than a more potent infusion. Peppermint should not be used by women who have a history of miscarriage.