Peppermint

About Peppermint

A hybrid of watermint and spearmint, first identified in England around 1700. The US produces 70% of the worlds peppermint oil, mostly from Oregon and Washington. It contains 40% menthol, which is a natural analgesic and cooling agent. It is more effective than placebo for irritable bowel syndrome in clinical studies. The oil kills mosquito larvae more effectively than DEET. It spreads aggressively via underground runners. It is used in everything from toothpaste to chocolate. Peppermint tea is one of the most consumed herbal teas worldwide. It repels mice and rats. Over 95% of peppermint oil is used in flavoring and fragrance.