Mint
A familiar flavor that can be quite surprising when used in savory and sweet dishes, mint is a fantastic herb that offers many health benefits.
What is Mint?
Mint is an aromatic herb that comes in hundreds of varieties. It originated in the Mediterranean, but it widely used all over the world.
Mint has a square stem and produces leaves that are typically green, serrated, and oval-shaped, and has small, purple, pink, or white flowers that grow in clusters at the top of the stem during the summer months. The leaves are known for their strong and refreshing aroma, which is due to the presence of essential oils such as menthol.
Mint is not just a single plant, but contains 15-20 species, including peppermint, spearmint, and apple mint. At Area 2 Farms we grow mojito mint, peppermint, spearmint, corsican mint, and chocolate mint.
Mint, like other herbs, can also be dried and used in a variety of ways. But there are several benefits to eating herbs fresh instead of dried; here are three of them:
Better flavor and aroma: Fresh herbs have a stronger and more complex flavor and aroma than dried herbs because their essential oils are more intact. When herbs are dried, some of their essential oils evaporate, which can lead to a loss of flavor and aroma.
More nutrients: Fresh herbs contain more vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants than dried herbs.
Versatility: Fresh herbs can be used in a wider variety of recipes than dried herbs.
How to Prepare Mint
Mint is a versatile herb that pairs well with a variety of foods. Here are some way to prepare mint:
Mint tea: Steep mint leaves in hot water to make a tea.
Mint-infused water: Put mint leaves in a pitcher of water to make a refreshing beverage. Add lemon or cucumber slices and you’ll feel like you’re at the spa.
Mint yogurt: Finely chop mint leaves. In a bowl, mix the chopped mint with Greek yogurt. Add lemon juice, salt, and pepper to taste. Mix well and serve as a dip or sauce for grilled meats and vegetables.
Dessert garnish: Add mint leaves on top of chocolate ice cream or a brownie for a fresh, surprising flavor.
Dried mint: Not going to use all of your fresh mint? To dry the herb, rinse and pat with a paper towel, then bundle them together with an elastic and hang them upside down until dry.
Mint Health Benefits
Here are some of the health benefits of mint:
Digestive health: Mint has been traditionally used to improve digestion and relieve symptoms like indigestion, bloating, and gas.
Respiratory health: Mint's essential oils, particularly menthol, can help to alleviate respiratory symptoms such as congestion, coughs, and sore throats.
Oral health: Mint's antimicrobial properties can freshen bad breath and prevent dental cavities by inhibiting the growth of harmful bacteria in the mouth.
Skin health: Mint's anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties can improve skin health, reduce inflammation, and prevent skin damage caused by free radicals.
Mental health: Mint's refreshing aroma can help improve mood, reduce stress and anxiety, and increase alertness and cognitive function.
Pain relief: Mint's essential oils, particularly peppermint oil, can help alleviate pain and soreness in muscles and joints.
Mint Facts
Mint is a common flavoring in toothpaste, mouthwash, and chewing gum due to its ability to freshen breath and promote oral hygiene.
Mint plants can grow up to three feet tall and spread quickly due to their underground stems, called runners.
The ancient Greeks and Romans believed that mint could stimulate the brain and improve intelligence.
Mint is a natural insect repellent and can help keep bugs away from your garden or home.
Area 2 Farms for Locals
Your food should be equally accessible and nutritious. Which is where we come in. We’re Area 2 Farms, we grow organic produce, deliver it to your door weekly, and operate all within 10 miles of you.
