Black Peppermint forms part of the great Mentha family which includes several hundreds of mint species. Peppermint itself is a very commonly used word and a flavour that is found countless commercial products from foods and drinks to toiletries and cosmetics, but strangely it is rarely found in gardens.
Black peppermint is unique from the other mints, it is the only mint that is accredited with the ability to boost mental clarity, increase concentration and relieve exam time fatigue. On top of its ability to help during exams and studying, peppermint is also an excellent digestive herb that relieves heartburn, ease nausea and colic and has recently been used in the treatment of migraines. It can also be used to clear spotty skin, unblock sinuses and ease spasms. It is such a lovely herb that no garden should be without it. For the above mentioned ailments peppermint can be taken in the form of a tea by adding ¼ cup of finely chopped peppermint leaves and stems to one cup of boiling water. Let it stand for 5 minutes and strain, sweeten with some honey if liked and sip slowly! Alternatively for those hot summer days you can make your own delicious summer ice tea (see below) for a refreshing drink rich in antioxidants and vitamins:
Summer Ice Tea
Ingredients:
1 Cup Lemon grass finely chopped
1 Cup Peppermint leaves and stems finely chopped
1 Litre boiling water
2 Litres Granadilla or Orange Juice
Add the lemon grass and peppermint in a jug and pour over the boiling water, let it stand 5-10 minutes and strain, set aside to cool, Once it is cool add the fruit juice and you may add some honey to taste. Serve with ice and add some fresh peppermint leaves.
