History of Peppermint
(Mentha piperita, Linn.)
History of Peppermint.
Peppermint is thought to be a native English plant and possibly a hybrid between M. spicata and M. aquatica. It was recorded by Ray (1627 - 1705) in 1696. John Ray is most well-known for his work Methodus Plantarum Nova in 1682 which was influentual in the world of botany.
Peppermint has been grown commerically in England since 1750, primarily at Mitcham in Surrey. Similar statements to what we found researching the history of lavender, extole essential peppermint oil produced from plants grown in this area is far superior to that from peppermint grown elsewhere.
Oil of peppermint contains menthol which is an anitseptic and anesthetic. Chewing a few peppermint leaves is thought to releive a toothache. Dyspepsia, colds and flu sufferers can find some relief by drinking peppermint tea. Peppermint tea can cause insomnia and it is therefore best avoided at night.
Like many of the herbs we discuss, peppermint oil is useful in combating flatulence and mild indigestion. Many over-the-counter stomach aids contain peppermint to both enhance the taste as well as the effectiveness of the medicine.
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