Spearmint (yerbabuwena in tagalog)

(Mentha viridis) Part used: Leaves. Properties: Aromatic, carminative, diaphoretic, stimulate, antispasmodic, diuretic. What it affects: Stomach, intestines, muscles, and circulation.

Preparation and amount: Infusion: Steep 5-15 min. Take 6 oz. 3-4 times daily. Tincture: Take 1/2-1 tsp. 3-4 times daily. Fluid extract: Take 1/4 – 1/2 tsp. 3-4 times daily. Powder: Take 5-10 #0 capsules (30-60 grains) 3-4 times daily.

Purposes: Internally, the Mentha spicata species of spearmint shares many of the properties of peppermint. It is often given for common women’s problems and for suppressed or painful urination. An infusion combined with horehound is sometimes given to children for fever.

• The Mentha viridus species is also nontoxic, and similar to peppermint in its uses. This herb is mainly used during colds, flus, cramps, indigestion, gas, and slight spasms. Combined with horehound, it is used to break fevers in children. It is good to stop vomiting and excellent when used as an enema for restlessness. Combined with pleurisy root and skullcap, it is a good remedy for pneumonia and pleurisy.

Note: Do not boil the herb, for the volatile oil will be steamed off. Use it in bitter herb combinations, to add flavor. 

• The other mints are spearmint (Mentha spicata) and catnip (Nepeta cataria); both of these are dealt with elsewhere in this herb list.