When it comes to flavor and refreshment, we always choose mint or mint, especially in recipes for teas and other ingestible and non-ingestible preparations. But many don't realize that these herbs are not the same plant, despite their similar usage.
A mint and themint belong to the same botanical family, called Lamiaceae. Therefore, they have a similar aroma and flavor, and it is possible to find more than 20 species of this family.
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Furthermore, both species belong to the genus Mentha and are equally used in cooking, aromatherapy, manufacture of personal hygiene products, preparation of teas and remedies for digestion, colic, flu and sinusitis.
Despite all this, the two aromatic and medicinal herbs have punctual differences in flavor and other characteristics. Want to know more about it? Then check it out below!
Mint is an ancient herb that was already used in Ancient Egypt because of its medicinal properties. Today, it is still widely consumed in teas or in Arabic food.
In contrast, on the palate, mint is smoother and has a sweeter taste. On the other hand, mint leaves are more striking and fiery in their notes.
Both are low plants that develop well in climates like Brazil. The mint leaf has a rougher appearance, growing more easily in humid and shaded places.
The mint leaves are long and it is more resistant to heat, perfectly adapting to environments with plenty of sunlight.
About the medicinal properties of the genus Mentha, a survey by the Federal University of Paraná (UFPR), published in the magazine Horticultura Brasileira pointed out that, in Brazil, plants “are used for medicinal purposes as analgesic, stomach and intestinal, stimulant of cardiac functions, control of heartburn, gastritis, colic and gases”.
In addition, they are widely applied in aromatherapy, drinks, juices and, mainly, in personal hygiene products, such as toothpaste and mouthwash.
(Image: Freepik/Playback)
Both plants in the genus Mentha have medicinal benefits and other uses that can help your health and routine. Among them are:
Anti-inflammatory;
Analgesic;
Digestive properties;
Aid to the immune system;
Combat migraine;
Combating gases;
Decongestant;
Antioxidant.
Thus, it is clear that, despite the subtle differences in aroma and appearance, mint and spearmint have similar characteristics that contribute to your well-being and health.
Try growing one of these seedlings plants in your house and explore new recipes to learn more about the flavor of these herbs!