Mint is a perennial herb indigenous to Europe, with over 25 different species across the globe. One of the most common varieties is peppermint, which is more potent and typically associated with culinary and medicinal use.
Menthol, the active ingredient in mint that gives it its characteristic flavour, is more concentrated in peppermint than in spearmint and is considered an aid in digestion and as a stomach-calmative. Oil of peppermint has also been used to stop the growth of bacterial, viral and fungal infections and to address asthma, sinusitis, allergy-related colds and other respiratory issues. Nutritionally, peppermint is a good source of vitamins A and C, along with manganese, and copper.
Choose fresh mint as it provides more flavour and look for leaves that are brightly coloured. Wrap the mint leaves in a damp paper towel that loosely holds the leaves and place them in a sealed plastic bag. They should keep for several days in the fridge.
