Mint is a fast-growing, aromatic herb belonging to the genus Mentha in the family Lamiaceae. It includes a variety of species, such as spearmint (Mentha spicata) and peppermint (Mentha × piperita), and is native to Europe, Asia, and North America. Mint plants are typically low-growing and spread rapidly through underground runners, often forming dense ground cover. They have bright green, serrated leaves and square stems—an identifying trait of the mint family. Known for their refreshing scent and cooling flavor, mint leaves are widely used in cooking, teas, beverages, and desserts. Beyond culinary uses, mint also has medicinal properties, often used to aid digestion, relieve headaches, and freshen breath. Due to its vigorous growth, mint is best cultivated in containers to prevent it from overtaking garden spaces.
Family Name: LAMIACEAE
Botanical Name: MENTHA ARVENSIS / PIPERTIA
Common Name: FIELD MINT, CORN MINT, JAPANESE MINT, PODINA
Part Used: WHOLE PLANT, OIL
Habitat: Found through out India.
Uses: The entire plant is Antibacterial, antifibrile. It yields an essential oil and menthol which exert, through their rapid evaporation, a slightly anaesthetic, and anodyne local effect. It is effective in headache, rhinitis, cough sore throat, colic, prurigo and vomiting. Menthol obtained from this is used in balms. It is also used as Flavouring agent in culinary preparations.