What are the differences between mint and peppermint?
They are two different plants: spearmint (Mentha spicata) on one side, and peppermint (Mentha piperita) on the other. The former has light green, long, serrated leaves, while the latter boasts a darker green hue. Visually they are quite similar, as peppermint is a hybrid of spearmint and watermint (which grows near water). Their main difference lies in the taste: spearmint is sweeter and more subtle, whereas peppermint is stronger and richer in menthol. Peppermint is used to produce essential oils, but also to flavour toothpastes, sweets, cocktails, and more. If you enjoy variety, note that there are over 25 varieties of mint: lemon mint, chocolate mint, corn mint, Corsican mint…
What are the benefits and effects of mint and peppermint?
As these two aromatic plants belong to the same family, their health benefits are quite similar. Used since antiquity, mint is acclaimed for its pain-relieving properties, with menthol acting as an analgesic. Applied to the skin (as a poultice or essential oil), it relieves joint pain or insect bites. Its benefits are also felt when ingested: peppermint helps clear the airways during a cold, for instance. Another advantage is that it aids digestion by stimulating bile secretion, soothing stomach aches and bloating (digestive discomfort).
What are the benefits and effects of mint/peppermint herbal tea or infusions?
Beyond the specific qualities of mint and peppermint, herbal teas are true wellness companions, helping keep your body hydrated to flush out toxins. While the digestive system handles the elimination (or drainage) work, infusions provide an extra way to support the body through optimal hydration.
How to make homemade mint/peppermint herbal tea?
The simplest method is to infuse fresh leaves, making sure to rinse them beforehand. Alternatively, you can use dried leaves, which keep for much longer. If you do not have mint in your garden (or do not have a garden at all!), fresh mint and peppermint plants are available in many grocery shops. Be sure to choose organically grown plants, as they are guaranteed pesticide-free. To prepare your infusion, pour simmering water (heated to 100°C) over the leaves. Count about two small sprigs of mint per cup of water, then leave to infuse for 5 to 10 minutes, depending on how strong you like the flavour.
How to flavour homemade mint/peppermint herbal tea?
Depending on your taste, you can sweeten the infusion by adding brown sugar, honey, maple syrup, or agave nectar. Note that mint or peppermint herbal tea can be enhanced with other herbs, adding flavour and benefits to your recipe. We particularly recommend trying blends like “mint-linden”, “mint-verbena”, “mint-lemon”, “mint-thyme”, “mint-chamomile”, “mint-orange blossom”, or “mint-ginger”. Lastly, mint leaves can also flavour salads, savoury tarts, or desserts. The possibilities are endless!
Where can you find peppermint in Kusmi Tea organic infusions?
Because you do not always have the time or inclination to brew a homemade herbal tea, Kusmi offers a wide range of organic infusions. Among them, our Be Cool blend contains mint. Designed as your go-to companion for staying zen, it combines mint and verbena leaves with apple and liquorice. The goal: treat yourself to a moment of sweetness and calm. As always at Kusmi, these aromatic plants are all organically grown, then blended, flavoured, and packaged in France. Plus, whether chosen loose or in tea bags, Be Cool infusion comes in eco-friendly packaging that is either recyclable or biodegradable.
Peppermint infusion therefore offers numerous health benefits: digestion, skin health, pain-relieving properties, cold relief… For superior quality, choose an organic infusion made with pesticide-free leaves grown with respect for the environment. Enjoy its benefits by drinking one or more cups throughout the day.