HI
The Greek climate is ideal for growing herbs, which are to be found in abundance, flourishing on mountain sides, and green meadows, where they grow naturally.
When walking through the beautiful countryside of Greece, it’s difficult not to crush the wild carpet of herbs underfoot; they grow so profusely, giving the air an aura unique to Greece.
The herbs found in Greece today, are the same herbs gathered thousands of years ago in Ancient Greece, and their uses have remained unchanged, not only to flavour delicious Greek cuisine, but also for medicinal purposes.
MINTMentha (also known as mint, from Greek μίνθα míntha, Linear B mi-ta) is a genus of plants in the family Lamiaceae (mint family)
There are more than 600 varieties of mint, each having a range of flavor. Some are quite similar and can be used interchangeable in cooking
Peppermint (Mentha piperita)
Spearmint (Mentha spicata)
Pennyroyal (Mentha pulegium) - Mat-forming groundcover with very small leaves; this plant has toxic properties and should not be consumed;
'Chocolate Mint' is a type of peppermint with a hint of chocolate flavor
'Apple Mint' has fuzzy, light green leaves and emits a green apple aroma
Variegata' has splashes of white and yellow
Curly Mint' is a type of spearmint with crinkly foliage
Pineapple' has a tropical fragrance and variegated foliage
Growth Habit
Most mints grow as an eight to 12 inch groundcover, extending another six inches or so when they are in bloom, though some form a creeping mat less than three inches tall. They spread by runners along the surface of the soil and can quickly expand to cover large areas where growing conditions are ideal.
HEIGHT 30cm 12''
SPREAD 15cm-2m+
Habitat & Adaptation. Peppermint can be found over much of the world; indigenous to Europe and Asia, it has been naturalized in North America. In the United States Mentha x piperita can be found practically everywhere, however; it is commonly found near streams and other wet areas.
You will see herbs growing in pots outside the restaurants in Arillas and allover Greece
Pick mint in the morning after the dew has evaporated for best flavor and aroma and use only the upper leaves that are fresh and green. It's best to harvest it early in the season before it goes to flower.
GROW MINT IN A TUBS, TROUGH OR POTS IF NOT IT WILL TAKE OVER NONE ONLY [Mentha pulegium] You can easily add mint to green salads, desserts, smoothies and even water.COOKING Peppermint tea is another popular way to incorporate it into your diet.
Mint is thought to increase bile secretion and encourage bile flow, which helps to speed and ease digestion (and which may also support healthy cholesterol levels). Peppermint is also thought to relieve pain and discomfort from gas and bloating. Peppermint tea is a common home remedy for flatulence.
Soothes Upset Stomach
Improves Digestion
Treats Bad Breath
Combats the Common Cold and Flu
Reduces Fever
Improves Mental Awareness and Focus
Prevents Nausea
Reduces Stress
Promotes Healthy Skin and Hair
Like oral products, peppermint is used in a variety of skin care treatments at salons to promote a healthy scalp. Peppermint can help treat dandruff by reducing itchiness and soothing dry scalps. For best results, wash hair using peppermint tea and let sit for 5 to 10 minutes before rinsing.
The anti-inflammatory properties in peppermint can help reduce redness caused by acne and antiseptic properties help prevent build up of bacteria that can clog pores. The soothing effects of peppermint are useful for treating skin rashes and itchy bug bites.
Pregnancy
As with many teas, pregnant women can drink mint tea, but should limit consumption since teas have been linked to higher rates of miscarriage. If you have a history of miscarriages, it is recommended to avoid drinking peppermint tea. Women should also avoid drinking peppermint tea when breastfeeding since peppermint oils can cause breathing problems in infants and children.
Drug Interactions
As with most teas, it's important to talk with your doctor before using tea to treat ailments or in combination with any medications. Peppermint tea can interact with medications designed to treat heartburn and acid reflux along with those for blood pressure and diabetes.
People with Acid Reflux
If you suffer from acid reflux disease or a similar ailment such as GERD, you should not consume peppermint tea. This is because peppermint tea can relax the muscles in the esophagus that prevent stomach acid and bile flow into the esophagus. By drinking peppermint tea, you can actually increase your symptoms of heartburn and indigestion.