The Sacred Moon Circle - Herbs

Mentha X. Piperita

Folk names

Brandy mint, lammint

Description

Peppermint is an annual herb. It grows to approximately 80cm (32in). The leaves are serrated.

Background information

Peppermint is a hybrid of watermint and spearmint. Its theraputic properties are similar but stronger than spearmint and watermint. All mints, such as apple mint, lemon mint, curled mint and spearmint share basic properties.

Peppermint is propagated from seed in Spring and is harvested jsut before it flowers in the summer during dry sunny weather.

Traditional uses

Ancient egyptians made use of peppermint. The dried leaves have been found in Egyptian pyramids dating from B.C.E.

Parts used

The aerial parts are used.

Current uses

Digestive system:-

colic, nausea, griping and wind, irritated bowel, diarrhoea, relieves a spastic colon

Apply to the skin to relieve pain and reduce sensitivity.

Also useful in treating headaches, migraines which are linked to digestive weakness, hiccoughs, respiratory infections, digestive infections.

Information about the essential oil

Cautions

Do not give peppermint to children under 5. Do not take the essential oil internally except under professional supervision. The essential oil should not be prescribed for children under 12.

Magical information

Gender: Masculine
Planet: Mercury
Element: Fire
Deities: Pluto
Powers: Purification, sleep, love, healing, psychic powers.