Peppermint is a perennial herbaceous plant, strongly aromatic, belonging to the Lamiaceae family.
The first large-scale cultivation of Peppermint takes place in Mitcham in England and it is now widespread throughout the world.
The name of the species "piperita" derives from the Greek piperatus which means acrid, pungent, in relation to its intense flavor, while the genus "Mentha" refers to Mintha, the nymph of Greek mythology.
Mint is a herb which can be few centimeters high but it can also reach 70 cm., it has upright stems and rhizomatous roots that expand considerably in the soil.
The leaves are opposite, simple, lanceolate, covered with a light, bright green down. The white, pink or purple flowers are collected in terminal, conical buds, which bloom from the bottom upwards. The fruit is a capsule which can contain 1 or up to 4 seeds.
Easy to grow, Peppermint prefers a slightly shady and humid area. The harvest is carried out when it is completely flowered and brought to the distilleries, for domestic use, it is dried in a cool and airy place.
It is known since ancient times as a digestive, invigorating and antiparasitic plant, Peppermint is mentioned in many mythological and sacred texts and in medical collections as a true panacea for body and spirit.
Galen boasted its aphrodisiac properties for this supposed virtue, the ancient Romans wove mint in the wreath that the spouses wore on their heads.
Curiosity
It seems that Mint prevents milk from curdling, so it should be kept away from dairies.
When rubbed on apples, it considerably delays their deterioration.
Just place Mint plants in the places to be protected by rodents, they can't stand its smell so they won't come close.