Photo: Andreas Kaiser, Neu-Ulm Pfuhl, Germany · CC BY-SA 3.0 · Source
Spearmint
Mentha spicata
Family: Labiateae | Parts Used: Leaf
Spearmint is a refreshing, cooling herb used in Western and Middle Eastern herbalism for colds, flus, fevers, indigestion, and gas. Its essential oils support digestive comfort and promote sweating to help reduce fevers. Spearmint also has traditional blood-purifying uses and appears in folk practice for uncrossing and prosperity.
Traditional Uses
- Colds, flus, and fevers
- Indigestion and gas
- Easing stomach discomfort
- Promotes sweating to help reduce fevers (diaphoretic use)
- Traditionally used for blood-purifying properties
Key Constituents
- Essential Oils
- B Vitamins
- Vitamin C
- Potassium
- Flavonoids
- Tannins
Preparations & Dosage
- Infusion: 1-2 teaspoons herb in 1 cup boiling water, or 1 ounce dried herb for 1 pint water. Take up to 3 times daily.
- Tincture: 15-30 drops, taken up to 3 times daily.
TCM Profile: Spicy, bitter, cool.
Spiritual & Folk Uses
- Traditionally used in uncrossing work: burn powdered herb in an incense blend.
- Traditionally used for prosperity: add to a spiritual bath or mojo bag.
Bonnie's Notes
I love to use spearmint in infusion blends to not only improve the taste, but also for the little extra energy it adds to a blend.
Cautions
- Generally safe as a culinary herb and tea.
- May lower androgen levels. Use with caution in men or with hormonal medications.
- May worsen GERD symptoms in some individuals.
- Not recommended in large medicinal doses during pregnancy.
- Use with caution if prone to stomach ulcers.
Habitat & Growing Conditions
Easily cultivated worldwide in temperate zones, including US zones 4-9. Prefers rich, moist soil in partial shade.
Related Articles
Sources & Research
The Way of Herbs, Michael Tierra, p. 195
Medicinal Herbs: A Beginner's Guide, Rosemary Gladstar, p. 202
Published Research:
Medicinal Uses, Phytochemistry, Pharmacology, and Toxicology of Mentha spicata | Evidence-based complementary and alternative medicine (2022)
The traditional uses, phytochemistry and pharmacology of spearmint (Mentha spicata L.): A review | Journal of ethnopharmacology (2021)
Mentha spicata L. essential oil, phytochemistry and its effectiveness in flatulence | Journal of traditional and complementary medicine (2021)
Mentha spicata as natural analgesia for traditional support for pain in osteoarthritis patients | Complementary therapies in clinical practice (2017)
These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This information is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. If you are under the care of a health care provider or taking prescription medication, check with your provider before using any herbal supplement.