Herb of the Week: Mint

3 or 4 types of mint are found in Anchor Run's herb garden including mountain, common/spear, and apple.
Greek Mythology of Mint: Pluto fell in love with a nymph name Minthe. Persephone, Pluto’s wife, found out and became enraged. She turned Minthe into a ground clinging plant. Pluto could not turn her back, but gave her the ability to “sweeten the air” when people walked on her. (I wonder if she said Thank you to Pluto! I expect more from my Greek Gods!)

Benefits

Great source of antioxidants and nutrients
Mask bad breath and kill bacteria
Relieve indigestion
Soothe cold symptoms
Can aid in relaxation

Uses

Tea (obviously!)
Add to a salad
Mint-Limeade: mix lime juice with sugar or stevia and muddled mint leaves
Make a simple syrup by boiling mint leaves in 1 part sugar to 2 parts water
Freeze fresh mint leave in ice cubes to add some pizzazz to your beverages
Add to steamed vegetables and rice to give them an extra pop

Caution

Please avoid if you have a known mint allergy

Safe for Cats: No – There are tons of different types of mint and each have varying degrees of toxicity for cats due to the level of essential oils

Safe for Dogs: No – though not toxic, too much can cause GI upset; the suggested MAXIMUM is 1-2 leaves a day