Synonyms: Common Garden Mint, Common Spearmint, Crispment, Curled Mint, Fish Mint, Garden Spearmint, Green Mint, Lady's Mint, Lamb Mint, Mackerel Mint, Mint, Pea Mint, Scotch Spearmint, Spire Mint
Family: Labiatae
Genus species: Mentha spicata (syn. Mentha viridis), Mentha cardiaca (Scotch Spearmint)
Type: Perennial herb
Part Used: Leaves and flowering tops
Location: ubiquitous
Actions: Anodyne, antiseptic, antispasmodic, astringent, carminative, circulatory stimulant, diaphoretic, digestive, flavoring agent, nervine, refrigerant, stimulant, stomachic, suppurative, tonic, tooth whitener, vermifuge
Indications: Abscess, bronchitis, cancer (stomach), colic, diarrhea, dyspepsia, dysuria, fever, flatulence, hysteria, indigestion, influenza, malaria, menstrual cramps, morning sickness, muscle spasms, myalgia, nausea, neuralgia, upper respiratory catarrh, vomiting
Chemicals & Nutrients: Calcium, Chlorophyll, Iron
Preparation & Dosages: 4 g
Tea: 150 ml of boiling water poured over 1-1.5 g drug, leave in covered vessel for 10 min., strain, one cup several times per day.
Contraindications: Diverticulitis, diverticulosis, duodenal ulcer, esophageal reflux, gastronintestinal disease, lactation, pregnancy, spastic colitis, stomach ulcer, ulcerative colitis.
Side Effects: (Possible adverse effects and/or overdose effects) Diarrhea, nausea, vomiting.
Safety: Mentha spicata is considered GRAS. Safe when used appropriately.