SPEARMINT
(Mentha spicata)
Our lady's mint, sage of Bethlehem
Description:
An aromatic perennial. The rootstalk. produces erect 2-4 ft. high
bright green aerial, square stems. Side branches emerge at a 45
degree angle in pairs from the main stem, with subtending leaves.
Leaves are opposite and lighter green than other mints, a little
hairy. Terminal, lavender-pink flowers form long, pyramidal spikes,
from several to many branches. Throughout the world and widely
cultivated.
Edible,
Medicinal: Used to flavor all kinds of foods. Antispasmodic,
antiseptic, diaphoretic, carminative, stimulant. Herb tea is given
for common women's complaints, for suppressed or painful urination.
Although not as strong as peppermint, the pleasant flavor is used
for almost any stomach or digestive problem. It is preferable
for nausea, indigestion from a sick headache or migraine and for
acid indigestion from a nervous stomach. Steep 1 tsp. herb in
1 cup water for 30 min. Take frequently, tablespoon at a time.
