Botanical Overview
Mentha spicata, commonly known as Spearmint, Garden mint, or Common mint, is a member of the Lamiaceae family. It is native to Europe, North Africa, and Western Asia but is now cultivated worldwide. The primary parts used medicinally are the leaves and aerial parts. This herb is widely recognized for its aromatic, refreshing qualities and has culinary as well as medicinal uses.
Energetics
The energetics of Mentha spicata are characterized by a cooling temperature and moistening quality. It has bitter, cool, minty, and slightly sweet tastes and exhibits ascending and outward directional properties. It is considered relaxing in tonicity and primarily affects the qi.
Primary Actions
- Carminative
- Antispasmodic
- Digestive stimulant
- Mild expectorant
- Antimicrobial
Indications
Western
- Indigestion
- Nausea
- Flatulence
- Headache
- Mild respiratory congestion
- Mild gastrointestinal cramps
Syndromes
- Functional dyspepsia
- Irritable bowel syndrome (mild cases)
- Common cold (symptomatic relief)
TCM
- Headache
- Nasal congestion
- Fever
- Sore throat
Syndromes
- Wind-heat invasion
- Lung heat cough
Ayurveda
- Bad breath
- Indigestion
- Respiratory discomfort
Syndromes
- Kapha imbalance
- Agni deficiency
Unani
- Gastrointestinal upset
- Headache
- Respiratory ailments
Syndromes
- Balgham (phlegm) excess
- Soda (bile) disorder
Constituents & Mechanisms
The main phytochemical constituents include menthol, menthone, carvone, flavonoids, tannins, and rosmarinic acid. These contribute to its carminative, antispasmodic, antimicrobial, and mild expectorant effects.
Dosage & Preparations
- Infusion: 1-2 g dried leaf per cup, taken 2-3 times daily
- Essential oil: topical use diluted to 0.5-2%
- Tincture: 1:5 in 40% ethanol, 1-3 mL, 1-3 times daily
Safety & Contraindications
Mentha spicata is generally safe for oral use in culinary and traditional medicinal doses. Allergic reactions are possible in sensitive individuals. It should be used cautiously in those with gastroesophageal reflux disease due to possible relaxation of the lower esophageal sphincter. Safety during pregnancy is not fully established; large doses are not recommended. Avoid use in infants or young children without professional supervision.
Astrological Correspondences
No well-substantiated planetary or elemental rulers are reliably attributed to Mentha spicata based on current reputable sources.
Selected References
- Mentha spicata – Spearmint, Plants For A Future Database
- Mentha spicata L., WHO Monographs on Selected Medicinal Plants, Vol. 1
- European Union Herbal Monograph on Mentha spp., EMA HMPC
- Phytochemical and pharmacological properties of Mentha spicata, Singh et al., PubMed
- Mentha haplocalyx, Chinese Herbal Medicine Materia Medica, Bensky et al.