MINTSpearmint, or Garden Mint was introduced into the British Isles by the Romans, and it originated in the Mediterranean area. It was mentioned by Pliny, who wrote that it “brings out a person’s desire for meat.” This certainly holds true, as lamb with mint sauce is a familiar dish these days.
In the 14th century it was used for whitening teeth, and nowadays we have mint-flavoured toothpastes.
John Gerard (1545-1612) and Nicholas Culpeper (1616 - 1654), who wrote herbals, talk about it as a herb which increases libido
However, today it is used to flavour boiled new potatoes; it is also boiled with green peas, and the Welsh boil it with cabbage too.In the language of flowers, it symbolizes virtue.
You can drink boiled mint water to cure hiccups, and if you rub the leaves over your tongue, it will take away any feeling of roughness. You can use it as a mouthwash too, as it can soothe gums and sore mouths.
It is a good aid for digestion, and is good for the stomach. If you have lost your appetite, mint in your food will help you regain it. Try mint tea, which is a refreshing drink and will also help you get your appetite back.
Try one of our recipes which use mint, for different ideas of how it can be used.
Mint and Yoghurt SauceIngredients
250 gr. natural yoghurt
50 gr. dried pomegranate seeds
1 handful of fresh mint leaves
l handful of fresh coriander leaves
Salt and pepper to taste.
Method
Grind the dried pomegranate seeds with the mint and coriander. Mix all ingredients together and blend.
It’s ready to serve, or you can put it in the fridge until needed. Serve with meat and chicken, or use as a dip.
Bon appetite! It has taste and is a treat!
