In this segment, we will teach you all about mint, it's benefits, how to grow and harvest, clean and keep it fresh and what products it is commonly used in.
About:
Mint is a popular herb that can be used fresh or dried. Mint oil is often used in toothpaste, gum, candy, and other popular products.
Benefits:
"Mint plants contain an antioxidant and anti-inflammatory agent called rosmarinic acid" This has been studied for seasonal allergy symptoms, And is also a healthy natural treatment.
Mint contains menthol, a natural aromatic decongestant that helps to break up Mucus and nostral, making it easier to inhale and exhale.
"Mint has one of the highest antioxidants capacities of any food."
Mint is a peaceful and a soothing herb that has been used for many thousands of years to aid with a hurting stomach or not being able to digest.
Mint has some very interesting facts right?!
Outdoor Growing:
For growing outdoors, plant one or two plants about 2 feet apart in moist soil.
One or two plants will easily cover the ground. Mint should grow to be1.5 or 2 feet tall.
"Plant the seeds pieces in well-drained soil anytime after the last spring frost. The soil should be some where around 70ºF, if not a little bit over like 75ºF to 80ºF is also good."
"For small thin plants, plant 8 to 10 inches apart. The plants will grow 1 to 2 feet tall and spread about 18 inches."
Indoor Growing:
Fortunately, mint is easy to grow indoors, year around, with healthy care.
Mints are highly able to grow in the sun. Most will be fine in shade, and a different variety types may require direct sun protection.
Select a wide surfaced container such as a window box and fill with well-drained potting soil.
The temperature should be about 75-80º F
Place your mint in a bright section of light.
Fresh:
Lay mint leaves on a damp paper towel. If the paper towel is too wet, just gently wring out the water.
Wrap up the leaves with the paper towel and place it into plastic bag.
Place the plastic bag in your fridge.
Mint can stay fresh up to 6 to 7 months.
Commonly used in:
Toothpaste
Gum
Soaps and other products
Friday, catch the mint recipe on the blog!
Happy Growing,
Freddie