"If any man can name...all the properties of mint, he must know how many fish swim in the Indian Ocean."
--- Wilfred of Strado - 12th Century

"Is it Persephone I have to blame for this mint overtaking my garden" I mused to myself one day as I ripped huge handfuls of the pungent herb from my garden. After all it was Persephone who, after learning of Hades tryst with Minthe, trod upon the nymph and turned her into a mint plant!

Of course it wasn’t Persephone that caused the over abundance of mint, it was simply my own inexperience in planting. I over planted and planted several varieties together, and most importantly, didn’t know how mint travels! Take note... a little mint goes a long way! Well that summer was spent trying to control the root runners that carried new plants everywhere. So, if you plan on growing mint, plant in planters or old tubs that can be buried in the soil. This is the only way to control the root runners and growth. And be sure to plant in separate patches as it will intertwine and you will not know which plant is which.

With the drawbacks of mint out of the way, on to the rewards. Besides being one of the oldest herbs, mint is by far the hardiest. It will grow in damp areas unlike most other herbs. Mint is ruled by the planet Mercury with its magical properties including communications, and energy. Mint boasts at least 30 varieties and all are members of the ‘Menthall’ family. The most popular mints are Applemint (menthe suaveolens) Spearmint (Metha spicata) Peppermint (menthe aquactica x menthe spicata) and Corsican Mint (menthe requienii); the newest edition to the mint family is Chocolate mint which tastes as the name suggest.

When the dog days of summer hit and you are searching for ways to refresh and rejuvenate, the herbal answer is mint! The fresh familiar scent is sure to cool you down and fill you with needed energy. This summertime favorite is a must in iced drinks. On those warm sultry nights why not sip a frosty glass of mintale. You will need:

Mint tea is an aide in relieving indigestion, nausea, and gas and travel sickness. For inflamed joints a compress soaked in mint infusion offers much relief. To clear nasal congestion place a handful of mint leaves into boiling water and inhale. Mint essential oil is a must to have on hand for skin abrasions and itching. Add 2-3 drops to a carrier oil such as jojoba or almond oil and dab on affected area. This is excellent soothing massage oil and is good for menstrual cramps as well. Burn mint as incense to awaken the conscious mind and to banish negative thoughts. (Never leave incense lit at bedtime)

Candied mint leaves will add sparkle as a garnish for cakes, ice cream and lamb dishes. You will need:

I remember my Nana always added fresh mint to pea’s as they cooked, and she would prepare a ‘sauce’ for lamb by chopping mint leaves and adding then to vinegar. A must she told me, when serving lamb. Start with one small mint plant and I’m sure you will be amazed at how in the 21st. century; the magic of Minthe is still enthralling us.