Peppermint's Positive Powers
I've long been a supporter of the good-for-you-qualities of peppermint.
I mean, how can you hate on a medicinal and breath-freshening herb whose effective use dates back ten thousand years?
Using peppermint to ease stomach aches, indigestion and gas is a great thing to do. Recent research suggest that peppermint eases gastrointestinal tissue. It’s kind of like giving your insides a gentle massage. In a 2007 study, subjects with Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) took peppermint oil capsules for four weeks, and 75 percent of participants in the study experienced reduced symptoms and discomfort.
Peppermint oil may also be a natural deterrent for most species of household ants. Just sprinkle a little peppermint essential oil where you’ve seen ant trails. The only down side, is I hear you have to drop peppermint oil regularly for it to work. Read on for tips on growing your own, and a great peppermint recipe!
Want to grow your own?
Peppermint likes partial shade. Pick a spot that gets a good balance of sun and shadow. Plant seeds in late spring, or use an indoor pot that drains easily for watering. Peppermint grows like gangbusters, so be careful if you are adding seeds or stems to an already organized garden. How to prevent against bountiful mutiny? Harvest frequently and pinch off larger leaves as the plant grows.
How to use
From the pages of Gourmet Magazine, circa 2000, very delicious!
Mint Orange and Chili Chutney
Serving: 3/4 cup
Ingredients
1 1/2 cups fresh mint
1/4 cup finely chopped red onion
3 tablespoons water
2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
1 tablespoon fresh orange juice
1 teaspoon finely grated fresh orange zest
1 tablespoon sugar
1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
1 fresh mildly hot red chile such as red jalapeño, finely chopped
Directions
Pulse all ingredients in a food processor until mint is coarsely chopped.
This chutney is a great addition to chilies, sides and meats fresh off the grill!
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