Spearmint

Mentha spicata

Origin: Morocco
Family: Lamiaceae
Part used: Plant

Spearmint, also known as lamb mint and mackerel mint, is a species of mint. It is native to Europe and southern parts of Asia. It's a perennial herbaceous plant that grows up to 1 m in height. The word 'spear' comes from the pointy leaf tips. Its long history of use goes back 2000 years for its uplifting aroma and as a treatment for the bites of mad dogs. It's popular contemporary use includes treatment for nausea and as an antiseptic. It's very well renowned for its use in toothpaste and mouth washes.
Overview
Fragrance notes
A clean and minty aroma with a subtle hint of caraway. Very similar to Peppermint but less menthol and more sweetness.

Blending notes
Blends well with: Ginger, Cedarwood Atlas, Orange Sweet and Sage.
History
Spearmint was used by ancient civilisations to flavour food, for perfumes and as a bath scent. Ancient Greeks used it as a restorative, similar to the way we use smelling salts today. In Athens, where every part of the body was perfumed with a different scent, Spearmint was especially reserved for the arms. In the 14th century Spearmint was used for whitening teeth. Spearmint has been utilised in the treatment of fever, colds, indigestion, morning sickness, motion sickness and as a rub for joint stiffness and muscle soreness. It has also been used for its antiseptic properties. Today, it is best known as a flavouring agent in a range of oral hygiene products, including toothpaste, mouthwash and chewing gum.

Please note: the traditional uses listed here are for reference only and should not be taken as recommendations for treatment, or cure, of any disease or medical condition. Therapeutic plant oils are used to support natural body processes towards improved health and wellbeing.
Uses
Pregnancy nausea
Rub 1 drop on the solar plexus, or combine 3 drops with 3 drops of Ginger for night time diffusion.

Digestive aid
Mix 5-10 drops to 2 ml of Olive oil and massage clockwise onto the stomach.

Colic and flatulence
Mix 5-10 drops to 2 ml of Olive oil and massage clockwise onto the stomach.

Festive aroma
Add 5 drops of Spearmint, 5 drops of Orange Sweet and 2 drops of Ginger to a diffuser. Replenish as required.

Improved alertness
Add 5 drops of Spearmint and 5 drops of Rosemary Cineol to a diffuser. Refresh every hour.
Safety considerations
Safe when used as directed. Safe to use with other medication when necessary. If accidentally ingested do not induce vomiting, follow with olive oil or milk and seek advice from a health specialist. Avoid contact with eyes - flush with water. Keep out of reach of children.

Please note: Therapeutic plant oils are used to support natural body processes for optimum health and wellbeing. The information here is NOT meant as a recommendation to cure any medical condition or disease.
Ingredients
Key ingredients
100% pure Mentha spicata, distilled plant, Morocco
Key component
Menthol, Carvone, Limonene, trans-Carveol, cis-Dihydrocarvone, Pulegone