Lori's Garden
Spearmint
Genus: Mentha.
Species: Mentha spicata.
Mint is one of the most useful herbs in the garden..it cools and comforts upset stomachs, skin rashes, and is a refreshing tea ingredient. In the kitchen it is used in Middle Eastern cuisine, sweet or savoury sauce for meats, refreshing ices for desserts, and as a garnish. Even skin cleansers and creams employ the healing power of mint. I am growing mint from roots of a plant that was in my family for generations...My Moms Mint Tea is legendary...
Extremely hardy plants they will spread and literally move to where ever they are most comfortable if left to their own desserts...lol. It is best to plant mint where it can expand to fill a space...it will take over otherwise. harvest fresh new growth...the tips are the best...for drying or sauces.
While working in the garden harrassed by mosquitoes I took a stalk of mint and rubbed it into a bite!... to my surprise it cooled my skin and the smell seemed to keep insects away... barring a propensity for contact dermatitis...this could work for anyone... just one more lovely use for this ubiquitous herb!
