Peppermint, Mentha ×piperita, is a natural hybrid between Watermint and Spearmint. It is indigenous to Europe and the Middle East, and is now widespread in cultivation in many regions of the world. This Peppermint comes to us from America. Medicinally, Peppermint has been used traditionally for several minor ailments that remain scientifically unconfirmed for effectiveness, often the case where the product is cheap and readily available. These include short term treatment for irritable bowel syndrome, gastric disorders, upset stomach and indigestion, possibly inhibit growth of prostate cancer, inhibit herpes simplex virus 1, and apparently reduces chemotherapy-induced nausea, amongst other things. Interestingly dried peppermint leaves have even been found in several Egyptian pyramids carbon dating back to 1,000 BC. Prepare using boiling water and infuse for five minutes, can be re-infused many times.
