Mint is a great household herb to have. It grows quite easily, but keep in mind that it will spread like crazy (if planted in the yard vs. a pot). Peppermint is the most effective, however, I have had success with spearmint too . . . but peppermint is more potent.

Mint is a stimulant. Try drinking a strong cup of peppermint tea instead of coffee in the morning. It strengthens the heart muscles and is generally cleansing and strengthening to the whole body.

Mint helps stomach or digestion problems in adults and children. Next time you’ve got a stomach ache, drink some peppermint or spearmint tea, or chew on some peppermint or spearmint leaves (after they have been washed of course ). If you’re son or daughter has a stomach ache, give them a little bit of peppermint or spearmint tea to drink, or a leaf or two to chew. Drinking mint tea or chewing on the leaves will also help with cramps (including menstrual). Mint is a harmless herb, unless you are allergic, so feel free to eat the leaves . . . you don’t have to spit them out after chewing on them. Drinking a cup of peppermint tea also helps with flatulence (farting).

You can put crushed fresh peppermint leaves on the forehead for a headache. You can also apply crushed mint leaves on insect bites or stings.

Also, next time you have a sore throat, try gargling with spearmint tea . . . after gargling, swallow a spoonful of honey.

Note: If you are trying to get rid of mint from your garden, wet the dirt where the mint is and let it soak for about an hour to soften the dirt. Then pull out the mint, roots and all. Just cutting them won’t do it.