MENTHA VIRIDIS (U. S. P.)—SPEARMINT. History and Chemical Composition

Spearmint (Herba menthæ acutæ [vel Romanæ]) is an European herb, but like the preceding species of mint, is extensively cultivated in various moist places in this country on account of its oil, and for domestic use. It flowers in July and August; the whole herb is medicinal, and should be gathered for medicinal use during dry weather and previous to the full development of the flowers. If gathered to procure its oil, it should be done after the flowers have become developed, and before the ripening of the seeds. It has a strong, peculiar, aromatic odor, and an aromatic, faintly bitter taste, followed by coolness in the mouth during inhalation. When the plant is carefully dried, these properties are preserved for a long time. Its virtues are due to a volatile oil (see Oleum Menthæ Viridis), which may be obtained by distillation with water. Alcohol extracts its virtues, also water by infusion. It contains a little tannin.