The pungent aromas of certain plants indicate the presence of volatile oils that have specific effects on the human body.
While not all mint family plants are aromatic (see The Mint Family for identification characteristics), many of them have odors that signal their use for healing. Probably the most famous mints, peppermint (Mentha piperita) and spearmint (Mentha spicata), are known for their use as flavoring agents, and peppermint tea is an age-old remedy for upset stomach. Herbalists have historically disagreed about whether its net effect on the system is warming or cooling, because this plant does both. In The Energetics of Western Herbs (Artemis Press, 1989) Peter Holmes states that the effects of peppermint depend on the individual and the environment. As the pungent taste implies—think how it makes the mouth tingle— peppermint has a stimulating effect, and it is included in bath preparations designed to “wake up” the bather. Used internally, it expels accumulated gas in the digestive tract and phlegm from clogged sinuses. However, in hot weather or a feverish condition, a cup of hot peppermint tea will cause sweating, lowering the overall temperature of the body. Herbalist Matthew Wood says that peppermint is too relaxing to be taken immediately after a meal, when it inhibits digestion.
A little-known but very common mint is ground ivy (Glechoma hederacea) a creeping plant with tiny, roundish leaves and purple flowers that bloom in spring. Its husky aroma is pleasing to some people and repels others. Matthew Wood recommends it be taken internally for ear infections and for colds that start in the ears. It is also to treat lead poisoning because of its ability to bond with lead and other toxic metals stored in the cells and enable the body to excrete the poisons.
Motherwort (Leonurus cardiaca) is one of the “bitter mints”, which are not aromatic but are extremely bitter-tasting. Up to five feet tall, with lobed, sharply pointed leaves, its small purple flowers appear in summer along the upper part of the stem, encased in hard, sharp little “bracts”. Like a mother protecting her children, motherwort will stab with her bracts if she is seized without care. Like peppermint, motherwort has both stimulating and relaxing properties, giving it the ability to regulate a wide range of conditions. Its action occurs primarily on the heart, the uterus, and the nervous system. “Mother” is an old word referring to the uterus. Motherwort is a traditional women’s herb, used for stress, especially for women dealing with issues of parenting. It stimulates menstruation and treats menstrual pain as well as the hot flashes of menopause. Because it is a uterine stimulant, it should be used with caution during pregnancy but can be used to support labor and to stop bleeding after delivery. It also strengthens the heart, treating palpitations and high blood pressure.
Skullcap (Scutellaria laterifolia) is another bitter mint, used primarily for treating the central nervous system. It grows along in shady brooks, only a foot or two high, with tender, egg-shaped, coarsely toothed leaves, and blue-violet flowers that appear in summer. It is a mild sedative that can be helpful for insomnia, nervousness, teething pains, tension headaches, and menstrual discomfort.
