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Spearmint Organic |
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Spearmint Organic
SPEARMINT - Organic (Mentha spp./M. spicata)
History and Folklore Few herbs produce as many variants as the Mint family and each tastes, smells and acts a little bit different. Spearmint is delightful - much less harsh and pungent than the more commonly used Peppermint. This is due to the fact that it contains very little menthol. Spearmint is thus the preferred species for culinary purposes, while Peppermint is favoured for medicinal uses. However, that does not mean to suggest that Spearmint does not have any therapeutic uses. The ancients valued it highly as an herb for students and scholars. They thought a wreath of Spearmint a fitting crown for academics and poets, which was thought to aid concentration and keep the mind clear. The Romans liked it as a strewing herb and sprinkled their quarters to scent the air with its nice, fresh aroma. Spearmint also lends itself better for cosmetic use than the more pungent Peppermint. It is very refreshing, relaxing and uplifting, for example when added to the bathwater, where Peppermint would make one feel cold, even if the water was hot. Spearmint is not as stimulating as Peppermint, which makes it also suitable for use at night and it is said to bring happy dreams and restful sleep.
Medicinal Uses: Spearmint can be used much like Peppermint. It is relaxing and antispasmodic. It aids digestion and alleviates nausea. It may be a useful calming and soothing remedy for PMT. In general its medicinal action is not as strong as that of Peppermint and its taste is milder, which is why it is usually preferred for culinary uses. Due to its milder action it is also generally thought more suitable for children's troubles, such as 'rumble-tum', nausea, insomnia, colic or feverish conditions. Added to the bathwater it is relaxing and restorative, soothing and clearing for the mind.
Magical Uses: Spearmint can be used when studying and at times of intense mental concentration. It can be used for cleansing and protection rituals, for healing and aura cleansing. It protects the practitioner on his astral journeys and during dream work. It enhances mental clarity, concentration and focus.
BOTANICALS: Plants nourish and feed us, add spice to our life, bestow health and beauty, scent and colour and brighten our days. They mediate love, hope and gratitude; they clothe and cleanse us, they heal and soothe our bodies, minds and souls. They touch every aspect of our existence, from our daily sustenance to the air we breathe, to the keys to other dimensions. They are the alchemists that turn sunlight into the green force of life, continuously revolving, restoring, rebirthing through the cycles of time. They truly are the greatest gift of nature, yet also the one we most take for granted. Star Child's range of botanicals derives from many regions and traditions of the world. We supply only the best quality herbs, using organically grown and sustainably harvested sources if available. The greater the demand for organic products the more readily they will become available. Your choice to buy and our commitment to supply organic herbs is part of the driving force that sows the seeds for a greener, healthier future.
USE: There are dozens of ways in which herbs can be used. Many culinary herbs not only impart a great flavour but also have subtle effect on the digestive process. Other herbs are more medicinal than culinary and can be used as remedies, based on the wisdom of age old traditional plant knowledge. For more detailed information on the different types of preparations that can be made with herbs, please refer to the BOTANICALS USAGE section.
CAUTION We support the notion of taking responsibility for one's own well being and thus strive to make all herbs available for use at your own discretion. It should be noted however, that not all herbs are safe to use in all circumstances. Special cautions may apply when suffering from certain medical conditions, when taking synthetic prescription drugs and during pregnancy. Research and familiarize yourself with any herb you intend to use and make sure you are aware of all special cautions that may apply. The information given here is based on thousands of years of traditional use. It is intended for educational purposes only and is not intended to replace a visit to a medical professional where this is necessary. If symptoms persist or re-occur, or if you are suffering from a serious medical condition, or if you are presently taking prescription drugs, we recommend that you consult a qualified doctor or practitioner before attempting to help yourself. Look for a practitioner/doctor who you can trust and who is prepared to explore natural health alternatives with you. Pregnancy is a very special time. If chosen wisely herbs can give tremendous support throughout the entire process. However, due to the vulnerability and sensitivity of the unborn child it is especially important to make sure that the herbs you are using are safe. (This also applies during the time of breast-feeding as all substances ingested by the mother are processed and passed on with the mother's milk). Many herbs may be useful during the latter stages of pregnancy or during labour, but could be dangerous during the first few months. Inform yourself - don't risk regret.
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