Peppermint is a perennial herbaceous shrub with medicinal and culinary uses. It is a hybrid cross between Menthaaquatica (water mint) and Menthaspicata (spearmint). Native to Greece, it grows in hot and dry climates. It can also be cultivated in fertile and irrigated fields. In ancient times mint was one of the basic ingredients in perfumery.
Peppermint has relaxing and diuretic properties. It is beneficial for kidney problems, gallbladder stones and liver dysfunction. Peppermint infusion, made from flowers and fresh leaves, can help with stomach ailments and can stimulate the function of the gallbladder and the liver. Peppermint leaves soothe and help heal burns. Peppermint leaves are very effective against colds and headaches when placed on the temples.