Spearmint Infusion

Spearmint, or Mentha spicata, is a plant with an intense aroma, appreciated and enjoyed around the world as an infusion. It originates from parts of Europe and Asia and was naturalized in North Africa, South America and North America. A true marvel of nature, Spearmint has been used since antiquity and its strong minty aroma has made it a highly popular ingredient. It is a favourite herb for chefs all around the world.

The culinary use of spearmint is widespread, and both stems and leaves are used to make or decorate various dishes, sauces, desserts and refreshing beverages, such as mojitos or lemonade. It produces a vibrant, tonic and intensely scented beverage with light and pleasant sweetness when consumed as an infusion. In Morocco, spearmint is an essential ingredient of Moruno tea, which is prepared following a recipe with Gunpowder green tea as a base.

The main organic component of spearmint essential oils is menthol, a monoterpene alcohol with numerous health benefits. It is widely used in phytotherapy to fight nausea, treat respiratory infections, heal wounds, etc. Its antispasmodic, digestive and anti-inflammatory effect makes it very beneficial in the treatment of gastrointestinal and joint problems. It also has antiseptic and anti-fungal properties. Spearmint is also an excellent analgesic used to soothe pain and relax the muscles. Another of the most common medicinal uses for spearmint is to improve mood, relieve emotional tension and help improve sleep, acting as a natural relaxing and balancing agent for our nervous system.

Mint leaves and stems are rich in vitamins and antioxidants, such as ascorbic acid (vitamin C), riboflavin (vitamin B2), pyridoxine (vitamin B6), folic acid (vitamin B9) and beta carotene (a precursor of vitamin A). Spearmint consumption also provides us with important minerals such as calcium, iron, potassium and manganese. The spearmint plant does not contain caffeine or cholesterol and is very low in calories, which makes it suitable as part of any healthy diet. It could also be very useful in helping to reduce weight. Unlike peppermint, spearmint contains a lower proportion of menthol, making its flavour much smoother and without such a strong refreshing effect in the mouth.