MEDICINAL PLANTS

The stem is square in section and violet. The leaves are opposite, so that each interval leaves off two opposite directions, and spear-shaped teeth in its outline. The flowers are in terminal spikes, forming inflorescences with a color range from white to purple through pink. The smell is very distinctive and pervasive, its aromatic taste leaves a sensation of coolness in the mouth. Its culture is by cuttings, and on one level can be obtained over four cuttings for new plants. The highest yield for obtaining essentially occurs in the second year of cultivation, decreasing from then on.

FLOWERING

Before flowering, which occurs in summer, we proceed to the collection of the plant that is usually carried out in the months of June and July. To gather the leaves, the plant is cut as close to the ground, separating the same day cut the stems of the leaves, if we collect sumidad florida, then the cut is made at the bottom of it. The drying can be performed with artificial warmth, but never exceed 30 grados Celsius , since in that case the substance will evaporate and thus lose all their properties. It is best to make a drying in the shade, at low temperature with good ventilation, avoiding direct sunlight to preserve the natural green of the leaves. If the leaves are crushed or sumidad Florida, will quickly lose the essence and therefore worthless.

APPLICATIONS

In children under two years of inhaling mint essence may cause asphyxia produced a spasm of glottis, so that in these cases is essential to avoid its use and essentially replace this with no other purpose. Adults too sensitive to this substance may appear nervous states and frames of insomnia. Under normal conditions, is used to prevent itching and cool the topical level, the cool sensation as such does not occur, because the temperature remains the same, but the person who is given the perceived nature as well. This is because menthol produces a stimulation of nerve endings sensitive to cold, leading to the feeling. In extreme cases, and by the same mechanism, it can produce a mild local anesthetic which once was used to quell toothache. Menthol is used as a flavoring agent and antiseptic.

ADMINISTRATION

Infusion. 5 grams of plant per cup, they come in contact with boiling water for 15 minutes, being able to take up to three cups a day after meals. Improves digestion and acts as a carminative.
Capsules. The plant powder is encapsulated, being able to take an amount of 0.2 grams per day.
For external use. With the precautions already outlined, damp puffs can be made with the use of 8 drops of essence mixed with a pint of hot water. You can make rubbing liniment in rheumatic patients. Also used in aftershave lotions, deodorants, toothpastes, elixirs, chewing gum ...

SUMMARY

FAMILY: Labiatae
HABITAT: It is grown in gardens
FLOWERING: Summer
PART USED: Leaf and flower sumidad
CATALAN:
BASQUE: Metana
GALICIAN: Hortelâ-pimenta

USES

Strong Antiseptic, Moderate analgesic, Digestive Moderate.