The mints have been cultivated since ancient times in China and Japan. In Egypt, evidence of peppermint was found in tombs dating back to 1000 BC. It has been used extensively in Eastern and Western medicine for a variety of complaints.

Peppermint is a perennial herb growing up to 4 feet tall, with underground runners by which it is easily propagated. "White" peppermint has green stems and leaves; "black" peppermint has dark green serrated leaves, purplish stems, and red-violet flowers. The essential oil is obtained by steam distillation from the flowering herb. It is pale yellow with a highly penetrating grassy-minty scent.

Peppermint's properties have been claimed to be analgesic, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial,
antipruritic, antiseptic, antispasmodic, antiviral, astringent, carminative, cordial, expectorant, febrifuge, hepatic, nervine, stoamachic, sudorific, vasoconstrictor, and vermifuge. This oil may help with acne, asthma, dermatitis, hives, inflammation, liver problems, morning sickness, itchy skin, and toothaches.
Peppermint is cultivated worldwide.

Chemical Constituents are monoterpenes (2-18%); sesquiterpenes; monoterpenols; oxides (cineole 5%); terpene esters; and coumarines. Safety data: May cause CONTACT SENSITIZATION. DO NOT USE IF PREGNANT, OR IF YOU HAVE HIGH BLOOD PRESSURE.