Cooling effect of mint (Photo: iStock)

Flowers are not the only gift from Mother Nature that is associated with fragrance. Herbs such as mint have also dominated the field.

Mint can be described as a fragrance herb with bright green leaves that have a fuzzy texture and grow in clusters. It is mostly known for its distinctive scent and flavour.

When the leaves are crushed, they emit a refreshing aroma described as cool, minty and slightly sweet. There are several varieties of mint with the common ones being spearmint and peppermint, each with its unique flavour.

Mint is mostly used as a flavouring agent in cooking and baking since it adds a refreshing and aromatic touch to dishes that is hard to miss. It can be used to make fresh juice or smoothies giving the drinks a cool taste and a green colour.

During ancient times, mint was also used as a traditional medicine to aid digestion, alleviate symptoms of indigestion and nausea, relieve headaches, and soothe sore throat


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