Peppermint is a product of chance that most likely originated in England in the 17th century. Because of its high content of essential oils, it has since been valued almost everywhere in the world as a tea or medicinal product.
Where does peppermint come from?
Peppermint (Mentha x piperita) has its origins in the 17th century in England, where it emerged as a random cross between round-leaf mint, brook mint and spearmint. Today it is known for its high menthol content and spicy taste.
Peppermint is a cultivated plant
Peppermint is hardly found in the wild. It is grown exclusively as a crop on herb farms, in gardens and on balconies. The plant only spreads near gardens via runners or, more rarely, via seeds.
The origin of peppermint, which we now like to use as a tea or spice, is in England. It was discovered there in the 17th century. It occurred near large facilities where different types of mint were grown. The “mothers” of mint are:
- Round-leaf mint
- Bachmint
- Spear mint (also called spearmint)
What distinguishes peppermint from other types of mint?
Peppermint has a menthol content that is higher than that of other types of mint. However, the random crossing contains less of the essential oil carvone.
In terms of taste, peppermint differs from other mints due to its quite pungent aroma. This gave the new crop the nickname “pepper”.
Mint is found on all continents
It is a coincidence that England is the origin of peppermint. Mint is found in hundreds of different varieties almost everywhere in the world.
Even in ancient times, mint was used as a medicinal herb for many ailments. That's why the herbs were often grown in large herb gardens.
This is what happened in the English town of Mitchum, near which the first peppermint with its sharp, refreshing aroma developed from three types of mint. It is no coincidence that the oldest variety of peppermint is called Black Mitchum.
Victory march around the world
The new hybrid quickly became widely used due to its unique blend of essential oils. Today it is planted in gardens and herb farms on every continent.
Tips & Tricks
Peppermint is offered in Germany almost exclusively under the generic term (Mentha x piperita). There are numerous varieties that differ in appearance and, above all, in taste. For peppermint lovers, it's worth taking a look at specialized seed and plant stores.
