Mint is super easy to grow; in a pot or in a designated space. In the ground, it is a perennial, will self spread, can be enjoyed fresh through the season, and then dried for winter tea.

Mint is a tried and true medicinal herb, in addition to a yummy, mind-settling tea. Its primary use is for tummy upset, which often results from improper food combining and/or over-indulgence. A cup of mint tea will not only refresh the palate, but will usually reduce gas. However, mint is not a curative if the cause of bloating is poor eating habits. That cure is one’s self.

Mint requires a good five to six hours of sunlight; will grow in most soil bases, requires medium watering, yet will tolerate low-medium watering. Because it will spread, a designated mint bed is a wise idea.

Pick it fresh through the season. Add sprigs to cold or hot water and drink. Rub the fresh sprigs in your hands to open the leaves and release their oils first. Use mint leaves as a cuisine ingredient. Then, as the season completes, harvest non-flowering stems of leaves, tie them with cotton twine, and hang them in a window that is not baking in the sun. In a week, the stems are dry and ready to strip. Do so outside ‘cuz little pieces of leaf will be generated. I store mine in a canister where the hot-pot is. Enjoy! Be healthy!

And, some of the last tomato beauties!