What is mint?
Did you know that there are 25 different type of mint? Including peppermint and spearmint, all species can be easily distinguished by the fresh, cleansing scent emitted from their leaves. Each unique in aroma and taste, all types of mint can be used in various ways, such as adding it to drinks, using it in cooking, or even using it as a natural remedy. An aromatic plant, mint is truly a remarkable herb with many benefits. We use mint across our digestion, calm and seasonal range to bring its many qualities to our popular Three Mint, Breathe In & Peace tea.
When is the best time to drink mint tea?
The best time to drink mint tea is after meals.
What does mint taste like?
Mint has a refreshing and cooling flavour.
What are the benefits of mint?
Mint is one of our favourite herbs, and it's been treasured for centuries for its many benefits. Not only does it soothe and cool the digestive system, but due to the plant being rich in menthol essential oils it calms the nervous and respiratory systems. Let us guide you through the many benefits of this wonderful plant in our wellbeing article.
What does mint look like?
Members of the mint family can be distinguished by their square stems and fragrant leaves. But, the shape of the leaves can differ depending on the type of mint. For instance, Apple mint has softer, rounder leaves, while Spearmint and Peppermint have jaggedly toothed edges.
Where does mint come from?
Native to Eurasia, North America, southern Africa, and Australia, mint is widely distributed throughout the temperate areas of the world and have naturalised in many places. With a rich history dating back over 3,000 years, it was the Romans who popularised peppermint and spearmint. As their empire grew they spread their love for these refreshing and fragrant herbs.
Where does Pukka source it’s mint?
We always strive to source our field mint sustainability which can sometimes be a challenge. In a bid to create a wider diversity of growers, Pukka has been working with our Indian supplier to establish new organic field mint farmers beyond the traditional growing lands in Uttar Pradesh. Cultivating this herb in other regions saves water, reduces the crop’s carbon footprint and increases the yield and production of crops.
What can I do with mint leaves?
Make fresh mint tea
Make mint water
Make mint ice cubes
Add to recipes
How to make mint tea
To make a delightful cup of mint tea, simply pluck a few leaves of fresh mint from your plant, and gently roll the sprigs between your hands to release their aromatic essential oils. Place 1 or 2 sprigs in your mug, and pour in freshly boiled water. Allow the tea to steep for 3-5 minutes, and then sip and savour the refreshing flavour of pure mint goodness. For an extra zing, add a slice of lemon and a squeeze of lemon juice. While you can use dried mint leaves, we highly recommend using fresh mint to experience its full flavour.
Feel the refreshing and cooling benefits of a cup of mint tea. Try our selection of mint teas and find your favourite.
How to make mint water
To create a truly refreshing and invigorating cold drink, steep a generous handful of mint leaves in freshly boiled water for 15 minutes. As the mint infuses the water, its natural flavours and aromas are concentrated, resulting in a truly flavourful experience for the senses. Add two ice cubes to cool the water to a soothing lukewarm temperature, then pour it into a jug and mix in a liter of water. You can enjoy this delicious drink straight away with a garnish of mint leaves or can let it chill in the fridge for an hour to enjoy on a hot summers day.
How to make mint ice cubes
You can easily turn ordinary ice cubes into refreshing and pretty summer treats which will make any drink extra special! First, rinse the mint to wash off any residue. Then place one mint leaf into each square of an ice cube tray until each one is filled. Using a low-pressure stream of water, fill the ice cube trays. Then just freeze until completely set. Pop the ice out of the trays and store in a freezer bag, so they are always ready to use to liven up your summer dinks.
Tip: For extra flavour, you can also add sliced fruit, such as strawberries or citrus, to the ice cube trays before filling with water. This will add a subtle fruity taste to your drinks as the ice cubes melt.
What is a sprig of mint?
You will often come across the term ‘a sprig of mint’ in recipes but what does this mean? A sprig of mint is measured in leaves; it’s approximately 1 tsp of leaves after it’s been chopped and settled. To settle the leaves, add them to your measuring spoon and tap it on the counter. You can also add whole leaves as a garnish.
How to grow mint from seeds:
Step 1: Finely sprinkle the tiny seeds on the well-drained or moist soil or peat-free organic compost.
Step 2: Cover with a thin layer of compost and water well.
Step 3: Place your pot in a warm place. It can be room temperature but it should be exposed to light to allow germination.
Step 4: Once your mint starts growing, water it once or twice weekly. A yellow leaf shows you are overwatering your mint.
Step 5: Fertilize your mint with an organic seaweed or other house plant feed. Give mint plants plenty of water, especially during hot weather.
We recommend growing your mint in a pot or planting it in partial shade or full sun. It's important to note that mint can be very vigorous and spread quickly. To contain its growth, we suggest using a large pot filled with multi-purpose compost or a bottomless container sunk into the soil with the rim above ground level. It's also best to avoid growing different varieties of mint together to preserve their unique scent and flavour. When summer ends, be sure to cut back the flowered shoots to 5cm from the base.