Fresh and Fragrant: Exploring the Versatility of Peppermint Leaves

     I have a bad habit of buying plants that sound fun or unique, but when it's time to harvest them, I realize I don't know anything about it. Thus, here I am writing to tell you what I have learned about the ever-so-spreading peppermint plant in my backyard. Thankfully, I planted it in a container. I'm sure I had plenty of ideas on how to use the peppermint plant upon purchase, but here I am now wondering what I am going to do with all of these very aromatic leaves. Let's dive in and discover the many uses of the medicinal herb. Starting with my favorite so far:


Homemade Peppermint Essential Oil
    Although you cannot make "true" essential oil from the peppermint without proper distillation (which requires some equipment if you're wanting to try), you can make a similar variation. Here is the recipe I follow:
1 cup peppermint leaves
1 cup olive oil (or another similar oil such as grapeseed)

Directions:
1. Crush the leaves by using a pistil and mortar or by cutting them with a knife.
2. Add the leaves and oil to a glass jar; store in a cool, dry place.
3. Shake once a day for 4-6 weeks.
4. Strain out leaves with a fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth.
4. Done! Keep it stored in a cool, dry place in a glass jar. It can last 3-6 months.

Current batch marinating
@amateurndgardener Follow for more garden DIY! What’s your favorite use for peppermint? #gardentok #peppermintoil #peppermint #diy ♬ BILLIE EILISH. - Armani White


   My favorite uses for homemade peppermint "essential" oil:
  • Use in a DIY mouthwash or toothpaste recipe
  • Massage oil
  • Add to diffuser (though may not be as potent as store-bought essential oil)
  • Hair care
  • Skin care
  • Use it for cooking
*Disclaimer: It is not true peppermint essential oil because it has not been through a distilling process. Use at your own discretion.

    Here are a few more uses for peppermint leaves if peppermint oil is not on your to-do list:
  • Add to your favorite drinks! Mmmmojito's 😁
  • Peppermint tea
  • Spice up your water
  • Freshen up your breath 💋 It's almost as good as gum!
  • Insect repellant
  • Dry them for later use (dehydrator, oven, or good ole fashioned hang drying)
    Last but not least, here are some tips for picking the best peppermint leaves:
  • Choose the most vibrant green leaves free of damage
  • Pick them in the morning when they have the most flavor
  • Use a scissors or pruner to avoid damaging the plant
  • Harvest throughout the growing season to encourage new growth, careful not to over prune
Happy picking!

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