Peppermint is a perennial herb, native to the Southern and Central parts of Europe. This plant is a cross between water mint and spear mint. It is widely used for food, beverage flavoring and aroma. Peppermint oil is the most sought after spice derivative.


Trade in Peppermint
USA is the leading producer of peppermint and its derivatives. US accounts for nearly 80% of the world peppermint production. India is also commercially growing peppermint mainly for its essential oil. It is expensive and thus traded in low volumes. The price of the product depends on the quality.

Uses of Peppermint
Peppermint is basically used for its aroma and flavoring characteristics in a number of products including:

• Tea
• Toothpaste, powder and mouthwash,
• Confectionery
• Chewing gum
• Ice cream
• Medicine : Peppermint is used for curing stomach problems, inhibiting growth of certain bacteria, relaxing muscles etc.
• Cosmetics
• Aromatherapy