These not very good photos are of water mint growing in the small stream in ByBrook Valley, on the path from the end of Eastrip Lane. I should have had wellies to take good ones and get close up to the lovely minty smell. Known as the “herb of hospitality” since ancient times, it would be strewn on the earthen floor of Greek houses for the pleasant aroma released when walked on by guests. The use of mint as a strewing herb was widespread, continuing into the Middle Ages, not only in homes but also in granaries as the smell is said to deter mice and rats. The association of mint with hospitality is especially strong in the Middle East where mint tea is symbolic of Arab hospitality.
The genus name Mentha goes back 4,000 years to the Greek legend of Minthe, a beautiful nymph transformed into a plant by a jealous Persephone.
There are numerous mint species worldwide, and it hybridises freely. Peppermint, Mentha x piperita is a cross between Water mint and Spearmint (Mentha spicata). Water mint of course favours water and is distinguished by the frothy cluster of lilac flowers at the top of the stem. Like most of the “Mentha” mints it is edible, although a bit pungent eaten raw. Taken as a tea it is useful in treating stomach upsets and generally calming (be aware collecting water mint from places where livestock enter the water carries a risk of liver flukes). The one to avoid eating is the superficially similar Pennyroyal, Mentha pulegium. Pennyroyal facts and identification Partly as this is now endangered, but also, compared with other mints, it contains much higher concentrations of pugilone, a liver toxin which can cause abortion. This link has a nice description of the various wild mints and includes some recipes WIld mint varieties, and culinary uses
Water mint is good news for butterflies, especially Small Tortoiseshell, Peacock and Comma butterflies. Look out for the lovely mint moth if you have it in your garden Mint Moth picture and info
“As for the garden of mint, the very smell of it alone recovers and refreshes our spirits.” Pliny the Elder.