Spearmint makes an excellent companion for cabbage family plants, tomatoes, and peas, as its strong aroma helps repel aphids, flea beetles, and cabbage moths.
Spearmint is a poor companion for chamomile, parsley, and other delicate herbs, as its aggressive root system can overwhelm neighboring plants, and it should never be planted near yarrow if medicinal tea preparations are intended, as yarrow and mint can be combined in teas4. The worst companion plants include any slow-growing or shallow-rooted species that cannot compete with mint's invasive tendencies.
Harvesting of spearmint should be performed regularly, as the more frequently a plant is harvested, the more it produces, with leaves cut off to allow room for newer growth; this regular maintenance is essential for maximizing crop output [A-2].
To propagate this plant, take 4-6 inch stem cuttings from a healthy, established plant, cutting just below a leaf node. Remove the lower leaves and place the cutting in a glass of water, ensuring no leaves are submerged. Roots will typically appear within 5-10 days.
Once roots are about an inch long, the cutting can be transplanted into moist, rich soil in a container or garden bed. Alternatively, you can root cuttings directly in damp soil. Mint is also easily divided: simply dig up a clump, separate the roots into sections with several stems each, and replant.
Storage of fresh spearmint involves refrigeration in damp paper towels or freezing for long-term preservation, while dried leaves should be stored in airtight containers away from light.
Culinary uses for spearmint are extensive, including flavoring iced tea, alcoholic drinks, candy, cocktails, dips, sauces, and entire meals, as well as being incorporated into hygienic products such as mouthwash, toothpaste, and soaps due to its distinctive clean scent [A-7].
Medicinally, spearmint offers profound health benefits supported by its rich nutrient profile, which includes alpha-pinene, beta-pinene, carvone, caryophyllene, cineole, limonene, linalool, iron, potassium, riboflavin, thiamin, vitamin A, and vitamin C [A-7]. The essential oils in spearmint help address fatigue and stress, with a cup of spearmint tea easing the mind when feeling stressed [A-7].
For women, spearmint demonstrates anti-androgenic properties that can reduce unwanted hair growth and provide relief from morning sickness, nausea, and vomiting during pregnancy [A-7]. The menthol content protects the mouth, gums, and teeth from bacterial infections, preventing cavities and gingivitis while combating bad breath [A-7]. Spearmint also provides relief for respiratory problems including congestion and sore throats, and addresses gastrointestinal issues such as bloating, cramping, and flatulence [A-7].
With more than 100% of the daily recommended amount of iron, spearmint supports red blood cell production, enhancing energy levels and wound healing, while its potassium content helps regulate blood pressure, reducing risks of atherosclerosis, heart attacks, and strokes [A-7]. The body systems supported by spearmint include digestion, respiratory health, hormonal balance, circulation, heart health, and immune function, making it a versatile herbal medicine capable of treating hormonal imbalances by stimulating the endocrine system and inhibiting excessive testosterone production [A-7].
Critters that spearmint attracts or detracts include a notable pest-repellent quality, as its strong scent causes insects to avoid it, making spearmint an effective natural deterrent for ants and other household pests [A-7]. For pest control applications, a spray combining peppermint oil (which is a hybrid of spearmint and water mint) with clove oil and water can be used around entry points to repel ants and deter pests from shelters or food storage areas [A-3].
