Mountain mint

Mountain mint, scientifically known as Calamintha nepeta, is an aromatic plant from the mint family (Lamiaceae). It is native to the Mediterranean region and Central Europe and prefers to grow on calcareous soils in sunny, dry locations. The plant is valued for its pleasant scent and its versatile uses – both in the kitchen and in natural medicine.

What benefits does Mountain mint offer?

Mountain mint has been used as a medicinal plant for centuries and offers a range of potential health benefits. In studies, various of the compounds it contains showed effects that explain and support its use in traditional medicine. As always, not all studies can be applied one to one to use in humans, and further research is necessary to verify the results. Here are some of the benefits along with the corresponding research findings:

  • Supporting digestion: According to studies, the essential oils contained in Mountain mint could help with digestive complaints such as bloating, stomach cramps, and a feeling of fullness (1,2).
  • Calming and relaxation: The scent and the compounds of Mountain mint could have a calming effect on the nervous system, which could provide support during stress or sleep problems (3).
  • Antimicrobial properties: Studies show that Mountain mint contains antimicrobial compounds that could be effective against bacteria and fungi (1,4).
  • Relief of respiratory conditions: Inhalations with Mountain mint or teas made from its leaves can provide support for coughs, colds, and other respiratory complaints (3).

How does Mountain mint work?

The effects of Mountain mint are based on its bioactive compounds, including:

  • Essential oils: These are responsible for the characteristic mint scent and have anti-inflammatory, antispasmodic, and calming effects (1).
  • Flavonoids: They possess antioxidant properties that can protect cells from damage caused by free radicals (3,4,5).
  • Tannins: These have an astringent effect and can have a soothing effect on mild inflammation (6).

Intake recommendation

Mountain mint is traditionally used as a tea, tincture, or essential oil.

Essential oil from Mountain mint should only be used diluted and with caution, as it can have an irritating effect if used improperly.

Can you consume Mountain mint naturally through food?

The leaves of Mountain mint are excellently suited as a culinary herb in Mediterranean cuisine. They can be used fresh or dried to refine dishes such as salads, soups, and meat dishes. Their intense aroma is similar to that of peppermint but milder and slightly floral.

What risks does the use of Mountain mint involve?

  • Side effects: In sensitive individuals or at high doses, essential oils of Mountain mint, can cause stomach irritation or allergic reactions.
  • Risks: Pregnant women should avoid Mountain mint, as it could promote labor contractions. The use of essential oils should also be avoided in small children.
  • Allergies: People with known allergies to mints or other plants in the mint family should use Mountain mint with caution.

Conclusion

Mountain mint (Calamintha nepeta) is a versatile and beneficial medicinal and culinary plant. Its essential oils and other compounds offer potential for numerous health benefits, particularly for digestive complaints and respiratory problems. Nevertheless, it should be used with care, especially in sensitive individuals, pregnant women, and children. In the kitchen, Mountain mint impresses with its fine aroma and naturally enriches a wide variety of dishes.

Sources:

  1. Božović M, Ragno R. Calamintha nepeta (L.) Savi and its Main Essential Oil Constituent Pulegone: Biological Activities and Chemistry. Molecules. 2017 Feb 14;22(2):290. doi: 10.3390/molecules22020290. PMID: 28216606; PMCID: PMC6155702. (antimicrobial, antioxidant and anti-inflammatory)
  2. Demirci B., Temel H.E., Portakal T., Kırmızıbekmez H., Demirci F., Başer K.H.C. Inhibitory effect of Calamintha nepeta subsp. glandulosa essential oil on lipoxygenase. Turk. J. Biochem. 2011;36:290–295.
  3. Ceker, Selcuk & Agar, Guleray & Alpsoy, Lokman & Nardemir, Gokce & KIZIL, Hamit. (2013). Protective role of essential oils of Calamintha nepeta L. on oxidative and genotoxic damage caused by aflatoxin B1in vitro. Fresenius Environmental Bulletin. 22. 3258 - 3263.
  4. El Brahimi, R., El Barnossi, A., El Moussaoui, A., Chebaibi, M., Kachkoul, R., Baghouz, A., Nafidi, H. -A., Salamatullah, A. M., Bourhia, M., & Bari, A. (2023). Phytochemistry and Biological Activities of Essential Oils from Satureja calamintha Nepeta. Separations, 10(6), 344. https://doi.org/10.3390/separations10060344 antioxidant and antibacterial
  5. Salhi, Nadia & Deluyker, Dorien & Bito, Virginie & Zaid, Abdelhamid & El Rhaffari, Lhoussaine. (2024). In vitro biological activities of Calamintha nepeta L. aqueous extracts. Journal of Applied Biomedicine. 22. 155-163. 10.32725/jab.2024.017.
  6. Chung, K. T., Wong, T. Y., Wei, C. I., Huang, Y. W., & Lin, Y. (1998). Tannins and human health: a review. Critical reviews in food science and nutrition, 38(6), 421–464.[ https://doi.org/10.1080/10408699891274273