Spearmint Leaf (Mentha spicata)

Dried leaves of Mentha spicata, Spearmint, the sweeter of the two most-cultivated mints (alongside peppermint). Spearmint has a milder, slightly sweeter character than peppermint and is the mint used in classic mint juleps, mojitos, mint sauce, and Moroccan mint tea.

Key Facts

Botanical name

Mentha spicata

Family

Lamiaceae (mint family)

Common names

Spearmint, Common Mint, Garden Mint

Native region

Europe, Northern Africa, Western Asia; cultivated globally

Active compounds

Carvone (the primary spearmint compound), limonene

Distinct from

Peppermint (M. × piperita), the natural hybrid with higher menthol

What is Spearmint?

Spearmint is one of the parent species of peppermint (peppermint is a natural hybrid of spearmint and watermint). Spearmint has a sweeter, less sharp flavor than peppermint because its primary compound is carvone rather than menthol. Spearmint is the mint of culinary tradition across the Mediterranean, Middle East, North Africa, and the Americas.

How to Use Spearmint

For tea: steep 1-2 teaspoons of dried leaf per cup in hot water for 5-10 minutes. For Moroccan-style mint tea: combine spearmint with gunpowder green tea and sugar. Culinary uses: mint sauce, mojitos, mint juleps, salads, fruit salads, savory grain dishes.

Frequently Asked Questions

What's the difference between spearmint and peppermint?
Spearmint is sweeter and less sharp; peppermint is cooler and more intense due to its menthol content. They are different species (peppermint is the hybrid).

What is Moroccan mint tea?
A traditional preparation combining spearmint with gunpowder green tea and sugar. Iconic across North African and Middle Eastern hospitality traditions.

How do you make spearmint tea?
1-2 teaspoons of dried leaf per cup, steep 5-10 minutes.

Is spearmint safe for daily use?
Yes; spearmint is among the most well-tolerated daily herbs.

Can I use this in cooking?
Yes; dried spearmint works in most applications where fresh mint is called for (use about 1/3 the amount).

Does spearmint have caffeine?
No; spearmint is caffeine-free.

This product has not been approved by the Food and Drug Administration and is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. We recommend that you consult with a qualified healthcare practitioner before using any herbal products, particularly if you are pregnant, nursing, or on any medications.