Mentha (also known as Mint, from Greek míntha) is a genus of plants in the family Lamiaceae (mint family). Mint is widely used in Indian cuisine. The leaf, fresh or dried, is the culinary source of mint. Fresh mint is usually preferred over dried mint when storage of the mint is not a problem. The leaves have a warm, fresh, aromatic, sweet flavor with a cool aftertaste. Mint leaves are used in teas, beverages, jellies, syrups, candies, and ice creams.
Mint was originally used as a medicinal herb to treat stomach ache and chest pains, and it is commonly used in the form of tea as a home remedy to help alleviate stomach pain. The strong, sharp flavor and scent of mint is sometimes used as a mild decongestant for illnesses such as the common cold.
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