Mint vs Peppermint vs Spearmint: Difference and Comparison

Key Takeaways

1. Mint is a broad term for any plants in the mentha genus while peppermint and spearmint are specific varieties.
2. Peppermint has a stronger, cooler menthol flavor compared to the sweeter, more subtle spearmint.
3. Spearmint is commonly used in sweets like mint chocolate while peppermint flavors gum and candy canes.

What is Mint?

Mint is a perennial herb renowned for its delightful aroma and refreshing flavor. Belonging to the Mentha genus within the Lamiaceae family, mint plants feature square stems, opposite-toothed leaves, and a vibrant shade of green. The herb comes in various varieties, with peppermint and spearmint being the most well-known.

Mint is a versatile culinary herb, employed in both sweet and savory dishes, salads, soups, sauces, and desserts. It is also a popular choice for teas, beverages, and candies. Beyond its culinary applications, mint has historical medicinal use, aiding digestion, soothing upset stomachs, and providing mild relief from headaches and nasal congestion.

Additionally, mint holds cultural significance in various societies and is used in perfumes, cosmetics, and aromatherapy products due to its aromatic qualities.

What is Peppermint?

Peppermint is a specific variety of mint, scientifically known as Mentha × piperita. It is a hybrid mint that is believed to be a cross between watermint (Mentha aquatica) and spearmint (Mentha spicata). Peppermint is well-known for its strong and distinctive flavor, which is attributed to its high content of menthol, an aromatic compound responsible for the cooling and refreshing sensation it provides.

Peppermint is a highly regarded and widely utilized herb valued for its strong flavor, medicinal benefits, and aromatic properties. Its versatility and numerous applications in both culinary and non-culinary realms have solidified its place as one of the world’s most beloved and recognizable herbs.

What is Spearmint?

Spearmint, scientifically known as Mentha spicata, is a variety of mint and a member of the Lamiaceae (mint) family. It is a distinct species from peppermint (Mentha × piperita), though they share some similarities. Spearmint is well-known for its pleasant and mild flavor, which sets it apart from peppermint’s stronger and more intense taste.

Spearmint is a popular and versatile herb cherished for its mild and delightful flavor, making it a favored choice in numerous culinary dishes and beverages. Its gentle taste and potential health benefits have made it a valuable herb both in traditional medicine and modern applications, contributing to its widespread use in various aspects of daily life.

Difference Between Mint, Peppermint, Spearmint

1. “Mint” is a general term that refers to the entire Mentha plant family, which includes various species and hybrids of mint. Peppermint is a specific hybrid mint, scientifically known as Mentha × Piperita. It is a cross between watermint (Mentha aquatica) and spearmint (Mentha spicata). Spearmint, scientifically known as Mentha spicata, is a different species of mint from peppermint.
2. “Mint” flavor can vary depending on the specific type of mint used. It has a refreshing and slightly cool taste. Peppermint has a more intense and stronger flavor than regular mint. It contains a high amount of menthol, which gives it a distinctive cooling sensation. Spearmint has a milder and sweeter flavor compared to peppermint. It is described as having a more delicate taste with less menthol intensity.
3. The term “mint” can encompass various mint varieties, so the leaf appearance can vary. However, mints have broad, toothed leaves and square stems. Peppermint leaves are dark green with reddish-purple veins and slightly fuzzy to the touch. Spearmint leaves are bright green, lance-shaped, and have serrated edges.
4. As a broad term, Mint can be used in culinary applications, teas, and aromatherapy. Peppermint is commonly used in culinary dishes, candies, desserts, and herbal teas. It is also well-known for its medicinal properties, such as aiding digestion and alleviating headaches. Spearmint is used in culinary recipes, especially in Mediterranean and Middle Eastern cuisines. It is also used in teas and as a flavoring for gums and candies.
5. Mint, including peppermint and spearmint, has been historically used for its medicinal properties, including digestive aid and relief from indigestion.  Peppermint is particularly known for its digestive benefits and its ability to help alleviate symptoms such as bloating and gas. While spearmint also possesses some medicinal qualities, it is considered milder than peppermint in terms of its therapeutic effects.

Comparison Between Mint, Peppermint, and Spearmint

Parameters of Comparison	Mint	Peppermint	Spearmint
Botanical Name	Generic term for various types	Mentha × piperita	Mentha spicata
Flavor Profile	Refreshing, varies by type	Intense, strong menthol flavor	Mild, sweet, and herbal flavor
Menthol Content	Varies, can be low or moderate	High	Low
Leaf Appearance	Broad, toothed, square stems	Dark green with purple veins	Bright green, lance-shaped
Common Uses	Culinary, teas, aromatherapy	Culinary, medicinal, products	Culinary, teas, aromatherapy

References

1. https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/abs/10.1002/jps.3030470413
2. https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/0896844692900022

Last Updated : 28 August, 2023