Even though we have a month until the fall equinox, it feels like summer flew by and has already ended. My kids start school tomorrow. I have to remind myself that there are still many weeks left of harvesting, weeding, flowers, outdoor dinners, and lovely weather. For those hot days still to come this is a refreshing, cooling, and tasty treat.
Cantaloupe, Mint and Matcha Popsicles
1 cup of matcha and fresh mint tea
4 TBSP of honey
1/2 medium cantaloupe
Make the one cup of strong tea and let it cool to room temperature. In a blender or processor, add all of your ingredients and blend until smooth. Pour into popsicle molds and freeze until set.
Mentha is in the mint/Lamiaceae family and includes both peppermint (Mentha piperita) and spearmint( Mentha spicata). Peppermint is a hybrid perennial plant that is most often found cultivated in gardens. This herb is highly aromatic( menthol). It has erect, square, branching, purple stems. It’s opposite leaves are opposite, oval/lance shaped and often serrated. The sepals and petals are united to form tiny purple flower that have 5 two lipped lobes (2 up, 3 down). These are arranged at the ends of axillary and terminal spikes. Spearmint lacks the purple hues in it’s foliage and is a more vibrant green. The leaves are often greater in number, larger and more serrated and “wrinkled”. They are sessile and have a very short petiole where they join the stem. This plant is usually taller than peppermint. The flowers are more numerous/dense on a larger , interrupted spike. Mints can be invasive and spread quickly through their rhizomes. They will tolerate any kind of soil and thrive in both sun and shade. Grow mints near your vegetables to keep them free of insects and other pests. These plants are a favorite of native bees.
Mints are known for their ability to clean damp/phlegm, increase circulation to the tissues and relax blood vessels. Their volatile oils warm the body, open the pores, and encourage sweating. Historically they been used to treat cramps, spasms, colds, coughs, flu, fever, sinus infections, sore throat, headaches, high blood pressure, menstrual problems, painful urination, nausea/vomiting, heartburn, stomach ache/colic, gas, digestive issues, liver stagnation, ulcers, parasites, bad breath, gum disease, nervous disorders and fainting. Externally mint has been used to treat pain, inflammation, rheumatism, bruises, rashes, hives, bug bites, and skin issues. A steam inhalation may help with asthma, bronchitis, chest congestion and laryngitis. Mints improve the flavor of other teas, are used in many culinary traditions, and can be burned as incense. Spearmint tends to have a sweeter, less spicy/hot/medicinal flavor than peppermint.
Parts used:aerial above ground parts
Energetics: sweet, pungent, cool, warm, dry
Element: fire and water depending on variety
Emotional and Spiritual Uses:Prosperity. protection. Brings movement, openness, and warmth to life. Allows the mind to think quickly and clearly so that we can envision and future and manifest our dreams.
Contraindications: Avoid large doses in pregnancy and nursing. Long term therapeutic use can stress the heart.
Blackbird's Backyard Pharmacy 