Welcome to Part 10 of our 30-part Garden Series. Today’s guide dives into growing medicinal plants at home — an ancient yet increasingly popular practice.
Whether you want to heal a cold, ease digestion, or simply boost immunity, having a small herbal garden can save you trips to the pharmacy and provide powerful natural remedies right at your doorstep.
Why Grow Medicinal Plants?
✅ Easily accessible natural remedies
✅ Saves money on over-the-counter meds
✅ Fresh and chemical-free herbs
✅ Boosts immunity and wellness
✅ Deepens connection to nature and healing traditions
🌿 Indoor Kitchen Garden: Place on sunny windowsills
🧱 Vertical Walls: Grow in stacked containers or hanging pots
Soil, Water & Care Tips
Use well-draining organic soil with compost
Water as per plant type — succulents like aloe need less
Prune regularly to promote healthy growth
Avoid chemical fertilizers — use compost or vermiwash
Harvesting & Storing Medicinal Plants
✅ Leaves (Tulsi, Mint): Pluck fresh or dry in shade
✅ Roots (Ginger, Turmeric): Harvest after 6–8 months
✅ Stems (Giloy): Cut 6-inch stem segments for use
✅ Storage: Dry herbs in a cool dark place and store in airtight jars
How to Use Medicinal Plants Safely
Always identify plants correctly
Use in moderation and consult a herbal expert for chronic issues
Prefer fresh use over commercial extracts
Avoid during pregnancy or if on medications without doctor’s advice
DIY Herbal Remedies You Can Make
Tulsi Tea: Boost immunity — boil 5–6 tulsi leaves in water
Aloe Vera Gel: Scoop fresh gel for burns and skincare
Ginger Honey Decoction: Relief from cold and cough
Mint Infusion: Aids digestion and reduces nausea
Neem Paste: For acne or skin rashes
Common Problems & Fixes
ProblemCauseSolutionYellowing LeavesOverwateringReduce water, ensure drainageFungal GrowthPoor air circulationPrune and avoid overwateringSlow GrowthNutrient deficiencyAdd compost or vermicompost
Final Thoughts
Growing medicinal plants is a timeless gift to your health, your family, and the planet. With just a few pots or a small patch of earth, you can create a living pharmacy that heals naturally.
Start with 3–4 easy herbs like tulsi, mint, and aloe vera. Observe, care, and enjoy nature’s healing power one leaf at a time.
mint vs pudina, peppermint vs spearmint, mint types, mint benefits, pudina uses, mint tea differences Category: Herbal Plants Tags: Mint, Pudina, Spearmint, Peppermint, Herbal Tea, Medicinal Plants, Aromatic Herbs
mint vs pudina, peppermint vs spearmint, mint types, mint benefits,
🌱 Introduction: Why This Confusion Exists?
Mint is one of the most widely used herbs in the world. From toothpaste to chutney, from tea to aromatherapy oils — mint is everywhere. But the confusion starts when people hear different names:
Mint
Pudina
Peppermint
Spearmint
Are they all the same? Is pudina just a Hindi word for mint? What’s the actual difference between peppermint and spearmint?
Let’s settle the confusion once and for all — with science, history, taste, and usage.
🍃 What Is Mint?
Mint is a general term used to describe plants in the Mentha genus. This family includes more than 20 species and hundreds of hybrid varieties.
The most common types of mint are:
Mentha spicata – Known as Spearmint
Mentha × piperita – Known as Peppermint (a natural hybrid of spearmint and watermint)
Mentha arvensis – Known as Field Mint or Pudina in India
Mint is known for:
Its strong, cooling aroma (due to menthol)
Culinary uses (chutneys, drinks, desserts)
Medicinal uses (digestion, colds, stress)
Cosmetic and commercial uses (toothpaste, balms, perfumes)
🌿 Pudina vs Mint: Same or Different?
Many Indians believe Pudina is just the Hindi word for Mint, but here’s the truth:
Term Botanical Name Common Region Notes
Mint Genus: Mentha Global Umbrella term for all types Pudina Mentha arvensis India, Asia Used in chutneys & medicines Peppermint Mentha × piperita Europe, USA Hybrid with high menthol content Spearmint Mentha spicata Mediterranean, USA Sweet, mild flavor
✅ So yes, Pudina is a type of mint, but not all mint is pudina. Mint is the family, pudina is one species in that family. 🌿 Mint vs Pudina vs Peppermint vs Spearmint
Part 2: Understanding Spearmint & Peppermint – The Western Cousins
🍃 What Is Spearmint? (Mentha spicata)
Spearmint is one of the most popular mint species in the world. It is known for its sweet, mild flavor and is widely used in chewing gum, toothpaste, mojitos, and mint sauces.
🌍 Regions Grown:
Mediterranean region
USA (especially in Washington, Oregon)
Europe
Parts of Asia
🌿 Botanical Name:
Mentha spicata
🧪 Key Characteristics:
Contains less menthol (about 0.5%) compared to peppermint
Softer, sweeter aroma
Leaves are bright green, elongated, and slightly wrinkled
🍽️ Uses:
Cooking: In sauces, salads, and drinks
Tea: Light and refreshing taste
Oral care: Toothpaste, mouthwash
Cosmetics: Mild scented oils and scrubs
Traditional medicine: Used for digestion and headaches
🍃 What Is Peppermint? (Mentha × piperita)
Peppermint is a natural hybrid between spearmint and watermint. It has a much higher menthol content, giving it a strong, cool flavor.
🌍 Regions Grown:
USA (Idaho, Oregon)
UK
Japan
Northern India (in commercial farms)
🌿 Botanical Name:
Mentha × piperita
🧪 Key Characteristics:
Contains 40%+ menthol
Intense cooling taste
Darker green leaves
Slightly purplish stem
Commonly used in medicinal products
🍽️ Uses:
Essential oils: Balm, pain relief, aromatherapy
Tea: Cold & flu relief, digestion
Food: Chocolates, ice cream, candies
Industry: Perfumes, cosmetics, pharma
🔬 Key Differences Between Peppermint & Spearmint:
Feature Spearmint Peppermint
Menthol Content ~0.5% 35-45% Taste Sweet, light Sharp, intense, cooling Leaf Color Bright green Dark green Stem Color Green Reddish-purple Common Use Chewing gum, cooking Medicine, balms, chocolates Botanical Name Mentha spicata Mentha × piperita
🧠 Fun Fact:
In Ayurveda and Unani medicine, Mentha arvensis (Pudina) is used for digestive, skin, and respiratory disorders. But in western herbal medicine, Peppermint is more commonly prescribed due to its potent menthol content.
Part 3: Visual, Taste, and Aroma Differences – How to Identify Them Easily
🖼️ 3D Visual Comparison (Leaves, Color, Structure)
Name Leaf Shape & Texture Color Stem
Pudina Oval, crinkled, fuzzy, strong veins Dark green Green or brownish Mint General term — can resemble pudina, spearmint Medium green Varies Spearmint Lance-shaped, smoother than pudina Bright green Light green Peppermint Long oval, smoother but with slight veins Deep green Reddish-purple
📌 Note: Visual differences may be small. Smell and taste are more reliable.
👃 Aroma Differences – Smell Test
Name Smell Type Intensity
Pudina Earthy, herbal, spicy Medium-Strong Mint (Generic) Mildly refreshing Medium Spearmint Sweet, smooth, fresh Soft Peppermint Intense, cool, menthol Very Strong
Indian Vegetable Market Mostly Pudina (Mentha arvensis) Packaged Mint Tea (India) Pudina or Spearmint mix Western Mint Oil Bottle Usually Peppermint Mojito in a Restaurant Usually Spearmint
🌐 What Do People Call It Around the World?
Region Common Name Used Likely Type
India Pudina Mentha arvensis USA Mint, Peppermint Mentha × piperita Europe Mint, Spearmint Mentha spicata Middle East Nana Spearmint or Peppermint Japan Hakuka Japanese Mint (Mentha arvensis) Part 4: Health Benefits, Medicinal Uses & Global Healing Wisdom
🧪 1. Nutritional Content of All Four Types
Compound Pudina Peppermint Spearmint
Menthol Low Very High Medium Vitamin A High Moderate High Antioxidants Good Excellent Excellent Iron High Moderate Moderate Calcium Moderate Moderate High
Mint (generic) varies depending on the type used.
🌱 2. Health Benefits of Pudina
✅ Improves digestion (Indian households use it in chutneys, buttermilk)
✅ Reduces nausea and gas
✅ Acts as mild decongestant
✅ Kills oral bacteria (used in Ayurvedic toothpaste)
✅ Cools the body in summer
Used in Ayurveda: As an ingredient in Pudina Vati, gas relief syrups, pitta-shamak churnas
✅ Relieves headache (peppermint oil rubbed on temples)
✅ Used in modern cough syrups and balms
✅ Natural mouth freshener (found in gum, toothpaste, lozenges)
Western medicine uses peppermint extract in pharma-grade oils, IBS capsules, balms, inhalers
🍃 4. Spearmint Benefits (Mentha spicata)
✅ Balances hormones (especially in women – lowers androgens)
✅ Reduces acne caused by PCOS
✅ Has anti-inflammatory and anti-bacterial effects
✅ Helps with nausea and motion sickness
✅ Used in Mojitos, chewing gums, mint sauces
Used in Traditional Greek, Middle Eastern, and Chinese medicine
🌍 5. Global Medicinal Use by Type
Region Type Used Purpose
India Pudina Digestive, cooling, anti-gas USA/Europe Peppermint Decongestant, pain reliever Middle East Spearmint Tea, breath freshener, digestive aid China Peppermint Cough relief, fever reduction Africa Wild Mint Insect repellent, painkiller
☯️ 6. Mint in Ayurveda vs Chinese vs Modern Medicine
System Uses Preferred Type
Ayurveda Digestive, cooling, pitta cure Pudina Chinese Medicine Clears heat, soothes liver Peppermint Modern Pharma IBS, cold relief, cosmetics Peppermint & Spearmint
💡 Final Wisdom:
Pudina is not exactly Mint.
Peppermint and Spearmint are not interchangeable.
Health benefits vary by type.
Menthol strength is highest in Peppermint, not Pudina.
Part 5: Culinary Uses – Which One to Use and When
🍽️ 1. Pudina in Indian Cuisine
Pudina is the king of summer herbs in India, used in:
Chutneys – blended with coriander, lemon, spices
Buttermilk (Chaas) – for cooling digestive properties
Mint parathas – mixed in dough
Pulao/Biryani – fresh pudina leaves add aroma
Street Foods – Pani Puri water, dahi puri
✅ Strong flavor when fresh ✅ Mild bitterness when dried ✅ Easily available in Indian kitchens and markets
🧁 2. Peppermint in Western Foods
Candies and mints – peppermint oil is base
Chocolates – like After Eight, mint-filled treats
Mint Ice Cream – green color often added
Cocktails & Mocktails – mint syrup + soda
Peppermint Tea – calming, used as herbal tea bag
❄️ Note: Peppermint is too strong for cooking. It’s mostly used in infused liquids, desserts, or oils.
🍹 3. Spearmint in Middle Eastern and Mediterranean Cuisine
Spearmint Tea – traditional digestive in Arab regions
✅ Sweeter, lighter taste than peppermint ✅ Best for drinks and savory dishes ✅ Used fresh, not dried
🥗 4. Common Mistakes People Make
Mistake What Happens
Using peppermint in chutney Overpowering bitter taste Replacing spearmint with pudina Wrong flavor in mojito Drying pudina for tea Loses most aroma Using wrong mint in essential oil May irritate skin or lungs
🍽️ 5. Cooking Compatibility Table
Dish Type Best Mint Type Why?
Indian Chutney Pudina Traditional & easily digestible Herbal Tea Peppermint Strong menthol – soothes throat Mojito Spearmint Sweet aroma blends with lime Chocolate Desserts Peppermint Pairs well with cocoa Salads Spearmint Fresh and mild, not overpowering
🍛 6. Fun Culinary Facts
✅ Pudina turns bitter when overcooked – always add at the end.
✅ Spearmint stays stable in oils – good for sauces and dressings.
✅ Peppermint is best used as extract, not chopped.
✅ Mint + Curd combo is great for gut health.
✅ Dry pudina loses 80% aroma — use fresh always.
🍷 7. Drinks Around the World Using Mint
Drink Name Region Mint Used
Mojito Cuba Spearmint Pudina Chaas India Pudina Moroccan Mint Tea Morocco Spearmint Peppermint Hot Cocoa USA Peppermint Mint Margarita Global Pudina or Spearmint
Part 6: Cultivation, Farming, and Global Market Demand
🌱 1. Can You Grow Them at Home?
✅ Pudina (Indian Mint)
Very easy to grow in small pots or gardens
Grows from cuttings or root divisions
Loves moist soil and partial sunlight
✅ Peppermint
Grows best in cooler climates
Needs deep containers as it spreads aggressively
Prefers slightly acidic, well-drained soil
✅ Spearmint
Less aggressive than peppermint
Ideal for garden beds
Grows well in warm & temperate zones
🧑🌾 2. Commercial Mint Farming
Variety Best Grown In Harvest Time Yield (per acre)
Pudina India, Nepal, Pakistan 3–4 months ~12–15 tons/year Peppermint USA, China, Europe 4–5 months ~10 tons/year Spearmint Mediterranean regions 3–4 months ~9–12 tons/year
✅ India is the world’s largest producer of Pudina ✅ USA leads in Peppermint oil production (mainly in Oregon, Washington)
🌍 3. Market Demand & Export Potential
Global Mint Market value crossed $8 Billion USD in 2024
High demand for:
Mint oils (cosmetics, food)
Tea blends
Pharmaceuticals
Toothpaste & gums
🔥 Top Exporters: USA, India, China, Morocco 📈 Fast-growing trend: Organic Mint Farming
💰 4. Farming Profitability
Type Market Rate/kg (Avg) Profit/Acre (Annual)
Pudina ₹15–₹25 ₹1.5 to ₹2 lakhs Peppermint Oil ₹2500–₹3500/litre ₹3 to ₹5 lakhs Spearmint ₹40–₹60 ₹1.8 to ₹2.2 lakhs
🌿 Note: Extracting oil needs distillation units 🌿 Dried mint sells for less – fresh has higher value
🧪 5. Industrial Uses of Each Type
Use Type Pudina Peppermint Spearmint
Essential Oils ❌ Rarely used ✅ Highly used ✅ Mild use Ayurveda/Unani ✅ Yes ✅ Yes ✅ Yes Toothpaste ❌ Rare ✅ Major usage ✅ Medium use Chewing Gum ❌ Less ✅ Primary flavor ✅ Also used Perfumes ❌ ✅ Yes ✅ Yes
🏡 6. Home Garden Tips
Always plant mint in separate pots – roots spread fast
🌱 Pro Tip: Use organic compost, and rotate mint with leafy greens like coriander or lettuce for best soil health.
🌿 Mint vs Pudina vs Peppermint vs Spearmint: Final Conclusion + FAQs
🔍 Final Comparison Table – Everything at a Glance
Feature Pudina (Indian Mint) Peppermint Spearmint Common Mint (Mentha)
Botanical Name Mentha arvensis Mentha × piperita Mentha spicata Mentha genus Taste Strong & pungent Intense & cooling Mild, sweet & smooth Varies by species Main Use Cooking, chutneys Oil, toothpaste, tea Mojito, salad, cosmetics General culinary Menthol Content Medium Very High (40%+) Low (<1%) Varies Common Confusion With mint/peppermint With pudina/spearmint With pudina/peppermint With all types Grown In India, Nepal USA, China, Europe Mediterranean, India Worldwide Essential Oil Use Low High Medium Based on type
🌐 Global Awareness: Why This Confusion Exists
Local Language Differences:
Pudina in Hindi ≠ Peppermint in English
Mint = umbrella term in English
Similar Smell & Look:
Many mints look alike unless closely observed
Lack of Botanical Knowledge:
Most people use the word “Mint” for all types
Marketing Confusion:
Many tea and cosmetic brands mix names for appeal
🌎 A Global Message
🌱 “One Name, Many Plants – But Each Has Unique Power”
Let’s not blindly consume herbs without knowing what they are. In a world full of herbal teas, toothpaste, oils, and medicines, we must:
Identify plants properly
Understand their effects
Choose consciously – especially in health & food
🌍 When you sip that mint tea, ask: Which mint is it really?
🙋♂️ Final 10 FAQs
Is Pudina the same as Mint?
No, pudina is a type of mint – specifically Indian mint (Mentha arvensis).
Is Peppermint used in Indian kitchens?
Rarely. It’s mostly used in Western herbal teas, gums, and toothpaste.
Can I grow all 3 types at home?
Yes! Pudina, peppermint, and spearmint can all be grown in pots.
Which mint has the strongest smell?
Peppermint due to high menthol (up to 45%).
Is spearmint better for kids?
Yes, it’s milder, safer for sensitive people.
Why does Pudina chutney taste different?
Because of Indian climate and specific mint cultivar (Mentha arvensis).
Is there any harmful effect of mint?
Overuse of peppermint oil may cause digestive upset.
Which one is best for tea?
Depends on taste – peppermint is intense, spearmint is light.
Can I use dried mint instead of fresh?
Yes, but flavor will be less intense.
What’s the rarest mint?
Chocolate mint, apple mint, and wild hybrids found in Europe.
Plants are prepared from root cuttings instead of seeds
Irrigation:
Does not require much water
Irrigation once in 20–25 days in summer
Weed control:
Weeding is necessary for the first 2–3 months
Organic manure (such as cow dung manure) is beneficial
Preparation and harvesting:
The crop is ready in 18–24 months
The roots are uprooted and dried in the sun
Then sold in the market
Benefits of liquorice:
Used in Ayurvedic medicines It is
Useful in cough, sore throat, stomach ailments
Crop that grows in less water – beneficial in dry areas
8–12 quintals of dry roots can be obtained in 1 acre
Its price in the market is ₹150–300 per kg
Introduction
Muleti, commonly known as Mulethi or Licorice, is a highly valued herb in traditional medicine and the pharmaceutical industry. Known for its natural sweetness and numerous health benefits, Mulethi has been used for thousands of years in Ayurveda, Unani, and Chinese medicine.
This blog post will guide you through the complete journey of Muleti—from its health benefits and multiple uses to cultivation practices and the market potential for farmers. Whether you are a health enthusiast or a farmer looking for a profitable crop, this guide is for you.
What is Muleti (Mulethi)?
Muleti, scientifically called Glycyrrhiza glabra, is a perennial herbaceous plant native to parts of Asia and Europe. The root of this plant is primarily used for its medicinal properties and natural sweetness, which is about 50 times sweeter than sugar.
Mulethi is known for its licorice flavor and is commonly used as a natural sweetener in candies, beverages, and traditional medicines.
Health Benefits of Muleti (Mulethi)
Muleti is packed with bioactive compounds that offer various health benefits. Here are some of the scientifically proven advantages of Mulethi:
1. Soothes Sore Throat and Cough
Mulethi acts as a natural expectorant, relieving throat irritation and reducing cough. Its anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties make it effective for treating respiratory issues.
2. Aids Digestive Health
It promotes digestion by stimulating the production of gastric juices and reducing inflammation in the stomach lining, helping with conditions like indigestion and gastritis.
3. Anti-inflammatory and Antioxidant Properties
The compounds in Mulethi help reduce inflammation and protect cells from oxidative stress, which can prevent chronic diseases.
4. Supports Immune System
Mulethi boosts immunity by stimulating the body’s defense mechanisms against infections.
5. Skin Health and Anti-Aging
Its antioxidant content helps fight skin aging, reduces pigmentation, and treats skin conditions like eczema and acne.
6. Regulates Blood Sugar
Studies suggest Mulethi may help regulate blood sugar levels, making it beneficial for diabetic patients.
7. Hormonal Balance and Stress Relief
Mulethi helps regulate cortisol levels, aiding in stress management and hormonal balance.
Uses of Muleti (Mulethi)
Mulethi’s versatile nature makes it popular across various industries:
1. Herbal Medicine
Used extensively in Ayurveda and traditional Chinese medicine for treating respiratory, digestive, and skin ailments.
2. Natural Sweetener
Due to its intense sweetness, Mulethi is used as a sugar substitute in candies, beverages, and herbal teas.
3. Cosmetic Industry
Mulethi extract is used in skincare products for its anti-inflammatory and skin-brightening effects.
4. Food Industry
Used as a flavoring agent in food and beverages.
5. Pharmaceutical Industry
Used in the preparation of cough syrups, lozenges, and other medicines.
How to Cultivate Muleti (Mulethi)?
If you are a farmer looking to grow Muleti, here is a detailed guide on cultivation practices.
Climate and Soil Requirements
Mulethi grows best in subtropical to temperate climates.
It requires well-drained sandy loam to loam soils with a pH between 6.0 and 8.0.
The plant thrives in areas with moderate rainfall (500-1000 mm annually).
Propagation Methods
Mulethi is propagated through seeds or root cuttings.
Root cuttings are preferred for faster establishment and better yield.
Land Preparation
Prepare the field by plowing and leveling.
Add organic manure or compost to improve soil fertility.
Planting
Plant root cuttings or seeds at the onset of the monsoon season.
Maintain spacing of about 30-45 cm between plants and 45-60 cm between rows.
Irrigation
Regular irrigation is essential during the initial growth period.
Once established, Mulethi can tolerate moderate drought.
Fertilizer Application
Apply nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium fertilizers based on soil testing.
Organic fertilizers are recommended for better root quality.
Weed Control
Keep the field weed-free during early growth stages.
Mulching can help suppress weed growth.
Pest and Disease Management
Common pests include aphids and root-knot nematodes.
Use organic pesticides or neem-based sprays to control pests.
Avoid waterlogging to prevent root rot disease.
Harvesting
Roots are harvested after 2-3 years when they attain optimum size.
Carefully dig roots to avoid damage.
Clean and dry roots properly before storage or sale.
Market Potential and Profitability of Muleti Farming
Muleti has a strong demand in both domestic and international markets due to its medicinal and industrial uses.
Domestic Market
High demand in Ayurvedic pharmaceutical companies.
Growing popularity in herbal tea and natural sweetener segments.
Export Market
India is one of the leading exporters of Mulethi roots and extracts.
Major importing countries include the USA, Europe, and the Middle East.
Price Trends
Prices fluctuate based on quality, root size, and market demand.
Typically, good quality dried roots fetch ₹150-300 per kg.
Profitability
Investment is moderate with good returns due to multiple uses.
Intercropping with short-term crops can increase overall farm income.
How to Process Muleti (Mulethi) Roots for Sale?
Cleaning and Drying
Wash roots thoroughly to remove soil.
Dry them under shade to retain medicinal properties.
Grinding and Packaging
Roots can be ground into powder for easier packaging and usage.
Store in airtight containers to prevent moisture absorption.
Tips for Buying Quality Muleti Products
Look for organically grown Mulethi with no chemical residues.
Choose products with proper certifications like Ayurvedic Pharmacopeia.
Avoid products with added sugars or fillers.
FAQs About Muleti (Mulethi)
1. Is Muleti safe for everyone?
While generally safe, excessive consumption can cause side effects. Pregnant women and people with high blood pressure should consult a doctor before use.
2. How much Mulethi should I consume daily?
Typically, 1-3 grams of Mulethi powder per day is considered safe for adults.
3. Can Mulethi help with weight loss?
Mulethi supports metabolism but should be combined with a healthy diet and exercise.
Conclusion
Muleti (Mulethi) is not only a valuable medicinal herb but also a promising crop for farmers looking to diversify and boost income. Its extensive health benefits, combined with strong market demand, make Mulethi cultivation a profitable and sustainable agricultural venture.
Whether you are a health-conscious individual or a farmer, understanding Muleti’s potential can open doors to new opportunities in herbal health and agriculture.
