Mint- One Of The Most Powerful Healing Herbs
The origins of mint are widely debated, made all the more complicated by the many species that are similar and naturally hybridize. Currently, mint grows throughout the world, though it thrives in cooler, damp regions. The mint that is commonly used in cooking belongs to the Lamiaceae family (aka Mint family), not to be confused with another popular herb used in Asian cuisine, called Vietnamese mint, which does not actually belong to the mint family.
In Asian cuisine, mint is used predominantly in salads, appetizers and desserts, particularly in Thailand, Laos and Vietnam. Most Thai salads served in the native country feature mint as a bright accent to the pungent flavors dominant in Thai cuisine. While Vietnam has its own herb commonly referred to as Vietnamese mint, they do in fact incorporate regular mint in salads, noodle dishes and fresh rolls as well.
Mint has a wealth of health benefits that include the improvement of digestion, breath freshener, anti-bacterial properties, astringent properties, anti-cancer, aids in reducing fevers, ulcers and a host of other illnesses. Add fresh mint leaves to any Asian salad for an antioxidant boost.