Plants - Mint - Curly

Curly mint is a tall variety with thick upright stalks and tightly clustered, fluted leaves. The bright green leaves are pointed with curled edges. Curly mint has a fragrant spearmint aroma and a sweet flavor. Curly mint does not have as strong a flavor as peppermint. As with most varieties of mint, it is recommended that it be used when fresh. Curly mint, like all spearmints, is high in vitamin A, with 1/4 cup providing nearly 35% of the daily value for both men and women. The spearmint variety also contains nominal amounts of vitamin C and B-complex. Curly mint is also high in iron and manganese. Spearmint can be used medicinally just as peppermint can be, as they have very similar components and benefits. Curly mint can be steeped in hot water for tea or the oils can be extracted from the leaves to use as a remedy for headaches, heartburn and indigestion.