Spearmint is a native of the Mediterranean area. A hardy perennial herb, Spearmint reaches about 1 meter (3 feet) in height. It has characteristic lance-shaped leaves with pink or lilac-colored flowers.

Few herbs produce as many variants as the mint family and each tastes, smells and acts a little bit different. Spearmint is delightful, much less harsh and pungent than the more commonly used Peppermint. This is due to the fact that it contains very little menthol. Spearmint has thus been more frequently used for culinary purposes rather than medicinal ones. However, that does not mean to suggest that it has no therapeutic uses. The ancients valued it highly as a herb for students and scholars. They thought a head wreath of Spearmint a fitting crown for academics and poets, to help them concentrate and keep a clear head. The Romans liked it as a strewing herb to scent the air with a nice, fresh aroma. Spearmint is also much better for cosmetic use than the more pungent peppermint. It is very refreshing, relaxing and uplifting, for example in a bath, where Peppermint would make one feel freezing, even if the water was hot. Spearmint is not as stimulating as Peppermint, which makes it also suitable for use at night. In fact, it is said to bring happy dreams and a restful sleep.