Peppermint is also known by the names Mint, Balm Mint, Curled Mint, Lamb Mint, and Brandy Mint. The plant is found throughout Europe, in moist areas, along stream banks and in waste lands. Mint is one of the most ancient of all health herbs. Ancient Athenians would rub the leaves of mint on their arms to improve their endurance. The Greeks and Romans crowned themselves with Peppermint at their feasts, and adorned their tables with its sprays. They also flavored both their sauces and their wines with its essence. Two species of mint were used for health benefits by the ancient Greek physicians, but some writers doubt whether either was the modern Peppermint, though there is evidence that Mentha piperita was cultivated by the Egyptians. It is mentioned in the Icelandic Pharmacopoeias of the thirteenth century, but only came into general use in the medicine of Western Europe about the middle of the eighteenth century. Today, the United States is the most important producers of Peppermint and Peppermint oil. The primary chemical constituents of Peppermint include essential oils (menthol, menthone, methyl acetate, limonene, pulegone), tannins, flavonoids, choline, and potassium. Peppermint leaves contain about 0.5-4% volatile oil that is composed of 50-78% free menthol and 5-20% menthol combined with other constituents.

Peppermint is an excellent carminative, having a relaxing effect on the muscles of the digestive system, combats flatulence, and stimulates bile and digestive juice flow. It can be used to help support intestinal colic, flatulent dyspepsia and associated complaints. The volatile oil in Peppermint acts as a mild anesthetic to the stomach wall, which allays feelings of nausea and the desire to vomit. This herb has long been known to help support nausea and vomiting of pregnancy, and travel sickness. Peppermint can also be used in supporting complaints of the bowels. It is a traditional support for fevers, colds and digestion. As an inhalant, this herb is used as temporary support for nasal catarrh. Where headaches are associated with digestion, Peppermint may help. As a nervine, it supports anxiety and tension. In painful menstrual periods, it supports the pain and eases associated tension. Externally, it can be used to help support itching, inflammations, and a variety of respiratory complaints. Peppermint oil is also a great expectorant.

Caraway, also known as Kummel, Oleum Cari and Oleum Carvi, is the name of a plant that grows in Europe, Asia, and the United States. It is about two feet high, and has white or pink flowers. Holland is the leading exporter of Caraway, with Egypt, Morocco and Germany also involved in its cultivation. The most valuable part of the Caraway plant is its tiny, egg-shaped seeds. Caraway Seeds are good to eat, especially in rye bread. They are also used in making some kinds of cake and cheese. Caraway Seed has a sweet but slightly biting flavor and an aromatic, spicy aroma. The oil from the Caraway Seed is used in making health products. It is surprising that this oil can be useful both as a stimulant and as an anesthetic. It is believed that Caraway Seed has been used in Europe longer than any other spice.

For hundreds of years, Caraway Seed can be been used as a herb that can be used for many disorders of the digestive system, including constipation, irritable bowel syndrome, colic, heartburn, indigestion, flatulence and dyspepsia, for which it combines well with Peppermint. It can also be used as a gargle for laryngitis and in the ease of the symptoms of coughs and the common cold. Caraway Seed has been studied for its possible anti-infective properties and its positive effects on the digestion of irritation sufferers.

Fennel Seed can be used to help support coughs and coughs, and as a tonic for intestinal tract and female genitals. It is also an effective lactation aid.

Fennel is also a supportive for digestive problems, such as mild spasms in the stomach or intestines, a feeling of fullness, and intestinal gas; and in Asian health, it can be used to help support anemia, bloating, heartburn, vomiting, diarrhea, hernia, skin problems, and repeated bouts of intense thirst. Its effectiveness for these complaints has not, however, been scientifically verified.

Fennel stimulates movement of food through the stomach and intestines; in higher doses it helps reduce intestinal spasms. Lab experiments have revealed substances in Fennel that show an ability to dry up respiratory phlegm and disinfect. The part of the fennel plant used for health benefits is the dried seed and its oil. Fennel first grew in the Mediterranean region, then spread to England, Germany, and Argentina. Today, it also grows in Iran, Iraq, and China. The plant's scientific name is from the Latin "foenum," which means hay. This name evolved into "Fanculum" during the Middle Ages, later becoming "Fenkel," and finally "Fennel."

TerraVita is an exclusive line of premium-quality, natural source products that use only the finest, purest and most potent ingredients found around the world. TerraVita is hallmarked by the highest possible standards of purity, potency, stability and freshness. All of our products are prepared with the highest elements of quality control, from raw materials through the entire manufacturing process, up to and including the moment that the bottles or bags are sealed for freshness and shipped out to you. Our highest possible standards are certified by independent laboratories and backed by our personal guarantee.

TerraVita exists to meet and ensure your family's health and wellness without the harmful effects or chemicals and prescription medications. We strive to make all of our products affordable and reliable and are constantly searching the market to maintain our affordability and to look for new ways to serve you and the ones you love. TerraVita has become a trusted household name for many families and can bring you and yours the very best herbal supplements, blends, teas and spices that are on the market today.

TerraVita is packed in tamper-proof, food-grade, recyclable containers.

ZooScape is proud to be the exclusive distributor of TerraVita teas, herbs and supplements in the United States, Canada and around the world. Please direct all wholesale and bulk inquiries to 1-844-449-0444.

• Traditionally used to help support indigestion, constipation, irritable bowel syndrome, colic, heartburn, flatulence and more.

Caraway, also known as Kummel, Oleum Cari and Oleum Carvi, is the name of a plant that grows in Europe, Asia, and the United States. It is about two feet high, and has white or pink flowers. Holland is the leading exporter of Caraway, with Egypt, Morocco and Germany also involved in its cultivation. The most valuable part of the Caraway plant is its tiny, egg-shaped seeds. Caraway Seeds are good to eat, especially in rye bread. They are also used in making some kinds of cake and cheese. Caraway Seed has a sweet but slightly biting flavor and an aromatic, spicy aroma. The oil from the Caraway Seed is used in making health products. It is surprising that this oil can be useful both as a stimulant and as an anesthetic. It is believed that Caraway Seed has been used in Europe longer than any other spice.

For hundreds of years, Caraway Seed can be been used as a herb that can be used for many disorders of the digestive system, including constipation, irritable bowel syndrome, colic, heartburn, indigestion, flatulence and dyspepsia, for which it combines well with Peppermint. It can also be used as a gargle for laryngitis and in the ease of the symptoms of coughs and the common cold. Caraway Seed has been studied for its possible anti-infective properties and its positive effects on the digestion of irritation sufferers.

Caraway is well-known as a flavoring agent for rye bread, pastries, and adult drinks. It also has a health history going back some 5,000 years, and was cultivated in ancient Egypt. Both the aromatic seeds and the oil of caraway, a biennial plant native to Europe, can be used to support health. The oil is taken from the dried, ripe fruit of the plant (called the seeds).

Potential Health Benefits

Commission E endorses caraway oil and seed for helping support upset stomach, bloating, and fullness. The commission also praised caraway for its antispasmotic qualities and ability to disinfect. Folklore credits caraway with the ability to help improve lactation in nursing mothers, a use that the commission didn't address.

Scientific Evidence

The chemicals limonene and carvone are credited by researchers for caraway's ability to calm the smooth muscles of the digestive system. A 1996 double-blind, placebo- controlled study in Germany found that a mixture of caraway and peppermint oil was more effective at supporting indigestion than a placebo. On the whole, "Modern scientific studies are few and far between," writes rejuvenateth writer Steven B. Karch, M.D., who adds "Immunity Boosting effects have been demonstrated in laboratory animals, but not in humans."

How to Use the Herb

The daily dosage for caraway oil is 3-6 drops, in 2 divided doses. For seeds, a daily dose of 1.5-6.0 grams is recommended. Freshly crushed seeds can be used in infusions with 2-3 teaspoonfuls per cup of boiling water; steep for at least 10 minutes.

Caraway has an anise-like flavor that is considered pungent. Also known as Persian Cumin and Meridian Fennel, Caraway is often used in spice blends or on its own for soups, breads, potatoes, borscht and other Mediterranean and European cuisine.

Caraway
Carum carvi L.

Family: Apiaceae.

Other Names: Carvi (French); Kümmel (German); carvi, cumino tedesco (Italian); alcaravea (Spanish).

Description: Caraway is a sparse biennial herb with compound, feathery leaves and small white flowers arranged in umbels. The small dry fruits are dark brown and somewhat sickle-shaped.

Origin: The herb is indigenous to Central Europe, the Mediterranean region and Asia. It is cultivated in many parts of the world.

Parts Used: Dried ripe fruits, known as "caraway seed" (Carvi fructus) and the essential oil (Carvi aetheroleum).

Therapeutic Category: Carminative, stomachic, spasmolytic, expectorant.

Uses and Properties: The main use is to help support dyspepsia, digestive issues and flatulence in adults and children (including babies). Caraway is added to laxatives (to help avoid griping) and included in cough mixtures. Numerous other beneficial effects are claimed: appetite stimulant, breath deodorant, expectorant and tonic.

Active Ingredients: The activity of caraway is ascribed to the volatile oil, of which (+)-carvone is the main constituent (45-65%), together with smaller quantities of limonene, dihydrocarvone, carveol, and others. Fruits contain 2-7% essential oil, up to 20% fatty oil, 13% polysaccharides, phenylpropanoids (caffeic acid, chlorogenic acid), flavonoids and flavonoiglycosides (quercetin, isoquercitrin) and traces of furanocoumarins (bergapten).

Health Effects: The fruit and the essential oil have proven spasmolyric and anti-germ activity. The stomachic and carminative effects are ascribed to the essential oil. Caraway is considered to be one of the most promising of all carminative herbs (including aniseed, coriander and fennel).

Notes: Caraway fruits have been a popular spice since ancient times. They are still widely used to flavour bread, cake, cheese, sauerkraut and adult drink (Kümmel).

Status: Pharm.; Comm. E+ (fruit and oil); ESCOP 3 (fruit).

Preparation and Dosage: The fruits or the volatile oil are included in mixtures or taken on their own (the fruits may be chewed). A daily dose of 3 - 6 drops of the essential oil is recommended (taken with some sugar), or 1.5 - 6 g of freshly crushed fruits (taken internally in the form of infusions or other preparations). Fruits are often included in tea mixtures.



Medicinal Usage

The roots, leaves, and seeds are all useful. The roots with a flavor suggesting a mix of parsnips and carrots, can be boiled as a vegetable. Use young shoots and leaves cooked with other vegetables or chopped in salads. The seeds, of course, are the familiar little flavor morsels scattered through a loaf of ryebread. They are good in sauerkraut, cheeses, apple sauce, soups, salad dressings, and apple pie. Caraway seeds contain small amounts of protein and B vitamins.

The seeds are diuretic, carminative, astringent, disinfectant, and galactogenic. In India, a bath of the seeds can be used to help support swellings of the womb, as a poultice for hemorrhoids, and as an eyewash. Combined with laxative herbs, caraway seeds will help avoid griping. Rheumatic pains are lessened with an external wash made with the seeds. The seeds are chewed to help support toothache, and a tea can be used to help support pleurisy.

The main constituents of the oil are carvone and limonene. The oil is disinfectant, antispasmodic, and antihistaminic.

General Herb Information

Caraway is a biennial herb native to Europe and Western Asia, widely naturalized in North America. Of thirty species of Eurasian origin, only Carum carvi is grown in gardens. Caraway grows to a height of 2 1/2 feet. The leaves are finely divided, resembling those of carrots. White, sometimes pink, flowers are borne on terminal or lateral compound umbels. The roots are thick and carrotlike. The seeds (fruits) are crescent shaped and about three-sixteenths of an inch long. Each half of the fruit (mericap) contains one seed and six oil tubes (vittae). It flowers from May to August.

Caraway is easily grown from seed sown in early spring or autumn. Seed sown in September will flower and produce seed the following summer. In the first year, an annual cover crop such as dill or coriander can be planted along with caraway. Caraway will grow rapidly after cover crops are harvested. Side dress with compost or seasoned manure in the fall or following spring to help speed growth. Sometimes caraway matures in the third summer of growth. Thin seedlings to stand at six-inch spacings. Four to eight pounds of seed will sow an acre.

Caraway likes full sun and will grow well in a dry heavy clay soil containing a fair amount of humus. Soil pH can range from 6 to 7.5. Cultivate plants when young to remove competing grasses. An acre may produce about half a ton of seed.

Harvest as soon as the fruits begin to ripen to minimize shattering, which causes caraway to self-sow and possibly become weedy. Seeds may ripen from June to August of the second year. Place harvested plants on a ground cloth to avoid seed loss.

Name

Carum carvi, L. (Umbelliferae), commonly called caraway seed. In French, it is Cumin des pres or Carvi; in German, Wisenkümmel or Kummel.

Source

Caraway is a biennial that flowers from May through June. It is native to Europe and Northern Asia where it grows in the grasslands and mountainous regions. The medically active components of the plant are contained in an oil extracted from the dried seeds.

History

The name is said to come from the Arabic, karawiya. Caraway was cultivated in ancient Egypt, and was probably used before then. The health use of caraway seeds is mentioned in the Bible. In Shakespeare's time, the roots were eaten as vegetables, and traditional herbalists recommended caraway to help improve digestion. Shakespeare even mentioned caraway in the Merry Wives of Windsor. Seeds were thrown at newly married couples to give them good luck. Caraway seeds have been used to make liqueurs ever since the process of alcoholic distillation was invented.

Traditional Support Uses

Antispasmodic, carminative, rubefacient, and to help promote appetite. Caraway was also used to help support menstrual cramps and promote the flow of breast milk.

Commission 13 Recommendations

Caraway can be used to help support abdominal bloating, dyspepsia (upset stomach), and digestive concerns.


Possible Effects

Volatile oils from plants can be divided into two groups. Caraway oil belongs to the group containing mostly terpenoid compounds (along with camphor oil, cardamon oil, citronella, juniper, lemon, orange, pine, sandalwood, spearmint and even turpentine, among others). The two most important components of caraway oil are called carvone and limonene. Modern scientific studies are few and far between, but in a double-blind, placebo- controlled study, mixtures of caraway and peppermint (a European formulation called Enteroplant) were more effective at supporting indigestion than was the placebo. Immunity-boosting effects have been demonstrated in laboratory animals, but not in humans. Nor has any clinical study ever confirmed traditional herbalist claims that caraway oil could increase the flow of breast milk or decrease menstrual cramping.

Dosage

Teas can be made from crushed leaves (three teaspoons infused in one-half cup of water) or seeds (one teaspoon of finely crushed seeds allowed to steep in freshly boiled water for 15 minutes). The daily dosage of caraway seeds is 1.5 to 6 grams. If the oil is being used, the recommended dose is three to six drops per day.

The scientist Cullen regarded Caraway as a strong carminative. It is stimulant and aromatic. It has been recommended in the form of poultices for swellings in the breast and the testicles. It is one of the four hot seeds. It can be used in an infusion injected into the external auditory duct, or in the form of tea in cases of tympanit is, leucorrhea, windy colics and amenorrhea. It is frequently used by veterinarians. Essence of Caraway has sometimes been used as a stimulant and slight rubefacient in the form of liniment. The powder of the fruit was a component of Caraway plaster formerly, applied to the epigastrium to fortify the stomach.

Caraway is a two-in-one plant. The bright green, feathery leaves have a mild flavor; somewhere between that of parsley and dill, while the seeds, a spice, have a strong aroma and pungent taste. The plant is grown commercially for its seed in northern Europe, the United States, and North Africa.

History

The plant was extensively used by the Romans and was well established in English kitchens in the Middle Ages, when it was cooked with fruit, especially spit-roast apples, and in cakes and bread. The leaves were chopped into soups and salads. In Germany and Austria - still the prime users of the plant - the seeds were cooked with vegetables, especially cabbage and its preserved form, sauerkraut.

Characteristics

A biennial, the plant grows to a height of up to 24 inches, with a spread of 12 inches, and has thick, tapering roots rather like those of parsnip. The leaves resemble those of the carrot in shape. The flowers, in umbellifer clusters, are white tinged with pink and appear in midsummer. The pointed-oval seeds are dark brown, almost black.

Growing Tips

The seeds are sown outdoors in early fall. They like a good soil and partial shade. They should be harvested in the second year, just before they ripen. Hang them upside down to dry, the heads tied into a paper bag to catch the falling seeds.

How to Use

The leaves may be used in salads and soups, the seeds in baked goods, in dumplings, cream cheese, and meat dishes such as goulash.

Traditionally the seeds are used in potpourri and scented clothes bags to repel moths. When crushed they are very pungent but will give an unusual fragrance to soap and toilet waters. The essential oil can also be used commercially to perfume soaps and toilet water. When chewed the seeds will sweeten the breath.

Health-wise,caraway can be used to help support colic in babies and flatulence in adults. Its calming effects on the bowels are based in its anti-spasmodic activity on the bowel's muscular wall. Adding some caraway seeds to an herbal tea will help fight a cough or cold.

The seed-like fruits of the caraway plant (Carum carvi), native to Europe, were used as a tonic to warm the stomach, to help support flatulence, coughs, headaches, colic and frenzy, and as a potent antidote against the bite and sting of poisonous animals and insects. It was also believed that caraway seeds were a sure protection against loss of hair. Oil of caraway and sugar in alcohol was used to help support labor pains.

General Herb Information

Caraway - (Carum Carvi).

Propagation: By seed; germinates easily; self-sows year after year; do not transplant because of long tapering root and tiny fibers; thin out seedlings or pinch off at ground.

Nature of Plant: Grown for its savory seeds, feathery foliage and delicate, creamy white umbels of flowers, resembles Queen Anne's lace; if not wanted for seed, the 2-foot flowering stems lend themselves to graceful flower arrangements.

Spacing of Mature Plants: 12 inches.

Cultural Requirements: Sow seed thinly in dry, light soil in full sun; since it is a biennial, it will not produce a crop the first season if sown in spring, but will grow to 8 inches, the bright green cluster of carrotlike leaves forming a beautiful rosette; if seeds are sown in autumn, a harvest can be made in early summer and spillage of seed will produce another crop the following year.

Uses

Leaf: (Culinary) In salads and boiled in soup.

Seed: (Culinary) In rye bread, cake, cheese, German sauerkraut, apple pie, baked apples, German and Hungarian cabbage soups, goulash, in spiced beets, and sugar-coated for confectionery, munched after meals as supportive of indigestion; (Industrial) in oil for mouth wash, in perfume, Kümmel and other liqueurs, perfuming soap, in confectionery; (Health) in oil for colic, to disguise flavors, to help correct nauseating and griping effects, for skin rashes, to stimulate digestion. Root-boiled as vegetables.

Modern studies tend to confirm traditional claims that caraway oil, especially when it is combined with peppermint oil, can support stomach upset. Other claims remain unsubstantiated, but given the extremely low toxicity of caraway oil, there is no reason not to try it. Even if taking caraway does provide support for stomach upset, persistent symptoms require medical evaluation.

Often called by its German name, kümmel or kuemmel, this plant's crescent-shaped seeds are reputed to strengthen the memory and to help avoid lovers from being fickle. The ancient Greeks prescribed caraway tea for pale young girls in the belief that it would bring color to their cheeks. Caraway seeds flavor kümmel liqueurs, which many people make themselves by steeping 2 tablespoons crushed caraway seeds and 1 cup powdered sugar in 1 pint brandy. This mixture is shaken daily for a week, after which it is strained and ready to drink. Caraway tea is believed to help stimulate appetite and digestion, to promote the onset of menstruation, to help support uterine cramps, and to help increase lactation. It can also be tried to help support flatulent colic in infants and as a stomach settler for those who have taken nausea-inducing supplements.

Plant Facts and Growing Tips

Plant: Biennial, hardy to -30°F (-34°C). It has delicate, lacy foliage, similar to that of the carrot, which grows on a hollow stem. The white, carrot-shaped root is sometimes eaten as a vegetable. Flat, umbrella-like clusters of greenish white flowers appear in May and June on stems that rise above the foliage. The seeds (fruit) are dark brown, oblong, and flattened. You must gather them after they have ripened but before they fall to the ground.

Height: 2 feet.

Soil: Neutral, well drained.

Exposure: Full sun.

Propagation: By seeds planted 1/4 inch deep during the third or fourth lunar phase in fall or spring. Germination is slow. Fall sowing will yield plants the following year. Spring planting will delay seed formation until the second year.

Care: Keep plants 8 inches apart. The seeds ripen unevenly, and care must be taken to harvest them regularly. In cold climates, protect the plant with mulch in winter.

Part Used for Tea: Seeds.

Taste: Warm, sweet, bit ing.

How to Brew

Seeds - By Infusion: Grind or crush 1 teaspoon seed. Cover with 1 cup boiling water and steep to taste.

Seeds - By Decoction: Use 2 teaspoons seeds to 1 cup boiling water. Steep for 10 minutes. Strain.

Toby's Tummy Tea

Toby Chamberlain of California, a distributor of little vellum tea bags for those who grow and package their own teas, recommends this blend:

• 1 teaspoon dried alfalfa leaves
• 1 teaspoon dried peppermint leaves
• 1/2 teaspoon crushed caraway seeds

Infuse all ingredients in 1 cup boiling water. Steep 5 to 8 minutes, or to taste.

TerraVita is an exclusive line of premium-quality, natural source products that use only the finest, purest and most potent ingredients found around the world. TerraVita is hallmarked by the highest possible standards of purity, potency, stability and freshness. All of our products are prepared with the highest elements of quality control, from raw materials through the entire manufacturing process, up to and including the moment that the bottles or bags are sealed for freshness and shipped out to you. Our highest possible standards are certified by independent laboratories and backed by our personal guarantee.

TerraVita exists to meet and ensure your family's health and wellness without the harmful effects or chemicals and prescription medications. We strive to make all of our products affordable and reliable and are constantly searching the market to maintain our affordability and to look for new ways to serve you and the ones you love. TerraVita has become a trusted household name for many families and can bring you and yours the very best herbal supplements, blends, teas and spices that are on the market today.

TerraVita is packed in tamper-proof, food-grade, recyclable containers.

ZooScape is proud to be the exclusive distributor of TerraVita teas, herbs and supplements in the United States, Canada and around the world. Please direct all wholesale and bulk inquiries to 1-844-449-0444.

Bianca Rosa is an exclusive line of premium-quality natural products sourced from only the finest and purest ingredients from around the world. Bianca Rosa is hallmarked by the highest possible standards of purity, stability and freshness. All Bianca Rosa products are prepared with the highest level of quality control, from the raw materials used through the entire manufacturing process, up to and including the moment that the finished product is sealed for freshness and shipped to you. Our highest possible standards backed by our personal guarantee.

Bianca Rosa makes all products as affordable as possible and we are constantly searching the market to maintain our affordability and to look for new ways to serve you. Bianca Rosa has been a trusted household name for many families throughout the world since the 1990s. Bianca Rosa is packed in tamper-proof, recyclable containers.

ZooScape is proud to be the exclusive distributor of all Bianca Rosa products, including creams, salves and oils in the United States, Canada and around the world. Please direct all wholesale and bulk inquiries to 1-844-449-0444.

Larissa Veronica is an exclusive line of natural premium-quality products that use only the purest and finest ingredients from around the world. Larissa Veronica is hallmarked by the highest possible standards of purity, stability and freshness. All of our products are prepared with the highest elements of quality control, from raw materials through the entire manufacturing process, up to and including the moment that the bottles or bags are sealed for freshness and shipped out to you. Our highest possible standards are certified by independent laboratories and backed by our personal guarantee.

Larissa Veronica strives to make all products affordable and we are constantly researching the market to maintain our affordability and to look for new ways to serve you and the ones you love. Larissa Veronica has become a trusted household name for many families.

Larissa Veronica is packed in tamper-proof, food-grade, recyclable containers.

ZooScape is proud to be the exclusive distributor of all Larissa Veronica spices, snacks, foods and ingredients in the United States, Canada and around the world. Please direct all wholesale and bulk inquiries to 1-844-449-0444.