Ruchi Agarwal

Mentha Spicata L.: Chemotypic Variation, Antimicrobial And: Potato Sprout Inhibition Activity of Its Essential Oils Grown in Uttarakhand, India Ruchi Agarwal

The mints, taxonomically known as Lamiaceae or Labiatae, are a family of flowering plants. Mentha spicata (Spear Mint or Spearmint) is a species of mint native to much of Europe and southwest Asia, though its exact natural range is uncertain due to extensive early cultivation. It grows in wet soils. It is an invasive species in the Great Lakes region of North America where it was first sighted in 1843, although it is grown widely across northern India. Spearmint grows well in nearly all temperate climates. Gardeners often grow it in pots or planters due to its invasive spreading roots. The plant prefers partial shade, but can flourish in full sun to mostly shade. Spearmint is best suited to loamy soils with plenty of organic material. Spearmint has also been described as having excellent antioxidant activity; its antioxidant activity was found to be comparable to the synthetic BHT. Due both to its antioxidant activity and its common use in cuisine. The leaves of Mentha spicata are also used to suppress the sprouting nature in potato crop.