Mint vs Peppermint: Key Differences, Health Benefits & Culinary Uses
Posted by Suryamasale on 3rd Feb 2026
Mint and peppermint are staples in Indian kitchens, herbal remedies, and everyday wellness routines. They are fresh, fragrant, and refreshing. Even though you can use them interchangeably, they aren't the same herb. They have distinct tastes, menthol content, nutritional profiles, and ideal uses that impact flavor and health benefits.
For us at Surya Masale, ingredients matter as much as tradition. We strive to understand what goes into your food, helping you make better choices. In this blog, we have discussed the differences between mint and peppermint so you can decide which to use and why.
What is Mint (Spearmint)?
Spearmint (Mentha spicata) is commonly known as mint in most Indian households. It has a sweet, mildly cool flavor and a pleasant aroma that blends seamlessly into food.
Key Characteristics of Mint:
- Lower menthol content (around 0.5%).
- Soft, sweet, and refreshing taste.
- Bright green leaves with a smooth texture.
- Gentle on the palate and stomach.
Common Culinary Uses:
- Mint chutney and raita
- Lemon mint water
- Fresh garnishes for chaats, biryanis, and salads
- Herbal teas and cooling summer drinks
Balance is key in Indian cuisine. Mint is ideal when you want freshness without overpowering heat.
What is Peppermint?
A natural hybrid of spearmint and watermint, peppermint (Mentha × piperita) contains significantly more menthol, giving it a strong cooling effect and sharp taste.
Key Characteristics of Peppermint:
- High menthol content (30-40%)
- Intense, cooling, slightly spicy flavor
- Darker green leaves
- Strong aroma and medicinal properties
Common Uses:
- Digestive teas
- Natural remedies for gas, nausea, and headaches
- Peppermint oil for aromatherapy
- Toothpaste, balms, and wellness products
Rather than everyday cooking, peppermint is widely used for therapeutic and medicinal purposes.
Mint vs. Peppermint: A Quick Comparison
| Feature | Mint (Spearmint) | Peppermint |
|---|---|---|
| Menthol Content | Low | High |
| Taste | Sweet and Mild | Strong and Sharp |
| Best For | Cooking, Drinks, Chutneys | Digestion, Remedies |
| Cooling Effect | Gentle | Intense |
| Suitable for Daily Use | Yes | In Moderation |
Nutritional Value of Mint and Peppermint
Both mint and peppermint are low in calories and rich in essential nutrients and plant compounds.
- Calories: ~44 kcal
- Vitamin A: Beneficial for eye health and immunity.
- Vitamin C: Boosts immunity and skin health.
- Iron: Supports oxygen transport in the body.
- Calcium and Magnesium: Bone and muscle health.
- Antioxidants: Help fight oxidative stress.
While peppermint contains higher concentrations of menthol and essential oils, spearmint offers more diet-friendly freshness for regular consumption.
Health Benefits of Mint and Peppermint
Mint:
- Helps in digestion and reduces bloating
- Natural mouth freshener
- Helps cool the body in hot weather
- Supports gut health
- May reduce mild nausea
Peppermint:
- Relieves indigestion and gas
- Helps reduce headaches and sinus congestion
- May ease symptoms of IBS
- Natural antibacterial properties
- Promotes relaxation when used in teas or oils
Which One Should You Use?
- For cooking and daily meals, use mint (spearmint). Additionally, mint is gentler for kids and elders.
- Peppermint is ideal for digestion and wellness. Use them for herbal teas and oils.
Finally,
You can use each of these herbs to their full potential by understanding the differences between mint and peppermint- whether it is flavor, digestion, or wellness.
At Surya Masale, ingredient purity is key. Therefore, we focus on ingredient purity and traditional wisdom to offer herbs and spices you can trust. Shop for Surya Mint Leaves at the best price at Surya Masale and make better food choices.
FAQs
Are mint and peppermint the same?
No, peppermint is a hybrid variety with much higher menthol content, whereas mint (spearmint) is mild and sweeter.
Which is better for digestion- mint or peppermint?
Peppermint is more effective for digestion due to its strong menthol content.
Can mint be used daily?
Yes, mint is safe and can be consumed in daily food and drinks.
Is peppermint safe for children?
If consumed in small amounts, peppermint is generally safe for children.
Does mint help with acidity?
Yes, mint has natural cooling properties that help soothe acidity and indigestion.
