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Ingredient guide no. 040

Spearmint

A leafy culinary herb used in drinks, salads, sauces, and botanical infusions.

Categoryherb
Botanical identityMentha spicata
Food formleaves
Flavorsweet, minty, green, cool

What it is

A leafy culinary herb used in drinks, salads, sauces, and botanical infusions.

Plain-language buying tip

Choose spearmint for a softer, sweeter mint profile than peppermint.

Forms and use

Use fresh leaves in tea, salads, yogurt sauces, fruit, and grain dishes; steep dried leaf covered in hot water.

Common forms include fresh leaves, dried leaves, tea blends. Match the form to the job: visible ingredient, even distribution, or a slow infusion you can strain.

Storage

Keep dried spearmint tightly sealed, cool, dark, and dry.

Quick questions

What should I check before buying Spearmint?

Check the stated botanical identity or style when available, the form, and the ingredient list. These details are more useful than relying on a broad category name alone.

Is this guide a product offer?

No. This is culinary editorial information. Leaf & Larder will connect only verified, available products when inventory exists.

Editorial boundary

This guide describes flavor, form, storage, and culinary use. It does not make medical, therapeutic, or supplement claims.

Sources & notes
Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew: Mentha spicata.
USDA SNAP-Ed: Herbs.
Last reviewed: August 15, 2026.