Latin name: Mentha sylvestris

Indian name: Pudina

Habitat: It is cultivated in various parts of the world. It grows wild in Europe, while it is cultivated in Japan, England, France , Italy , U.S.A. , Bulgaria and U.S.S.R. In India , it is cultivated near Jammu and in Tarai region of Uttar Pradesh.

Useful in: Mentha oil is used as carminative, stimulant and flavouring agent. It has mild antiseptic properties too. For the nasal decongestant effect, menthol is considered by U.S.F.D.A. as generally regarded as safe. Mentha oil is used for inhalation in steam as well as topical products and lozenges for its antitussive effects.

Reference: Pharmacognosy by K.KOKATE Page: 273