330 PHYSICAL HERBS. 



18. PENNY-ROYAL MINT MENTHA 



PULEGIUM 



Is a native of watery places in various parts of 

 Europe. It is easily propagated by parting the 

 roots in spring. They succeed best in a strong 

 moist soil, and when planted on the edges of rivu- 

 lets, ponds, &c. 



Penny-royal has a warm pungent flavour, some- 

 what similar to mint, but more acrid, and less 

 agreeable both in taste and smell. It possesses the 

 general properties of the other mints ; but is sup- 

 posed to be of less efficacy as a stomachic. This 

 herb is less frequently used now for medicinal pur- 

 poses than formerly. 



19. PEPPERMINT. MENTHA PIPERITA. 



A native of watery places in various parts of Eng- 

 land. This variety has a more penetrating smell 

 than any of the other mints, and a much stronger 

 and warmer taste. It may be increased with facility 

 by young offset plants or shoots, or by parting the 

 roots in spring, or by planting cuttings during any 

 of the summer months in a moist soil. Peppermint 

 is much cultivated for medicinal purposes, as well 

 as for distillation : its stomachic and carminative 

 qualities render it useful in flatulent colics, hysteric 

 affections, and retchings, in which it acts as a 

 cordial. The essence of peppermint was formerly 

 considered an elegant medicine ; and a cordial is 

 made from this plant, which is by many people 

 much admired. 



