Peppermint and spearmint have been grown in the United States for generations, but in 2010 the nation produced a whopping 8.6 million pounds of the breath-fresheners. Here are some more fun facts about mint:

Peppermint

• The top 5 peppermint-producing states are Oregon, Washington and Idaho with more than 1 million pounds each, followed by Indiana, California and Wisconsin. (2010)
• The four varieties of peppermint are Black Mitcham, the original selection from the wild, and three variations: Todd’s Mitcham, Murray Mitcham and Robert’s Mitcham.
• Peppermint is one of the oldest and best tasting home remedies for indigestion.
• In 2010, the United States harvested 71,300 acres of pepperrmint.

Spearmint

• The top 5 spearmint-producing states is Washington with more than 1 million pounds, followed by Oregon, Indiana, Idaho and Michigan. (2010)
• Native spearmint is used to flavor toothpaste and dental hygiene products, whereas Scotch spearmint has a milder, more pleasant taste and is used in chewing gum and candies.
• In 2010, the United States harvested 18,600 acres of spearmint.

More Minty Fresh Facts

• Mint is grown for the oils it produces in specialized glands on the leaves and stems. This oil is recovered by distilling the harvested plants using steam.
• The Romans believed eating mint would increase intelligence. The scent of mint was also supposed to stop a person from losing his temper, and royal ambassadors carried mint sprigs in their pockets.
• Mint is shallow-rooted and requires loose-textured soils for good root penetration and growth. It requires 60 inches of rainfall for optimum growth and fertility.

Sources: National Agricultural Statistics Service, Purdue University Cooperative Extension Service