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You wouldn't be expected to know that as far back in history 10,000 years ago, Peppermint was thought of as more of a medication, than a confection with traditional ties to the Christmas season.
This aromatic plant, properly named "menthe piperita", was first described by Carolus Linnalus in 1753. He had collected specimens of the plant in England, and defined it as a species. But, it was later classified as a hybrid instead, a cross between the watermint and spearmint. It grows from two to 3 feet tall, and produces tiny purple flowers, which are commonly harvested by honey bees. Delicious peppermint honey is popular result of that harvest.
Peppermint is indigenous of Europe, but is now cultivated all over the world. It flowers from mid to late summer. The leaves and flowering tops are collected as soon as the flowers begin to open and can be dried. Though peppermint can grow almost anywhere, with few exceptions, it prefers moist habitats, such as drainage ditches and creek sides. Since it is a hybrid, it's usually sterile, meaning that it produces no seeds. In the Great Lakes region of the United States it thrives un-encouraged, and is actually considered to be invasive. It's considered better grown as a cultivated crop.
Peppermint has a long tradition as of being used for medicinal use. Its aroma is considered to enhance memory; applying it to the forehead and temples often reduces headache pain, and it soothes coughs and sore throats, not to mention, indigestion. It is believed that peppermint may have anti-bacterial, anti-fungal, and anti-viral qualities. It's used as aromatherapy (in the form of essential peppermint oil); said to have a calming effect, and is often added to soaps and shampoos. And, it's used to treat skin irritations, anxiety associated with depression, nausea, and other related conditions. Plus, it's somewhat of a muscle relaxant.
You're, of course, accustomed to the clean fresh menthol aroma and refreshing taste of peppermint often added to toothpaste, chewing gum, and tea. And, have no doubt experienced relief from cold symptoms as a result of using chest rubs and other over-the-counter treatments containing peppermint. It works as an expectorant for coughs, due to the cool 'Menthol' ingredient, too.
But, peppermint is probably best known as the popular flavor in a variety of candies; from the well known candy cane to chocolate covered peppermint cream patties. Popsies Popcorn and Sweets shop stocks multiple varieties of peppermint candies, some dating back many years. If you're nearby, a visit to this nostalgic and cozy candy shop will transport you back to a time when life was simpler - and easier to comprehend. Memories will be stirred, and emotions relived... and they'll be put in their proper perspective. There's something undefined, but magical, about this little candy shop that has a positive affect upon the thoughts and mood of every visitor, at least to some degree. And on top of that, serving sweets from Popsies identifies you as a person who doesn't settle when it comes to the quality and uniqueness of candy served to your guests and family members.
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