Spearmint vs. Peppermint: What's the Difference?
Edited by Sawaira Riaz || By Sumera Saeed || Updated on October 17, 2023
Spearmint has a milder flavor; peppermint is more intense and slightly spicier.
Key Differences
Spearmint, known scientifically as Mentha spicata, is a herb that originates from Europe and Asia. Peppermint, on the other hand, is a hybrid plant, a cross between spearmint and watermint. Both plants are members of the mint family and have a characteristic minty aroma.
Sumera Saeed
Oct 17, 2023
Spearmint leaves are bright green, lance-shaped, and have serrated edges. Peppermint leaves are darker and more purple-tinged with a smoother texture. The distinct appearance between the two makes them easily identifiable in gardens or markets.
Sumera Saeed
Oct 17, 2023
In terms of flavor, spearmint offers a milder, sweeter taste, often described as refreshing. Peppermint is more intense, with a spicier kick to it. This difference in taste makes them suitable for different culinary applications.
Sumera Saeed
Oct 17, 2023
Essential oils extracted from spearmint and peppermint are used in a variety of products. Spearmint oil is gentler and is often used in products aimed at children or those with sensitive skin. Peppermint oil has a strong, penetrating scent and can produce a cooling sensation, making it a favorite in many topical ointments.
Sumera Saeed
Oct 17, 2023
Medicinally, both spearmint and peppermint have been used for centuries to aid digestion and soothe stomach issues. However, the menthol in peppermint is more concentrated, which means peppermint can provide more intense relief for certain conditions, while spearmint may be gentler on the system.
Sumera Saeed
Oct 17, 2023
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Comparison Chart
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Spearmint and Peppermint Definitions
Spearmint
A herb with bright green, lance-shaped leaves.
She added fresh spearmint to her iced tea.
Harlon Moss
Oct 17, 2023
Peppermint
A cross between spearmint and watermint.
Peppermint has characteristics from both its parent plants.
Sara Rehman
Oct 17, 2023
Spearmint
A plant originating from Europe and Asia.
Spearmint has been cultivated in European gardens for centuries.
Sara Rehman
Oct 17, 2023
Peppermint
A hybrid mint plant with a spicier, intense flavor.
Peppermint candies are a favorite during the holiday season.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 17, 2023
Spearmint
An essential oil known for its gentler properties.
The lotion, infused with spearmint, was perfect for her sensitive skin.
Aimie Carlson
Oct 17, 2023
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Peppermint
Known for its dark, purple-tinged leaves.
The peppermint plant stood out in the garden with its dark leaves.
Harlon Moss
Oct 17, 2023
Spearmint
A member of the mint family with a milder flavor than peppermint.
For a less intense flavor, she chose spearmint gum.
Sara Rehman
Oct 17, 2023
Peppermint
Used in products for its cooling effects and strong aroma.
The peppermint shampoo gave a refreshing tingle to her scalp.
Aimie Carlson
Oct 17, 2023
Spearmint
Used in culinary dishes for its refreshing taste.
The chef incorporated spearmint into the dessert sauce.
Sara Rehman
Oct 17, 2023
Peppermint
A source of concentrated menthol used for medicinal purposes.
He sipped peppermint tea to soothe his upset stomach.
Sumera Saeed
Oct 17, 2023
Spearmint
An aromatic Eurasian plant (Mentha spicata) in the mint family, having clusters of small purplish flowers and yielding an oil used widely as a flavoring.
Sumera Saeed
May 02, 2017
Peppermint
A hybrid perennial plant (Mentha ×piperita) in the mint family, having small purple or white flowers and downy leaves that yield a pungent oil used as a flavoring and in some medicinal preparations.
Sumera Saeed
May 02, 2017
Spearmint
A herb of the mint family (Mentha spicata), commonly used in herb tea, candy and to treat mild stomach ache.
Sumera Saeed
May 02, 2017
Spearmint
A species of mint (Mentha viridis) growing in moist soil. It vields an aromatic oil. See Mint, and Mentha.
Sumera Saeed
May 02, 2017
Spearmint
Common garden herb having clusters of small purplish flowers and yielding an oil used as a flavoring
Sumera Saeed
May 02, 2017
FAQs
What is spearmint?
Spearmint is a herb native to Europe and Asia, known for its bright green leaves and milder mint flavor.
Sumera Saeed
Oct 17, 2023
How does peppermint differ from spearmint?
Peppermint is a hybrid of spearmint and watermint, with a spicier and more intense flavor.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 17, 2023
Can spearmint and peppermint be used interchangeably in recipes?
While they can be swapped, the flavor intensity varies; spearmint is milder, and peppermint is more intense.
Sumera Saeed
Oct 17, 2023
Which is more common in candies, spearmint or peppermint?
Peppermint is more commonly used in candies due to its strong, refreshing flavor.
Harlon Moss
Oct 17, 2023
Are the essential oils of spearmint and peppermint different?
Yes, spearmint oil is gentler, while peppermint oil offers a strong, cooling sensation.
Aimie Carlson
Oct 17, 2023
Can spearmint aid in digestion?
Yes, both spearmint and peppermint have been traditionally used to aid digestion.
Aimie Carlson
Oct 17, 2023
What cuisines use spearmint in their dishes?
Spearmint is popular in many cuisines, especially in Mediterranean dishes.
Sara Rehman
Oct 17, 2023
Is peppermint always purple?
Not always, but peppermint leaves are typically darker and can have a purple tinge.
Sara Rehman
Oct 17, 2023
Are the medicinal benefits of spearmint and peppermint similar?
They have some overlapping benefits, like aiding digestion, but peppermint's higher menthol concentration can offer more intense relief for certain conditions.
Sara Rehman
Oct 17, 2023
Do spearmint and peppermint have different colors when dried?
Generally, dried spearmint retains a greenish hue, while peppermint may be slightly darker.
Janet White
Oct 17, 2023
What is the main compound in peppermint oil?
The main compound in peppermint oil is menthol.
Sumera Saeed
Oct 17, 2023
Is peppermint stronger than spearmint?
In terms of flavor and menthol content, peppermint is generally stronger than spearmint.
Sumera Saeed
Oct 17, 2023
Which mint is used in mojito cocktails, spearmint or peppermint?
Mojitos traditionally use spearmint.
Harlon Moss
Oct 17, 2023
Are there any skincare products with spearmint?
Yes, spearmint, due to its gentler properties, is often found in skincare products.
Harlon Moss
Oct 17, 2023
Can you grow both spearmint and peppermint at home?
Yes, both mints can be grown at home, but they can be invasive, so it's recommended to plant them in containers.
Sumera Saeed
Oct 17, 2023
Which has a more refreshing taste, spearmint or peppermint?
While both are refreshing, peppermint is considered to have a more intense refreshing flavor.
Aimie Carlson
Oct 17, 2023
Can I use peppermint instead of spearmint in tea?
Yes, but be prepared for a stronger, spicier flavor with peppermint.
Sumera Saeed
Oct 17, 2023
Which mint is commonly found in toothpaste, spearmint or peppermint?
Both can be found, but peppermint is more common due to its intense, fresh flavor.
Sara Rehman
Oct 17, 2023
How does peppermint chocolate taste compared to spearmint chocolate?
Peppermint chocolate is spicier and more intense, while spearmint chocolate is sweeter and milder.
Aimie Carlson
Oct 17, 2023
About Author
Written by
Sumera SaeedSumera is an experienced content writer and editor with a niche in comparative analysis. At Diffeence Wiki, she crafts clear and unbiased comparisons to guide readers in making informed decisions. With a dedication to thorough research and quality, Sumera's work stands out in the digital realm. Off the clock, she enjoys reading and exploring diverse cultures.
Edited by
Sawaira RiazSawaira is a dedicated content editor at difference.wiki, where she meticulously refines articles to ensure clarity and accuracy. With a keen eye for detail, she upholds the site's commitment to delivering insightful and precise content.
